About This Spring
According to the Ohio Historical Marker, this spot's "spring fed watering system was constructed by Giles Richards (1792-1876), in 1867. It has supplied water to livestock and travelers ever since." Richards started Colerain Township in the early 1800s and owned and operated several enterprises. The following is written on the marble slab, just above the iron tube: 'Stranger & traveler drink freely and bestow an kindly thought upon him who allowed this fountain to flow. It has no other claim except that of ministering blessings in God's honor. Drink and go in peace. "" – Colerain Historical Society. The Ohio Historical Society. The inscription on marble slabs comes from John Greenleaf Whittier's poem, "On A Fountain: For Dorothea L. Dix." The trough is a half of the old iron rollers that were used to build the Colerain (Cincinnati-Oxford-Brookville) turnpike. Apparently, the "hillside spring-fed, stone watering trough" had an old name. Amanda Springs was not only Giles Richards' donator, but also N. G. French (and Amanda B. French). Here is a badly cropped photo of the postcard, from which you can reference the "alternative names". It should also be noted that the postcard shows "Amanda Springs" in Butler County. This is wrong. It is actually in Hamilton County. More specifically, Colerain Township is 1.5 miles south. It is found just east from E. Miami River Rd. on Old Colerain Ave. It was once a popular spot for travelers, until US 27 was rerouted on a new roadway in 1970.
Getting There
Address
11889, Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45252, US
GPS Coordinates
39.305056, -84.634728
Know how to get here? These springs are often off the beaten path. Help fellow explorers by sharing directions.
Water Safety Disclaimer
Try Water does not independently test, verify, or guarantee the quality, safety, or potability of any water source listed on this site. Listings are based on publicly available data, community contributions, and historical reports — not laboratory analysis.
Water conditions at natural springs can change at any time due to weather, contamination, agricultural runoff, seasonal variation, or other environmental factors. A spring that was safe to drink from yesterday may not be safe today.
Always test water yourself before drinking. We strongly recommend using a portable water testing kit or filter (such as a LifeStraw) and consulting local health authorities when in doubt. Never rely solely on the information provided here when making decisions about drinking from a natural water source.
By using this site, you acknowledge that you assume all risk associated with visiting and consuming water from any listed source.
Quick Facts
Have You Visited?
Help the community know this spot is still active.
Community Verification
0%Help verify this listing and earn your Explorer badge
Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Accessible by road — pull off carefully.
Safety Info
Always test or filter water from natural springs before drinking. Water quality can change seasonally.
Bring your own containers. A portable water filter like a LifeStraw is recommended.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.