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Barton Springs Timeline: From Sacred Place to Austin's 'Crown Jewel'

Austin History Center

Barton Springs has always been a popular Austin haunt. Its cooling waters have provided respite to many seeking shelter from the Central Texas sun — the Comanche and Tonkawa long considered the springs a sacred place.

But the popular swimming hole changed hands dozens of times before becoming the crown jewel of the capitol city. Below is a timeline of the springs' ownership.

For more on Barton Springs' history, check out the city's report in the Barton Springs master plan.

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