Penn Springs
Duncanville, Dallas County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This area was an important early campsite and watering spot for Indians and pioneer settlers. Two springs formed a natural pool which served as a landmark for wagon trains and cattle drives on the Shawnee Trail. In the 1850s the site was settled by the family of Maj. John Penn of Illinois, who had first visited here in 1848. On July 4, 1882, Penn Springs was the scene of a Confederate reunion of Parson's Texas Cavalry. Owned by Penn Family members until 1895, the springs have continued to play an important role in the development of Duncanville.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Two springs feeding a natural pool made this a vital watering place, first for Native peoples and later for the wagon trains and cattle drives moving along the Shawnee Trail. Major John Penn of Illinois settled his family here in the 1850s after first visiting in 1848, and on July 4, 1882, the springs hosted a Confederate reunion of Parson's Texas Cavalry. The Penns held the land until 1895 as Duncanville grew around it.
Why it matters
A single reliable water source shaped the movement of peoples and herds across North Texas, linking Indigenous trails, frontier settlement, and the great cattle drives in one place.
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Related people
- · Maj. John Penn
Related events
- · Confederate reunion of Parson's Texas Cavalry
Themes & tags
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