The history behind this one-of-a-kind attraction in Georgia is truly something of a marvel. While many people may have visited this natural spring in the state, most aren’t aware of the rich and engrossing tale that surrounds the actual spring and how it came to be. Once you find out the story you’ll see just why this natural spring is a crucial piece of Georgia history.

In the mid-1800s, there was a military prison in Andersonville that kept thousands of Union prisoners of war.

Flickr Jim Surkamp

During the summertime, the conditions grew deplorable—sweltering heat, limited water supply, and men dying of disease and gangrene.

Flickr Wayne Hsieh

The men prayed and prayed for a solution, or for something to happen to provide water, until one day a miracle occurred.

Flickr Steven Martin

A storm broke out, and while the thunder came and winds roared, a bolt of lightning ripped through the sky and a fountain of pure, clean spring water erupted from the earth.

Flickr Michael Karrer

Considered one of the miracles of the Civil War, thousands of prisoners were saved by what some called an act of God.

Flickr Michael Noirot

Natural spring water continued to flow from the ground, still flowing to this day.

Flickr pwbaker

In 1901, veterans enclosed the spring with a marble shelter and inscribed the quote “The prisoner’s cry of thirst rang up to heaven”.

Flickr Michael Noirot

Today, visitors can visit the spring and pay their respects to those who were saved during the war.

Flickr Mark DL

If you are interested in visiting Providence Spring, then use the address below to guide your way:

Flickr Jim Surkamp

Flickr Wayne Hsieh

Flickr Steven Martin

Flickr Michael Karrer

Flickr Michael Noirot

Flickr pwbaker

Flickr Mark DL

Prison Site Rd, Andersonville, GA

Have you ever visited this natural spring? Share with us your stories! Otherwise, if you’re interested in other pieces of Georgia history, then you’ll love The Creepy Small Town In Georgia With Insane Paranormal Activity.

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