Many thanks to
Charles Brooks for sharing this stunning image of the "Spring House!"
"This picture was taken in November 1977 and it shows the cabin just as it was when my Uncle George and Aunt Emma Judson had the cabin in the 1930s. Many times, after we had visited with my great-uncle George and Aunt Emma Judson at the Spring House at Ballard Lake, we stayed and had supper with the Ballards [in Holmes]. For many years Arthur and Thursa Ballard's daughter Hattie was the U. S. Postmistress for Holmes. Oh what joy it would be to live my early life over again with family at Ballard Lake. Maybe there is a Ballard Lake in Heaven..." - Charles
During the 1950's and beyond, it was also known as the "Ponderosa," and located on the north side of Milltown Road - just up the hill a bit - overlooking the lake (see Mickey's map below). But the Ballard Crew knew it mostly as the "Spring House" because of the well, where many of us went for our drinking water. Evidence of the well is clearly visible in bottom portion of the photo. Aside from the details, however, the scene is a genuine work of art - truly magnificent, thanks to Charles!
Bobby Mitchell (L) and Peter Molloy, with Tully's cabin in the background. About 1959.
Jim Molloy (L) on "Pride," Peter Molloy on "Buddy." August 1953.
Bill (L) & Peter Molloy at "The Beach" with Tischer's dock in the background. About 1959.
Jim (L) & Dave Molloy at the Kelly's on Holmes Road. The Kelly's "boarded" various horses at their farm, and on this particular day Jim and I were apparently charged with feeding these two their daily oats. I also recall delivering "salt-licks," blocks of salt that we left in the pastures, which helped keep the horses fit and healthy. This photo was probably taken in 1953.
