Reagan Wells, Texas, Uvalde County. (original) (raw)

History in a Pecan Shell

The families of Lawrence Pike and Augustin Heard, arrived here from Williamson County around 1876. It is believed that John Reagan is the community�s namesake. Reagan exploited the natural springs that had been released in the 1880s by a well-digger named J. H. Hammer.

It was Reagan that built the community�s first hotel � a two-story edifice that was expanded into a health resort by subsequent owners.

In 1912 a general store was built across from the wells with a post office. The 1914 population was a mere 50 (permanent residents).

After declining to 20 residents, the community remained at that level through the Great Depression and WWII. After the war the bathing facilities closed and in 1970 the post office shut it�s doors.

In the early 1970s an all-Christian nonprofit organization called the Steps of Faith Ranch took over ownership of the former resort. It remains today as a rehabilitation center for troubled youths. The population for both 1990 and 2000 was 20.

Photographer's Note:

Reagan Wells, Texas

Second Community on FM-1051 of the 3 visited (Aldine, Reagan Wells and Heard). Still quite a few homes in this community. Only 1 of the 3 I would call still active. Even though this Marker is located in Reagan Wells it probably goes more with the next communty down the road- Heard, TX. -

William Beauchamp, June 2010

Historical Marker

Dry Frio Canyon

Area's first settlers--families of Louis Bohme, Charles Jones, Gus Heard and Lawrence Pike Heard-- arrived in 1875 in search of new frontiers and range lands.

The first post office was called Heard, as was the first school, which opened in 1880.

While digging a well in 1885, T. H. Hammer discovered area's mineral water which became famous for medicinal qualities. He later sold his property to a promoter named Reagan who built a bath house and hotel to sell mineral water.

Baptist Church, founded 1906, was first local house of worship.

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