The native Miami Indians had settled in the springs area for generations before white settlers came to the area, for much the same reason, the vast abundance of fresh drinking waters. It is recorded that Father Marquette had been taken to this location by the Miami's for the waters to be used towards the healing of an illness that he was afflicted with in one of his sojourns through the region. Colonel Eastman also found evidence of weapon and tool making sites in the springs ravine, and that there were numerous artifacts of these kinds in the area, indicating a possible large settlement at one time. Today the Israelite Community has undertaken a restoration project to bring back the springs area with nature trails leading through the beautiful woodland acres of the Eastman Estate. None of the original dwellings are standing, and the forest has reclaimed the property, which has recreated the sense of its original picturesque beauty.
Several trails wind through the springs with bridges that ford the creek bed in the ravine.
Psyche and the Colonel's Own have also been located along with Silver King. Vegetarian Luncheon setting at the Gate of Prayer Synagogue, part of the special events at Mary's City of David. See Present Day Page for information and details. We, at the Museum and Tours in Mary's City of David, would be very pleased to receive any written memories of events and wonderful memories at either or both Israelite colonies. We have thought to assemble a collection book of stories and anecdotes from those that wish to share an interesting, unusual, or just plain nice 'ole story about a visit with us over the many years.