Delaware isn’t always the first state to come to mind when you think of geologic oddities, but there’s something strange hiding in the heart of our state. Brandywine Springs State Park was once a legendary destination across the nation, thanks to a mystical healing spring that drew travelers from all over.
The humble Brandywine Springs Park is home to one of the East Coast’s oddest geological wonders - the Chalybeate Spring.
Facebook / Brandywine Springs Park
Back in the earliest days of the country, travelers came to the legendary spring for its healing powers and magical properties.
Facebook / Friends of Brandywine Springs
Throughout the 1800s, an enormous resort and amusement park brought thousands to the site of the springs for a world-class vacation.
Brandywine Springs / Courtesy of Mike Ciosek
Though the park is long gone, curious historians and geologists can still visit the site of the spring.
Facebook / Friends of Brandywine Springs
A group of volunteers known as the Friends of Brandywine Springs have excavated the Chalybeate Spring and even tested the water.
Facebook / Friends of Brandywine Springs
Turns out, this geologic oddity is ultra high in iron. That explains the strange taste and odd physical side effects that early believers experienced.
Facebook / Friends of Brandywine Springs
Visit Brandywine Springs Park to hike to the spring yourself, and you’ll spot remnants of the old amusement park along the way.
Facebook / Friends of Brandywine Springs
Brandywine Springs Park is located at 3300 Faulkland Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808.
Facebook / Brandywine Springs Park
Facebook / Friends of Brandywine Springs
Brandywine Springs / Courtesy of Mike Ciosek
For more information on the resort and amusement park that once stood at this spot, read 21 Then And Now Photos That Show Just How Much Delaware’s Most Iconic Amusement Park Has Changed.
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