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South Hutchinson, Kansas: 1,260 Lb. Salt Block and Discovery Well

A small picnic area, interpretive signs and a 1,260 pound block of salt behind glass pays tribute to the 1887 accidental discovery of a gigantic salt vein at the bottom of well drilled in search of oil.

Salt Discovery Well Park

Address:
1 Discovery Loop, South Hutchinson, KS
Directions:
US-50 exit onto KS-14/96/Main St. Turn north, then a quick first left onto Des Moines Ave. Drive a quarter-mile to the park on the left; you'll see the sign for the Discovery Well.
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1260 lb. salt block.

1,260 Lb. Salt Block and Discovery Well

A outdoor historical exhibit, with a large block of salt displayed, courtesy of the Hutchinson Salt Company. In September 1887, hoping to attract interest in his real estate ventures in South Hutchinson, Ben Blanchard drilled a well looking for oil. Instead he drilled into one of the richest veins of salt in the world. Located just off the US 50W/61W Exit Main Street turn right Immediate left. There will be a historical marker pointing to the left to the salt block and discovery well.

[Stoney, 04/08/2013]

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In the region:
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