Nancy Hanks Spring, Keyser, WV

## Overview Nancy Hanks Spring is a public drinking spring located along the Northwestern Turnpike (US Route 50) near Burlington in Mineral County, West Virginia. Named after Nancy Hanks — the mother of President Abraham Lincoln — this roadside spring has long been a welcome stop for travelers and locals alike. Even during the hottest summer weather, the spring reportedly produces large quantities of cold, refreshing water, making it a reliable year-round water source. The spring sits in the rural hills of the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia, near the intersection of Penneroil Road and Knobley Road. The area is steeped in Appalachian heritage, and roadside springs like this one have served communities and travelers for generations. Visitors have historically used the spring as a drinking water source, and it remains a popular stop for filling jugs and bottles. The spring is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and is freely accessible to the public. ## Directions 1. From **Keyser, WV**, head west on **US Route 50 (Northwestern Turnpike)** toward Burlington. 2. Watch for the intersection of **Knobley Road** and **US 50**. 3. Turn onto **Knobley Road** heading south. 4. Continue along Knobley Road toward the intersection with **Penneroil Road**. 5. The spring is located near the intersection of **Penneroil Road and Knobley Road**. 6. GPS coordinates: **39.349724, -78.992249**. The nearest address is approximately **6885 Northwestern Turnpike, Burlington, WV 26710**. *Note: The spring is a roadside stop, so keep an eye out for a pull-off area or pipe near the intersection.* ## What to Expect Nancy Hanks Spring is a classic Appalachian roadside spring — simple, functional, and appreciated by those who know about it. The spring reportedly flows generously even during peak summer heat, so visitors looking to fill containers should find a steady supply of water. The water has been historically used as a drinking water source by locals and passersby, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. The surrounding landscape is typical of Mineral County's rolling hills and wooded ridges, offering a peaceful, rural setting. There are no formal facilities at the spring — no restrooms, parking lots, or signage beyond what the community has provided. Simply pull off the road near the intersection, fill up, and enjoy the quiet countryside. The spring is accessible year-round with no restricted hours, making it a convenient stop whether you're traveling the Northwestern Turnpike or exploring the back roads of eastern West Virginia.