Hot Mineral Water
Marlin, Falls County, Texas
Marker Inscription
A well drilled on this site in 1892, in an effort to secure a public water supply, produced 48,000 gallons of hot mineral water daily from an artesian deposit underlying the area. At first believed unfit for human use, analysis proved the water possessed curative powers. On initiative of T. A. Cheeves, Drs. J. W. Cook, J. W. Torbett,and N. D. Buie, a health resort was developed, with a bath house built in 1895, and another well drilled in 1910. Marlin became a Mecca for health-seekers from all parts of the country, providing basis for local prosperity.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
A well drilled in 1892 to find a public water supply instead struck 48,000 gallons a day of hot mineral water from an artesian deposit. First thought unfit to use, the water was found to have supposed curative powers, and on the initiative of local citizens and physicians a health resort grew up, with a bath house in 1895 and a second well in 1910. Marlin became a magnet for health-seekers from across the country.
Why it matters
It captures the Gilded Age faith in mineral-spring cures that turned small towns into national health resorts and reshaped their economies.
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Related people
- · T. A. Cheeves
- · J. W. Torbett
Themes & tags
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