Clay Pit Bucket Tower
historical marker
The Clay Pit Bucket Tower is designated an Austin Landmark in Travis County, Texas. This tower was one of three that supported a cable conveyor system. This system was installed by A.J. Zilker in 1902. Its purpose was to transport clay from pits located south of the Colorado River to a nearby brick-making facility. In 1912, the Butler Brick Company leased Zilker's plant. The company then operated the tower system, continuing its use until 1942. The system's operation ceased primarily due to wartime price controls during World War II, which made the brick plant unprofitable. Today, this tower stands as a tangible reminder of Austin's industrial past and its historical use of local resources for brick production.