Long ago Spring Creek was more than just a creek. It was the lifeblood of Capitol Hill. A vital source of fresh water it quenched the thirst of early Washingtonians. This wasn’t just any water. This was Carroll Spring water. Named for Daniel Carroll a prominent landowner. The spring was located near the corner of New Jersey and Virginia Avenues. At least according to L’Enfant’s plan. The reality was a bit different.
Carroll Spring wasn’t merely a water source. It was a community hub. A gathering place for celebrations and less savory events. In 1836 the Native American Association met there. They celebrated the Fourth of July with an oration. They believed this spot had been a favorite retreat for George Washington himself. This however is unlikely. Years later Total Abstinence Societies held their own Independence Day celebrations at the spring. They marched from Judiciary Square to the White House then to the Capitol before finally arriving at the spring for an oration.
But not all gatherings were so peaceful. In 1859 a group of Zouaves young men from Capitol Hill and surrounding areas caused trouble. They engaged in stone battles and used plentiful curses. The police intervened. Fifteen of these miscreants were fined. Their rowdy behavior marked a contrast to the earlier celebrations.
The spring’s importance faded after the Civil War. Water mains replaced the need for natural springs. Carroll Spring still saw some use. It filled a fire department reservoir until it was eventually covered. Today no trace of the once vital Carroll Spring remains. Yet the story of Spring Creek and its spring reminds us of a bygone era. A time when a simple spring held such significance for a growing city.