Lampasas in Lampasas County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
Site of Abney Plunge
Photographed by James Hulse, July 25, 2025
1. Site of Abney Plunge Marker
Inscription.
Site of Abney Plunge. . In 1902, local businessmen hired the American Drilling Co. to drill for oil at this site on W.B. Abney's property. Early the next year, the crew struck sulphur water, which was noted for having medicinal qualities. They also found sources of salt and surface water. On several occasions, water stopped flowing at Abney's Well. A new well was drilled next to the old well in 1926, and the following year Abney and his son built the Abney Swimming Pool. The large pool, known as Abney's Plunge, became a popular attraction for residents and visitors each year. The school district bought the property in 1937 and used the pool for many years until converting the site into a play area in 1954.
In 1902, local businessmen hired the American Drilling Co. to drill for oil at this site on W.B. Abney's property. Early the next year, the crew struck sulphur water, which was noted for having medicinal qualities. They also found sources of salt and surface water. On several occasions, water stopped flowing at Abney's Well. A new well was drilled next to the old well in 1926, and the following year Abney and his son built the Abney Swimming Pool. The large pool, known as Abney's Plunge, became a popular attraction for residents and visitors each year. The school district bought the property in 1937 and used the pool for many years until converting the site into a play area in 1954.
Erected 2004 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 13033.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Education • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1902.
Location. 31° 4.176′ N, 98° 10.936′ W. Marker is in Lampasas, Texas, in Lampasas County. It is on East Avenue B east of N Chestnut Street, on the right when traveling east. The marker is located in front of the building by the street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 208 E Ave B, Lampasas TX 76550, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Big Country. Globally, it is in North America, a Gulf of Mexico state, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain, the Republic of Texas, and one of the Confederate States of America.
2. The view of the Site of Abney Plunge and Marker from the street
Credits. This page was last revised on July 27, 2025. It was originally submitted on July 27, 2025, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 94 times since then and 30 times this year. Photos:1, 2. submitted on July 27, 2025, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.
