7. Union Square Still Has a Fountain That Advocated For the Temperance Movement

The James Fountain is still in Union Square

Though the former fountain no longer exists, an exquisite bronze sculpture and drinking fountain from 1881, called the James Fountain, lies on the west side of Union Square Park. The purpose of the fountain was to promote the Temperance Movement using the idea that accessible cold drinking water would reduce the public’s desires for alcohol.

A second temperance fountain resides in Tompkins Square Park, and both are among the rare temperance fountains left around the nation.