Chalybeate Spring

## Overview Chalybeate Spring is a historic public drinking spring located along Faulkland Road in the Wilmington area of New Castle County, Delaware. The name "chalybeate" (pronounced kuh-LIB-ee-it) refers to water that is naturally rich in iron salts, a designation that has been applied to mineral springs throughout the eastern United States and Europe for centuries. Chalybeate springs were historically prized for their purported health benefits, and many became popular gathering spots and even destinations for early American "water cure" enthusiasts. This particular spring sits near the address 3300 Faulkland Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, and has long been known to local residents as a source of naturally mineral-rich water. The iron content typical of chalybeate springs often gives the water a slightly metallic taste and can leave reddish-orange mineral deposits around the spring outlet. Visitors have historically used this spring as a drinking water source, though water quality can vary over time and with environmental conditions. Delaware's chalybeate springs are part of a broader geological tradition in the Mid-Atlantic Piedmont region, where iron-bearing rock formations allow groundwater to pick up dissolved minerals as it travels underground before emerging at the surface. ## Directions 1. From downtown Wilmington, head west on DE-52 South (Kennett Pike) or take Faulkland Road heading southwest. 2. The spring is located near **3300 Faulkland Road, Wilmington, DE 19808**. 3. Look for the spring along the roadside in the Faulkland Road area. GPS coordinates: **39.745364, -75.639287**. 4. Parking may be limited to roadside pull-offs, so use caution when stopping. ## What to Expect Chalybeate Spring is a roadside public drinking spring, making it relatively easy to access without a long hike. The spring has been reported to flow year-round, though flow rates may vary seasonally. As a chalybeate spring, the water is expected to contain naturally occurring iron, which may give it a distinctive mineral taste and a slight reddish tint. The surrounding area along Faulkland Road is a mix of suburban and semi-rural landscape in New Castle County. Visitors should be mindful of traffic when pulling over to access the spring. There are no formal facilities at the site — no restrooms, picnic tables, or signage — so plan accordingly. Because this is a natural, untreated water source, the water has historically been used for drinking by locals, but conditions can change. Those who choose to collect water do so at their own discretion. Bringing your own container is recommended if you plan to sample the water.