Maldon's Springs

Maldon has at least three sources of spring water. One is in Spring Street, one is in the Shire Gardens, and one is at the site of the former Springs Brewery.

Today, sadly, the public is not able to access the water from these springs. However, many Maldon people hope that this lamentable situation will be corrected. Foremost among these folk is Arch Martin. Known to many and loved by all, "Old Arch" is a tireless campaigner for correcting various injustices that our lovely town has suffered. To be realistic, some of the past mistakes will never be corrected. That being the case, let us give our support to those causes that can be achieved, that are economical, and that are practical: like reopening the springs!

Bailliere's Victorian Gazetter and Road Guide, compiled by R.P.Whitworth and published in 1879, states (of Maldon): "There are fine springs of mineral water in the neighbourhood, said by Professor McCoy to be similar to spa water."

In a booklet about Maldon, produced by the CWA in 1948, there is a sketch of the Spring St. spring. This shows it equipped with a "monkey tail" pump. The text states that "beautiful clear water" could still be obtained from the pump at that time. A similar pump is in the collection of the Maldon Museum. Is it too much to hope that this is the same pump?

During a severe drought in the latter part of the 20th. century, there were strict limitations on water useage in Maldon. The people of the town asked for the springs to be reopened. The Shire tested the capacity of the springs in Spring St., and in the Shire Gardens. This was done by drawing-off 1000 gallons, and measuring the time required for the water level to recover. These tests showed that the springs could not supply water at an adequate rate, and they were not re-opened.

"More than one brewery was established at The Springs, but none succeeded as well as Bryant & Co. (1863). Springs ale brewed by the firm was in great demand over a wide area, and a flourishing business was built up. The brewery, valued at £20,000, employed a large staff."*

* from "Maldon and the Tarrangower Diggings" by A.J.Williams
first published gold centenary year 1953, reproduced 1987
copies available from the Maldon Museum & Archives Association