The Central Public Library in Denver, Co.
Bensonwood installed the timber derrick in the Gates Western Reading Room
after the building was constructed.
The timber structure is a stylized oil derrick.
Looking up, standing under the derrick.
The Gates Western Reading Room is popular with all library visitors.
The Denver Derrick at the Denver Central Library is a remarkable structure. The 42 ft. tall octagonal tower, with its canted posts, sits in the center of the circular Western Reading Room. Architect Michael Graves wanted a centerpiece for the building reminiscent of Western images (look closely to see a wagon wheel balanced on an oil derrick.) Bensonwood's Beam Team assembled the 12 in. square posts inside a chaotic construction site in close quarters, with just 1-3/8 in. to spare.
