Mineral Wells, Texas (16,880), on Hwy 281, intersecting with the east/west Highway 180. West of Ft. Worth, North of the intersection of U.S. Highway 281 and Interstate 20. This north Texas town is an area of about twenty square miles.
Around 1880 a local North Texas man dug a well that produced a foul tasting water. This enterprising Texan declared that this "Crazy Water" had cured his rheumatism. Soon there after "Crazy Water" was being touted as a cure for numerous ailments from sore muscles to hysteria. The area was billed as the greatest health resort of the South by 1920 with over four hundred mineral wells.
As you're rolling along Hwy 281 into Mineral Wells one of the tallest structures one sees is the 14 storied Baker Hotel. Also known as the "Crazy Well Hotel". The historically storied hotel was the “in” spot for the rich and famous to see and be seen. To name a few, Clark Gable, Judy Garland, Marlene Dietrich, Jean Harlow, Will Rogers, Roy Rogers and even that crazy trio "The Three Stooges" were guests.
The Baker Hotel opened its doors just two weeks after the stock market crash of 1929. It filed for bankruptcy in 1932 and new owners reopened it. From 1941 to 1944 it served as military dependent quarters. After the war it remained open till 1963 before closing. It opened again from 1965 to 1972 when the doors were locked for a final time.
Annual activities around Mineral Wells 281 include the Ranch Rodeo and Cowboy Gathering in April, Pro Rodeo in May and the Crazy Water Festival in October. July average high is 98 degrees, January average low is 32 degrees. April to May are normally the wettest months.
From US Highway 281 look to downtown for local flavor at one of the many antique shops and unique boutiques; midtown has many more shopping opportunities and the east-side of town has outlet shopping.
Mineral Wells Chamber of Commerce Website:
Clark Gardens Botanical Park welcomes visitors all year long. This breathtaking, 35-acre oasis awakens your senses, stirs your spirit and relaxes your being. From the bursting buds of spring to the crispness of fall. Clark Gardens Website:
Not sure if this is the same infamous "Crazy Water" of the olden days. Celebrating over 100 years of service to the area, the Famous Mineral Water Company continues to serve loyal patrons who relish the original mineral, deep well mineral waters. Famous Mineral Water Website:
Northeast of Mineral Wells Highway 281 is the Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway. This place has something for everyone. With camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, equestrian opportunities and rock climbing for every skill level. A state hiking trail of 20 miles long, from downtown Mineral Wells to Cartwright Park near Weatherford, Texas.
Lake Mineral Wells State Park Website:
From what I understand it is legal to consume the "Crazy Water" of Mineral Wells, Texas and operate a motorized vehicle.
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