Ax Factory Spring, Collinsville, Connecticut, CT 06022

## Overview Ax Factory Spring is a public drinking spring located on Spring Street in the historic village of Collinsville, Connecticut — a community renowned for its deep ties to the Collins Company, which manufactured axes and other edged tools from the early 1800s through the mid-20th century. The spring sits in the heart of this former industrial village, nestled beside a brick building that speaks to the area's manufacturing heritage. Collinsville's history as a center of ax production earned it national recognition, and the village's proximity to the Farmington River provided both waterpower and natural spring sources that sustained the community for generations. The spring itself has a distinctive setup: the water source appears to originate roughly 20 feet up inside an adjacent shed or outbuilding, which is typically locked and not publicly accessible. However, the gurgling spring water flows out from the side of the structure and can be clearly heard as it emerges. Visitors have historically used this as a drinking water source, though water quality should always be assessed with caution. The spring's location on a street literally named "Spring Street" suggests it has been a recognized water feature in the community for a long time. ## Directions 1. From the center of Collinsville, head to **Spring Street** (off Route 179 / Main Street). 2. Look for the spring at **1 Spring Street**, adjacent to a brick building. 3. GPS coordinates: **41.809608, -72.921317** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring can be easy to miss. 4. Note that the spring is located on the exterior side of the building — the main entrance to the brick building does not provide access to the spring. Walk around the structure and listen for the sound of flowing water. ## What to Expect Ax Factory Spring is a modest but charming roadside spring in a walkable village setting. The water emerges from the side of a structure next to a brick building, and the gurgling flow is audible as you approach. The spring source itself is enclosed within a locked shed or outbuilding and is not directly accessible, but the outflow is visible and reachable from the exterior. Collinsville is a picturesque New England village well worth exploring while you visit the spring. The Farmington River runs through town, offering opportunities for tubing, kayaking, and fishing. The Canton Historical Museum, housed in the former Collins Company buildings, is nearby and tells the story of the ax factory that gave this spring its name. The Farmington River Trail also passes through the area, making it easy to combine a spring visit with a scenic walk or bike ride. Parking is generally available along Spring Street or on nearby village roads. The spring is accessible year-round, though flow may vary seasonally. Winter visitors should be mindful of icy conditions around the outflow area.