Windmill and Water Cistern

Fent, a determined and innovative horticulturalist, established an orchard and vineyard just south of the present highway, where he grew apples, apricots, cherries, currants, grapes, and a variety of vegetables. Irrigation for the crops came from this cistern, which was built after 1900 and also supplied water for the lawn. Until 1972 the house received its water from a nearby spring. This windmill resembles the one used to pump water into the cistern. When choosing a location for their home, the Pratts took into account the availability of water for themselves, their livestock, and their crops. There were 21 live springs and deep pools within a half-mile radius of Cottonwood Ranch.

Kansas · United States