Wells were an important source of water for Lexington County residents throughout the history of the county.

Many homeowners on Lake Murray and in rural areas still use them. Many prefer them to treated piped-in water.

Farms and those living outside towns would have their own well located somewhere on their property.

We don’t know exactly where John Fox’s well was on the museum’s property.

Fox’s grandson dug a well that was at least 141 feet deep in 1899.

Farm animals would drink from creeks nearby. Those in town could often times use the town well.

Lexington’s town well was at the corner of Church and Main Street in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

JR Fennell is Lexington County Museum director.