Shakespeare - WCTU Drinking Fountain - Holyoke, MA - USA - Etched in Stone on Waymarking.com

Late in the 19th and early in the 20th centuries the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) encouraged their chapters to place drinking fountains in public places to encourage men to drink water and avoid alcohol. A number of these drinking fountains are still in place today. This fountain is in front of the city hall in Holyoke. The dedication on the front says "Dedicated by the Women's Christian Temperance Union To Thirsty Humanity". On the right side, back, and left side there are quotes from Shakespeare and the Bible.

The quote from Shakespeare is found on the right side (facing the fountain) and is very interesting. It's from the play Othello, act 2 scene 3. It is spoken by Cassio during a dialog with Iago.

"O thou invisible spirit of wine, if
thou hast no name to be known
by, let us call thee devil."

On the back is inscribed a quote from The Bible; Isaiah 43:20

"I give waters in the wilderness,
rivers in the desert. To
give drink to my people."

On the left side is inscribed another quote from the Bible; Proverbs 25:28

He whose spirit is without restraint
is like a city that is broken
down and hath no walls.

Address: Corner of Dwight and High Streets Holyoke, MA 01040 Website: [Web Link]

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