Boulware Springs Water Works facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Boulware Spring Waterworks
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 Location in Florida
Location in the United States
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| Location | Gainesville, Florida |
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| NRHP reference No. | 85001255 |
| Added to NRHP | 20 June 1985 |
The Boulware Springs Water Works is a special historic place in Gainesville, Florida. It is located at 3400 Southeast 15th Street. This site was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on June 20, 1985. This means it is an important place in American history. Today, it is also the start of the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail, a popular path for walking and biking.
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Why Boulware Springs is Important
Boulware Springs played a big role in the early days of Gainesville. It was more than just a water source. It helped shape the city we know today.
The Birth of Gainesville
In 1854, something very important happened at Boulware Springs. People from the area met there. They voted to create a brand new town. This new town was Gainesville. It was chosen to replace Newnansville as the main city for Alachua County. The spring's location was key to this decision.
Gainesville's First Water Supply
For many years, Boulware Springs was the main source of water for Gainesville. From the city's early days until 1913, all the city's water came from this spring. Having a reliable water supply helped Gainesville grow. It allowed more people to live there and businesses to thrive.
A Promise to the University of Florida
The University of Florida is a large and famous school. In 1901, the university decided to move. It left Lake City and came to Gainesville. A big reason for this move was a promise from Gainesville. The city offered the university free water for life. This water was to come from Boulware Springs. Even though the springs are no longer used for Gainesville's water system, the University of Florida still receives free water today. This promise helped Gainesville become a major university town.
