Murfree Spring Wetlands
Murfree Spring played a vital role in the early days of Murfreesboro, serving as a crucial water source for the first settlers of the area. When the town was established in 1817, the abundance of springs and streams, notably Sand Spring and Murfree Spring, was a key factor in choosing the location. Early inhabitants relied on these springs for their water needs, hauling water in pots on their heads or using horse-drawn water drays. The springs not only provided sustenance but also contributed to leisure activities around the springs’ scenic and refreshing waters.
Geologically, the Murfreesboro area is characterized by a complex underground limestone system that influences local groundwater and surface water features. The region lies within the Central Basin, part of Tennessee's Inner Basin, composed of layers of limestone formed over 500 million years ago. Beneath the surface, limestone layers create a karst landscape with caves, sinkholes, and underground streams. The porous upper layers act like a sponge, drawing in and storing rainwater, which surfaces through springs like Murfree Spring. The tough, dense bottom layer acts as the aquifer’s floor, guiding underground water pathways that feed the springs above.
Historically, the Murfree Spring site has seen diverse industrial use. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it housed Stones River Creamery, established in 1884, which was a cornerstone of Rutherford County's dairy industry. By 1902, the site expanded to include the Christy & Huggins Ice Plant, which supplied ice and coal to the community. Around 1908, the plant added Coca-Cola bottling operations, making it a hub for soft drink production. This facility remained operational until 1985, when urban expansion led to its closure. The site was then redeveloped, and today it is home to the Discovery Center (which is a lot of fun for children) and the lush Murfree Springs Wetlands.
In 2000, the land surrounding Murfree Spring was acquired to develop a pioneering educational facility. The Discovery Center now stands as a vibrant children’s museum and nature center, offering interactive exhibits on water, ecology, and local history. Its focus on exploration helps visitors connect with the environment while fostering environmental stewardship within the community.
The wetlands surrounding Murfree Springs are a cornerstone of local biodiversity and ecological health. Covering about 25 acres, the Murfree Spring Wetlands provides habitat for a wide array of flora and fauna, including turtles, herons, otters, beavers, and numerous bird species. Native plants such as wetland grasses, water-speedwell, and various aquatic plants thrive here, supporting the local food chain and overall ecosystem resilience. These wetlands also play a vital role in filtering stormwater, removing pollutants, and replenishing groundwater, thereby benefiting the broader environment. As a popular destination for birdwatchers and photographers, the wetlands attract visitors from outside the area, bolstering eco-tourism and promoting awareness of conservation efforts. With ongoing restoration projects, including invasive species removal and native plant reestablishment, the wetlands continue to be a vital ecological and educational resource for Murfreesboro and its visitors.
