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What is the Tallest Surviving Masonry Structure in the World?

Published in Building Records 3 mins read

The tallest surviving masonry structure in the world is the Anaconda Smelter Stack, an imposing industrial chimney located in Anaconda, Montana, USA. This colossal structure stands as a testament to early 20th-century industrial engineering and a unique example of large-scale masonry construction.

The Engineering Marvel: Anaconda Smelter Stack

Completed in 1919, the Anaconda Smelter Stack was originally built to disperse fumes from the Anaconda Copper Smelter. Its sheer scale and enduring presence make it a remarkable landmark. The stack's primary function was to vent sulfur dioxide and arsenic fumes from the copper smelting process high into the atmosphere, a common practice at the time to mitigate pollution at ground level, though not without environmental consequences.

This incredible structure boasts an overall height of approximately 585 feet (178.3 meters). This impressive height includes a massive brick chimney that measures 555 feet (169.2 meters) tall, constructed from over 2.4 million bricks. Below the brick chimney, a substantial concrete foundation adds an additional 30 feet (9.1 meters) on its downhill side, contributing to its remarkable total stature. Its construction represented a significant feat of engineering for its era, utilizing traditional masonry techniques on an unprecedented scale for a stack of its kind.

Despite the smelter complex itself being dismantled in the 1980s, the stack was preserved due to its historical significance and unique status as the tallest of its kind still standing. It now serves as a prominent landmark and a symbol of Montana's industrial heritage.

What is Masonry?

Masonry refers to the building of structures from individual units laid in and bound together by mortar. Common masonry materials include:

  • Brick: Fired clay units.
  • Stone: Natural rock, cut or shaped.
  • Concrete Blocks (CMUs): Pre-formed concrete units.
  • Tile: Ceramic or composite units.

The strength and durability of masonry depend on the individual units and the mortar, as well as the skill of the masons. Masonry structures are known for their resilience, thermal mass, and aesthetic appeal.

Key Facts About the Anaconda Smelter Stack

Feature Measurement
Overall Height ~585 feet (178.3 meters)
Brick Chimney Height 555 feet (169.2 meters)
Concrete Foundation Height 30 feet (9.1 meters)
Construction Material Brick and Concrete
Year Completed 1919
Location Anaconda, Montana, USA
Significance Tallest surviving masonry structure in the world

The Anaconda Smelter Stack stands not only as an engineering marvel but also as a historical monument, preserving a piece of industrial history and showcasing the enduring power of masonry construction. For more information, you can explore resources on the Anaconda Smelter Stack.

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