Grierson Springs

In 1878 Colonel Benjamin H. Grierson, commander at Fort Concho in San Angelo, was named administrator of the newly created District of the Pecos. The District was formed with the view of tightening the military control of the Rio Grande border above the mouth of the Pecos River. Grierson intensified his defensive program by scouting and exploration within the district. The main emphasis during exploration was placed on finding good reliable water sources. An expedition led by Lieutenant Mason Maxon located a spring which became known as Grierson's Spring.

A new road was built from Camp Charlotte to the Pecos Crossing by way of Grierson's Spring. The road provided a shorter route west as well as a new water source. From 1878 to 1882 Grierson established a military outpost at the spring in order to house the troops that were on duty in the area. Construction of building, redoubts, spring boxes, and a military road are reported in letters sent from Grierson's Spring. However, no diagrams of building or locations are extant. An archeological survey of the site was conducted to locate and document any remaining structures.

The CVAS held a field trip to Grierson's Spring March 7, 1998. Dry-stacked stone walls remain in part, and building layouts are discernible. We owe a great deal to the landowner who has devoted much to preserving Grierson Springs. Prior to the current owner's efforts the site was severely threatened with obliteration.

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