"Old Facefull" - The Oldest Spring in Michigan

This artesian well appears to defy gravity. Pure crystal water has been spewing from this spicket since 1931. It is the freshest water I’ve ever tasted! Join us as we sample this obscure Michigan treasure.

*Old Facefull is located at the end of Thirteen Mile Road in Pierport, Michigan.*

As we approached the pipe, standing vertically from the ground, the cold water misted, cooling the air. Why is it called “Facefull?” Well, when you lean over, you get a face full of water. (Tee Hee Hee)

Splashing unassumingly I wasn’t sure of this natural wonder’s importance. Afterall, there wasn’t an entrance fee or even a gift shop. Just cold water bubbling from somewhere below. Only a simple marker denoted the name, “Old Facefull 1931.”

The artesian well stands at the end of Thirteen Mile Road at the Pierport Public Access Beach parking lot. Being right alongside Lake Michigan, I thought the water may taste fishy.

A family was loading their cooler with water when we walked up. As they left, I bent over and swallowed a mouthful. It was cold, clear and refreshing. The best water I’ve ever had! Chuck filled a bottle for us to enjoy later. A postal vehicle pulled up and parked in the shade.

A Plethora of People

The postal carrier hopped out of her truck, “I stop by here daily.” she smiled as she refilled her container. Another woman stepped up with a blue cooler and an insulated cup. “I moved here three years ago. All the locals get water from here, so I tried it. It’s the cleanest I’ve ever tasted.”

Howie, clad in a sunshine yellow shirt, climbed out of his truck with a clear glass from his kitchen cabinet. “I come down here and take a break.” He filled his cup and took a sip. “It’s so cold you don’t need ice.” A family with their dog stopped and filled some water jugs.

*During our seven minute visit, more than ten people, with a variety of containers, had stopped by the spring.*

Another group from the beach walked over carrying Stanley mugs. Each taking a turn to load up on fresh drinking water. Next, Jim parked his pick-up alongside the well. He emerged with two jugs and a red plastic glass. Right away he filled his red glass and quenched his thirst. Then he began filling his containers with a sense of ritual.

This modest and humble offering of spring water, “Old Facefull,” has served this community continuously since 1931.

How Long Will It Last?

Will Old Facefull reach the century mark in 2031? It would be amazing, right?

Well, in the sandstone region of North Africa, the Nubian Aquifer System has been flowing for thousands of years. This source of water is vital to survival in Egypt, Chad, Libya and Sudan. So, Old Facefull may be able to keep flowing for some time.

How Is This Possible?

When the glaciers melted, some water was trapped underground, known as an aquifer. Think of it like a water balloon. Over the centuries, layers of sediment and rock have piled on top of this aquifer creating pressure from above. When a pipe is driven down into the underground water, the liquid is pushed upward. It’s like a straw being inserted into a water-filled balloon.