![Wood Pump c.1780 The wood water pump in front of the Historic Pump House c.1780](https://www.historicodessa.org/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/odessa-pump_0_0.jpg?itok=LYEfBb_B)
The wood water pump in front of the Historic Pump House c.1780 is indicative of the public nature of the center of town. The pump was a necessity for thirsty travelers who otherwise would have had to beg a drink from a resident or purchase it at a livery stable or tavern.