Historical fountain moves closer to home

Judd Morse Staff Writer

Ada October 01, 2008 04:31 pm

— One of two large water fountains formerly featured in Ada has been moved from its former location in Fittstown to a temporary location in Byng. Preserving Area Stories in Time (PAST) plans to feature the fountain as a part of Ada’s history once a suitable permanent location has been found. PAST member Billie Floyd said the organization hopes to have the fountain restored to its former grandness.
According to PAST, early Ada resident Harold Blackburn said the two water fountains on Main Street could be used as a watering trough and drinking fountain. The fountains allowed saddle horses and teams to drink from the top, while smaller animals drank from below.
The fountain was purchased in an estate auction by Byng resident Gary Haney. Haney donated the fountain to Floyd and another PAST member.
OG&E provided invaluable assistance to PAST, moving the fountain from Fittstown to Haney’s front yard on Friday. Floyd said PAST wanted the fountain kept in a safe location until it can be restored and moved to a more appropriate venue within the city limits. She listed several possible permanent locations, including the outdoor garden of PAST’s Armory museum (still in the works) or within the new Arts District area.
Floyd and the rest of PAST send out a big “thank you” to OG&E for their assistance with relocating the statue and for doing their part to help preserve history within Ada and the Pontotoc County area.

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