Grain Elevators
Especially in the American midwest and plains states, grain elevators are a mainstay of our agricultural infrastructure. You can find them in many sizes and designs and materials.
I have no information about when this elevator was built but I definitely enjoy this unique concrete structure.
This facility offers numerous modeling ideas. First, a large structure with a small footprint. Second, I think it could easily be scratchbuilt with foam, cardstock, styrene and even wood; coat it with something to resemble concrete. It appears to have been built of block and covered with a concrete shell. Note the reinforcing bands. While it does not appear to be in use, the plant growth around it is a good study of fallow areas found around trackside. The small stand of trees offers a nice contrast to the building.
Note the birds