Kidd Springs Park

Kidd Springs Lake, ca 1908

Before Oak Cliff became a part of Dallas, the community debated about using Kidd Springs as a water supply. It was thought an infinite supply of water could be had if only an artesian well could access the source. Questions remained about the chemical content of the water, and I can find no mention of actual drilling of a well. In the early 1900s Kidd Springs was a popular place for picnics, and it is often mentioned as a destination of Dallas society. People began building homes in the verdant area, and in 1921 the city of Dallas annexed the community of Kidd Springs Heights.

Kidd Springs bridge & inlet, ca 1907

Kidd Springs Swimming Pool, ca 1959

Kidd Springs Swimming Pool opened in May 1959. The pool cost $74,000 and was built to replace a permanently-closed pool at Lake Cliff Park.

Lake Cliff Park

Entrance to Lake Cliff with Interurban Rails

Entrance Detail

Did you know there was once an amusement park situated at Lake Cliff? It included a merry-go-round, the "mystic river", a ride called Chute-the-Chutes, even a Casino. The Garden Theater provided a venue for live performers.

 from Dallas Morning News, June 14, 1909

Marsalis Zoo

Entrance to the Marsalis Zoo, circa 1970. In the skyline the Southland Life Building is on the right and it's no longer the tallest office building in town.