Just 10 feet apart, but worlds away in taste! In this episode, Dennis R. Simpson and James Wilborn, Superintendent of Lake Ouachita State Park, explore the historic Three Sister Springs.
Discovered in the 1870s by homesteader Mr. McFaden, these artesian springs run 24/7 and were once a world-famous resort where “healing water” was bottled and shipped as far as Chicago for 10 cents a bottle. We dive into the homesteading history of the area, the transition from a private resort to a State Park in 1955, and the science behind why these springs—sourced from thousands of feet below ground—have such distinct mineral compositions.
Plus, we address the big question: Can you still drink the water today? Join us for a live taste test of Springs 1, 2, and 3!
Video Chapters
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00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Three Sister Springs
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00:25 – The 1870s Discovery: Mr. McFaden’s Homestead
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01:11 – Homesteading Law: 160 Acres and a Water Source
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01:51 – 1907: The Transition to a Mineral Resort
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02:32 – Live Taste Test: Spring #2 (The Buttery One)
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03:08 – Comparing the Iron Levels in Springs 1 and 3
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04:22 – Why People Still Fill Jugs Today
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05:51 – The Geography: Before Lake Ouachita Was Built
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07:02 – The “Healing Water” Era: Bottled in Chicago
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08:25 – Historical Artifacts: Antique Bottles & Brass Stamps
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09:36 – The Resort Heyday: 25 Summer Cottages & Doctor Prescriptions
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10:41 – The Mystery of Artesian Springs: 10 Feet Apart, 1,000 Feet Deep
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11:11 – Preservation: Why the Current Building Was Built in the 70s
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13:04 – How the Army Corps of Engineers Created the State Park
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15:33 – The Legal Question: Why the “Non-Potable” Sign is There
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16:46 – Hot Springs vs. Three Sister Springs: The Rule Exceptions
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17:18 – Closing & Local Sponsor Plugs
Connect With Us
Follow our journey and stay updated on other local landmarks, history, and community features:
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Twitter: Briefly / @WiredDenny
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Facebook: Hot Springs Village Venues
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LinkedIn: Dennis Simpson