Round Rock History: The Downtown Well
History of the Well at Mays and Georgetown (Main Street)
Travelers through downtown may notice the attractive gazebo with a water well near the new roundabout. It is a dedication to a piece of Round Rock’s history.
Originally drilled in 1879, this well, capped by a gazebo, was at the intersection of Mays and Main Street for many decades. It was originally an Artesian well, meaning it flowed freely without any pumps. In fact, it’s recorded that the constant and steady flow created a muddy street as water flowed downhill on Mays Street. The Gazebo created a natural Bandstand, and it was frequently used by musicians for impromptu concerts, attracting crowds from all around town.
Before this 1879 well downtown, residents obtained water from Mr. Burnet’s well north of Brushy Creek. With a team of horses and a wagon, he hauled barrels of water around town on a standard route daily.
In 1970, the old well was deemed a traffic hazard, and the well was capped; a replica gazebo was installed and relocated to the corner near a sidewalk. Later, this was once again removed in a realignment of Main Street. A fresh presentation is now just west of the new roundabout, in front of First Baptist Church.
Today, its seating and shade are frequently enjoyed by visitors downtown as they snack on our famous Round Rock Donuts.
Although the gazebo and well have been relocated downtown, they serve as another of Round Rock’s expressions of our historic heritage.
Water Well Gazebo today, as it sits at the Round Rock downtown roundabout intersection.
Copy and images provided by Round Rock Preservation. Photo credits: City of Round Rock and Frank Darr.
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