Blenheim Mineral Springs, Blenheim, South Carolina

## Overview Blenheim Mineral Springs is a historic natural mineral spring located in the small town of Blenheim, South Carolina, in Marlboro County. Discovered by James Spears in 1781, the spring has been a local landmark for well over two centuries. The mineral-rich water flowing from this site became the foundation for the famous Blenheim Ginger Ale — one of the oldest soft drinks in the United States, known for its fiery, spicy kick. The original bottling facility, which operated for decades using water drawn directly from the springs, still stands adjacent to the spring site and serves as a tangible piece of American beverage history. The spring remains accessible to the public and has historically been used as a drinking water source. Visitors have long reported that the water has a distinctive mineral taste, which is what originally inspired the creation of Blenheim Ginger Ale. The site is a registered point of interest and is maintained as a small public park, offering a quiet, reflective stop for history enthusiasts, spring water seekers, and fans of the iconic ginger ale alike. ## Directions 1. Head to the town of Blenheim in Marlboro County, South Carolina. 2. Find SC Highway 381, also known as East High Street, which runs through town. 3. Turn onto Spring Road, located just off SC 381 (East High Street). 4. The mineral springs are situated at the end of Spring Road, near the old Blenheim bottling facility. The GPS coordinates are approximately **34.50977, -79.64733**, and the nearest address is 189 State Hwy 381, Blenheim, SC 29516. ## What to Expect Blenheim Mineral Springs is a modest but historically significant site. The spring flows freely and is always open to the public, with no admission fees and free parking. There are no public restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly. Visitors will find the natural spring alongside the remnants of the old Blenheim bottling facility — a fascinating piece of industrial heritage worth exploring from the outside. The water has been reported to have a notable mineral character, and the spring has been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors for generations. The surrounding area is quiet and rural, making for a peaceful visit. Because this is a small, unattended historic site in a rural setting, there are limited amenities. It's a great stop for anyone traveling through the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, especially those with an interest in local history, natural springs, or the story behind Blenheim Ginger Ale.