The “falls” of Wichita Falls were constructed after nearly a century of visitors searching for the town’s namesake, left only to be disappointed. The original falls were located up stream on the east side of town. In 1886 a flood passed over the town, taking the 4 feet roaring falls with it. Wichita Falls was left fallsless for too long. The natives became restless until then Mayor Charles Harper stepped up with a plan to “Put the falls back in Wichita Falls”. He called it a symbol of hope for the community and was able to raise $400,000 through private fund-raising. The 54 foot, man-made structure was completed in 1986 and revealed at the 2nd annual “Falls Fest”. Now when visitors come seeking out the falls, they don’t have to search for long. Located right off southbound I-44, the new falls are impossible to miss and are easily accessed through the service road or a walk through Lucy Park. PHOTO: mid construction, 1987
