Last weekend, a scattering of fireworks lit up the sky above the Imperial County city of Brawley as dozens of people gathered for a final dance beneath the city’s historic water tower.

Construction crews are slated to begin demolishing the Brawley Water Tower — also known affectionately as “El Tanke” — this week over concerns that the deteriorating structure could be a public safety risk. The 90-year-old tower is located on the north side of Hinojosa Park and overlooks a baseball field, a playground and a number of homes.

The move is the culmination of more than over the iconic tower’s future. City officials considered turning it into a historic landmark but ultimately decided to move forward with demolition.

The news has released a flood of memories from residents who grew up or lived

See Full Page