Marlinton's water supply underwent significant changes throughout the early 20th century, marked by both innovation and persistent challenges. Initially, the town relied on drilled wells, with one well reaching a depth of 900 feet and producing salty water with a steady flow of gas. This well, drilled in 1907 by the town water company, became a source of fascination and speculation, with some suggesting that pumping it harder might reveal valuable resources deep underground.

However, the town's water quality proved to be a recurring issue. The water from the wells was described as "heavily laden" and containing pronounced mineral qualities. The high iron content made it unsuitable for laundry, causing staining, and posed problems for steam laundries. Some residents even resorted to hauling water from Minnehaha Springs, located ten miles away, for drinking purposes due to concerns about the taste and mineral content of the town's water.

An interesting anecdote from the town's early history involved an artesian well drilled at the courthouse, which initially produced clear and inviting water. However, upon standing, the water developed a sponge-like substance, a scum on the surface, and a black iron coating on the container walls, raising concerns about its safety.

Despite the challenges, Marlinton remained a relatively healthy place. While some residents grumbled about the water quality, the town was known for its good health overall.

Efforts were made to improve the water supply, including the development of a pumping system that delivered water into two large steel tanks on a hillside. This system provided a pressure of about 78 pounds at the hydrants, which could be increased to 100 pounds if needed. However, the pumps were prone to wear and tear, and the wells themselves showed signs of depletion. In the summer of 1924, the wells ran so low that the pumps could not lift the water, forcing the town to temporarily resort to using river water, a less desirable source.

Recognizing the need for a more reliable and sustainable solution, discussions emerged regarding a bond issue to improve the water system. The proposed bond issue in 1924 aimed to address several critical issues:

• Failing wells: The existing wells were showing signs of depletion, raising concerns about the long-term viability of the current system.
• Worn-out pumps: The pumps were nearing the end of their lifespan and required replacement or significant repairs.
• Unsuitable water quality: The high mineral content, particularly iron, made the water unsuitable for certain uses and raised concerns about its overall quality.
• Economic impact: The poor water quality was seen as a deterrent to potential residents and businesses, hindering the town's growth and prosperity.

Various alternatives were considered, including using water from McLaughlin Spring, Minnehaha Springs, or smaller springs closer to town. The debate centered around balancing cost-effectiveness with the quality and reliability of the source. While McLaughlin Spring was closer and potentially cheaper to access, its high limestone content raised concerns about its suitability for domestic use, particularly its tendency to clog hot water pipes. Minnehaha Springs, on the other hand, offered excellent water quality, but piping it from ten miles away would be significantly more expensive.

The bond issue ultimately passed, paving the way for improvements to the water system. However, the sources do not provide specific details about which source was ultimately chosen or the extent of the improvements implemented.

The evolution of Marlinton's water supply reflects a common challenge faced by many growing towns in the early 20th century: the need to balance the increasing demand for clean and reliable water with the limitations of existing infrastructure and resources. It also highlights the importance of community engagement and decision-making in addressing such critical public service needs.