Leonard Spring

LEONARD SPRING Columbus' Original Source of Water. In 1839 citizens first called for the development of a water works system. On this site is located the original source of water for drinking and general household use for Columbus. Beginning in 1844, Leonard Spring, with a discharge of 200,000 gallons a day, provided water to the City through a series of wooden pipes.

Water was piped to Broad Street by way of Randolph Street, now known as 12th Street. In the 1880's city water was obtained from Lee County, Alabama. The present water plant on River Road was built in 1916. Since 1844, an ample supply of water has been one of Columbus' greatest assets and a vital fuel for its growth.

ERECTED BY THE HISTORIC CHATTAHOOCHEE COMMISSION AND THE COLUMBUS WATER WORKS 1989