Jumbo, Colchester, Essex Giclée Art Print

High quality art print of Jumbo, a Victorian water tower in Colchester, Essex. Located in the centre of Colchester, just next to the Roman-era Balkerne Gate (seen in the foreground of this original illustration) and the Mercury Theatre, Jumbo is an iconic part of Colchester's skyline, and is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Jumbo was built in 1882/83, and was at the time of its construction the second-largest water tower in England, standing 141 feet tall. Jumbo's height initially drew criticism, with the rector of St Mary's at the Walls reportedly furious at his church being overshadowed. It was Reverend Irvine's letter to the Essex Standard that gave Jumbo its name, a reference to a famous zoo elephant of the time. It didn't take long for the insult to become an affectionate nickname, and an elephant was added to the weathervane atop the tower.

Jumbo provided water to the people of Colchester for a century, before finally ceasing to operate in 1984. Since then, it has been unused - save as a beloved landmark - though plans are now underway, with the building leased to North Essex Heritage for 150 years. Whatever the future holds for Jumbo, the Grade II* listed water tower will no doubt continue to be beloved by the people of Colcheter.

Love Colchester? Looking for Colchester gift ideas? We also offer illustrations of Colchester Castle and St John's Abbey Gate.

This Essex illustration by Rob Wisdom is a high quality Giclée art print on cotton-rich fine art paper.

12x16" print shown. Cropping and title position (if applicable) may differ slightly on 'A' size prints.