Historical Marker

First Public Well

Historical marker location:

Paducah, Kentucky

( 119 Broadway, Paducah)

July 22, 1833, the City Council authorized John Hynes and David Smith "to let a contract for a public well." In 1835 the old well was ordered cleaned and a new one built with "windlass, chain, and hook for the bucket." The well required constant care, and misuse of the bucket led to adoption of an ordinance July 11, 1834. Marker presented by Paducah Tourist Commission.

Reverse

Public Well Ordinance - "Persons drawing water are in the habit of starting the windlass and letting the bucket run down with great speed by which the bucket is frequently broken. Resolved that if this occurs hereafter, he or she...shall pay 4 dollars fine...[or]...shall receive on the lower back ten stripes well laid." Marker presented by Paducah Tourist Commission.