Wizard Wells in Jack County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
Wizard Wells
The Kiowa Indians first visited this location and used the mineral waters for medical purposes. George Washington Vineyard settled here in the 1870s, taking up a claim originally established by David Rowland. Vineyard dug this well for his home but the mineral-tasting water was not used. He suffered from sore eyes and from ulcers on his legs but was cured by bathing in and drinking the water. The news spread and visitors suffering from arthritis, rheumatism, stomach disorders, and skin diseases began coming to the well.
Those seeking treatments often camped along Bean's Creek in their wagons. Soon three hotels and several bath houses opened to serve the increased visitor population. The town of Vineyard was laid out in 1882 and J. H. Grisham opened the first general store. The town later included several churches, a newspaper, school; sawmill, blacksmith shop, and post office.
In 1898 the Rock Island Railroad bypassed Vineyard and Sebree community was started (2 miles south). Visitors arriving by train took a hack to the resort. H. F. Stamper and his sons, Clint and H. F. Jr., petitioned the Legislature in 1915 and the name of Vineyard became "Wizard Wells". Sebree was changed to Vineyard.
Erected 1980 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 5884.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Settlements & Settlers.
Location. 33° 12.047′ N, 97° 58.267′ W. Marker is in Wizard Wells, Texas, in Jack County. Marker is at the intersection of North Wizard Road and Farm to Market Road 1156, on the right when traveling north on North Wizard Road. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Jacksboro TX 76458, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 11 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Lake Bridgeport World War II Training Site (approx. 6.7 miles away); Lake Bridgeport (approx. 9 miles away); James B. Dosher (approx. 10.8 miles away); Toll Bridge & Old Bridgeport (approx. 10.8 miles away); Old Hess Building (approx. 10.8 miles away); Jack County (approx. 10.9 miles away); Old Jack County Courthouse Cornerstone (approx. 10.9 miles away); Fort Richardson (approx. 10.9 miles away).
Credits. This page was last revised on April 11, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 11, 2023, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. This page has been viewed 216 times since then and 75 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on April 11, 2023, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.