Travelers who find their vacation state of mind most easily in places where small-town charm and outdoor recreation are paired seamlessly will find endless reasons to make their way to Mineral Wells, Texas. Today, this scenic and exciting destination is one where modern comforts and access to fun are easily found. A trip this way offers up opportunities to enjoy Elmhurst Park, Lake Mineral Wells State Park, and museums like the Little Rock School House Museum just to name a few! That said, Mineral Wells is also a place that’s packed with rich history and stories that have made it the inspiring destination it’s known and loved as today. Making a come back as well! Mineral Well, Texas is under a major restoration with plans to once again be the known as the wellness destination it was once famous for.
A City with a History of Healing
The history of Mineral Wells, Texas dates back to the late 1870s when a man by the name of James Alvis Lynch and his family left Denison, Texas, and moved west in pursuit of a drier climate. Lynch and his wife suffered from rheumatism and were looking for a place where they could find relief from their ailments. They found the climate they were looking for in the area that is now known as Mineral Wells. At the time, everything about the region was ideal for the Lynch family except for the fact that the nearest water source, the Brazos River, was 4 miles away!
To remedy the problem, they hired a driller named Providence to drill a well on their property in exchange for oxen. The well was completed in the summer of 1880 and immediately, the Lynch family noticed that the drinking water had a funny taste. They also noticed that as they drank water from the well, symptoms of their illnesses began to quickly disappear.
News of the medicinal powers of their well quickly spread throughout the area and in the fall of 1881, the town of Mineral Wells was named and established accordingly. Mr. Lynch became the first mayor and people from near and far showed up to drink the water with purported healing powers.
City Growth
As the healing waters of Mineral Wells were helping people regain their strength and wellness, they were also helping the town itself grow and prosper. More wells began to be dug out across Mineral Wells and by the early 20th century, drinking pavilions, spas, and mineral water bathhouses were popping up too. Mineral Wells even began exporting their healing water to other destinations using train services.
Healing Wates in the Modern World
While many of Mineral Well’s water companies shuttered their doors in the 1940s following the Great Depression, the Famous Mineral Water Company prospered and continues to thrive today. Since it’s found in 1904, this water company has found a way to evolve into modern times. Those who visit Mineral Wells, Texas today can still stop by the Famous Mineral Water Company at 209 NW 6th Street and order up a refreshing mineral water at their leisure. It’s a great way to enjoy local flavors and participate in the history that built the city itself! Of course you will also want to schedule a Mineral Bath at Crazy Bath House.
Book Your Mineral Wells Getaway Today
When your travel plans bring you to Mineral Wells, Texas, booking a stay at Magpie Inn elevates the experience even further! Built in 1907 this traditional Bed and Breakfast is one of two original boarding houses still standing today. Timeless architecture meet all the modern comforts at the Chef owned and operated boutique inn. Get in touch today to learn more about reserving your place the next time you’re in town.