EVENT
2nd Saturdays at the Waterworks
Beyond Gravity: Moving Water Uphill
May 9, 2026
1pm–2pm
Join us every second Saturday of the month at 1pm to learn more about history, engineering, archeology, water access and more!
On Saturday, May 9th at 1pm, Martin Perlmutter, Board President/Chairman and Treasurer of the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum, will share an in-depth look at the mechanics of moving water against gravity, from cups and buckets to centrifugal pumps. Learn more about the engineering principles that powered the museum’s giant steam engines, and which still bring clean water access to communities around the world today!
All Second Saturday events take place upstairs in our Overlook Gallery. The presentations are free and open to everyone, including walk-in visitors, space permitting. Please help us monitor capacity by reserving your FREE tickets in advance.
Upcoming Events
Great Engines Hall
The centerpiece of the Waterworks Museum is its collection of steam engines. Three original coal-powered, steam-driven water pumps are preserved at the Museum and are monuments to 19th century technology and innovation. Leavitt, Worthington, and Allis stand in the Great Engines Hall and reach more than 3 stories tall. Walk around each and see the multitude of perfectly engineered parts that pumped million gallons of freshwater a day into the City of Boston.