Elements of the Water Tables

Seven tables organize the Lab's activities.

The Gilbert Table

Classical water science experiments as collected and explained in a books published by A. C. Gilbert in 1920: Archimedes, Bernoulli, Pascal, et al.

The Distribution Table

A working model of the water cycle to trace water from clouds to rivers, through pumps and filters to water towers to bath tubs, fire hydrant and lawn sprinklers.

Fountain Table

Explorations of the spiritual and magical powers water acquired as it marked the beginings of communities and civilizations.

The Eric Sloane Table

Waterwheels, pumps and a canal guided by the illustrations and narratives of Connecticut artist Eric Sloane. Sloane's books celebrate the age of waterpower.

Time lapse video of Panama Canal.

Boat Pond

The geography of boats: working model boats from North, South, East & West. Rafts, sailing boats, wind-up boats and submarines.

The Sand Table

The construction projects that link water and civilizations: irrigation from the Nile, the aqueducts of Rome, the water fortifications of Holland, the Mill River carrying barges to the Whitney Armory.

The value of water

All Water Lab project teach the value of water in an essential practical way: visitors purchase the water they use. Twenty five cents will purchase 100 gallons of water, its current market cost. Experiments in the Lab will teach the quantity and flow of water measurements essential for prudent planning for the future.