sentences:  The Erie City Iron Works was contracted in December 1867 to erect a standpipe, which eventually reached a height of , thought to have been the tallest standpipe in the world.John M Kuhn, Esq was hired in 1868 to build the standpipe tower, and Captain James Dunlap was contracted that year to construct the crib work.The foundation for the water works was excavated beginning on 7 April 1868.