Water now flows from the historic drinking fountain on the streets outside the Providence Athenaeum after being dry for a decade. Generous donations allowed the plumbing to be replaced so that once again the ornate granite fountain is quenching the thirst of visitors. But is it safe to drink the water? It certainly won’t harm your health, but the legends swirling around drinking from the fountain may make you change your mind.

The Providence Atheneaum was dedicated in 1838. The Greek Revival style architecture formed local granite into a stunning building resembling a Greek Temple. It is an independent, member-supported library open to the public.
The Providence Athenaeum
The Gothic granite fountain in front of the library was added in 1873. Fed by the nearby Pawtuxet River, the fountain was intended to encourage people to drink more water and less beer.
The Providence Athenaeum
The historic drinking fountain is engraved with the words, "Come here everyone that thirsteth." The inscription and the sound of gurgling water tempt those who pass into drinking the water. But if you do, will you be spellbound forever?
Wikimedia Commons/I. & J.H. Palmer

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Legends dating back to the early 1900s say that anyone who drinks from the fountain will always return to Providence. Other legends spin the tale differently saying that you will never be able to leave.
The Providence Athenaeum
Locals and visitors can't seem to agree whether a sip of water traps you forever in Rhode Island or guarantees that you will always return. But as for the rumor that Edgar Allen Poe may have set the curse in motion, it's not possible. The famed author was dead years before the watering station was built.
Wikimedia Commons/Will Hart
You can drink the water outside the Providence Athenaeum at 251 Benefit St., Providence, RI.
Google Maps
For more information on the library and its history, visit their website.

Have you heard the legends surrounding this 145-year-old historic drinking fountain? Have you ever taken a drink? Share your stories below in the comments section. If your spine isn’t tingling yet, check out these six creepy urban legends.

 

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