Somehow, even though I have lived in Austin for 4 8 years, I have never before today heard of the Moon Light Towers. Back in 1895, the City of Austin decided to install 31 very tall towers to illuminate the city at night, casting light over circles 3000 feet in diameter. This was apparently common at the time, as fewer, brighter lamps were cheaper and easier than more street lamps. About 17 of the towers still stand. More information: 1, 2, 3. Pictures from a guy who climbed one of them. So now you know. As do I.

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