Slaterville Springs Magnetic Mineral Spring, Caroline, New York, NY

## Overview Slaterville Springs Magnetic Mineral Spring is a historic artesian spring located along Slaterville Road in the hamlet of Slaterville Springs, within the town of Caroline in Tompkins County, New York. This small but notable spring has been in continuous use since the late 1800s and has long been believed by locals and visitors alike to possess remarkable healing properties — a reputation that likely contributed to the hamlet itself being named "Slaterville Springs." The water flows from a natural artesian source, emerging through a small spout. Visitors have reported that the water is exceptionally clear-tasting and noticeably mineral-charged, consistent with the spring's "magnetic mineral" designation. The term "magnetic" in the spring's name historically referred to iron-rich mineral content, which was prized in the 19th century for its supposed therapeutic benefits. Springs of this type were common destinations during the mineral water craze of the Victorian era, and Slaterville Springs appears to be one of the few in the Finger Lakes region that has remained accessible and in use to this day. ## Directions 1. The spring is located at **2669 Slaterville Road** in the hamlet of Slaterville Springs, NY 14881. 2. From **Ithaca, NY**, head east on NY Route 79 (Slaterville Road). The hamlet of Slaterville Springs is approximately 8 miles east of downtown Ithaca. 3. Look for the spring along Slaterville Road near the Caroline Court House area in the center of the hamlet. 4. GPS coordinates: **42.393944, -76.35006** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring spout is small and easy to miss if you're driving quickly. ## What to Expect The spring is a modest, unassuming setup — a small spout delivering a steady flow of artesian water. Don't expect a grand fountain or park-like setting; this is a roadside community spring that has served generations of locals. The water emerges clear and cold, and many visitors describe it as having a distinctly mineral, slightly metallic taste characteristic of iron-bearing springs. The spring is publicly accessible, though specific hours of availability are not formally posted. Being an artesian spring, the water flows continuously under its own natural pressure. The surrounding area is rural and quiet, set within the rolling hills of Tompkins County near the southern Finger Lakes. The hamlet of Slaterville Springs itself is small, so amenities are limited — plan to bring your own containers if you intend to collect water. Historically, the water has been used as a drinking water source by the local community for well over a century. While the spring has a long tradition of use, water quality can vary over time, and no current testing data is publicly available. Visitors who have collected water here have generally reported it to be clean and pleasant-tasting.