the story
The Headwaters Soap Collection from Old Factory is a Texas tribute to the iconic springs of the Hill Country. Emerging forth from the jagged beauty of the Balcones Fault Zone, the crystal-clear, limestone filtered, artesian springs of this region have inspired people to gather at these waters for over ten thousand years. We have teamed up with 4 local water conservation non-profits to create a product that gives back, and shares the beauty and spirit of these places.
The waters at these springs ranges from 68 – 72 degrees fahrenheit making them renowned for their coolness in the summer and their warmth in the winter. They are also cherished for their purity, clarity and the diversity of life they support.
Indigenous tribes consider these life-giving springs to be absolutely sacred. There are ancient cave paintings, such as the White Shaman Panel in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands, which accurately depict the locations of these four springs and their importance to all the peoples and creatures of these lands.
the soap
Each bar in this collection was made with water from one of these four chosen springs: Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Jacobs Well Spring, and Comal Springs.
At Old Factory, we understand that there is only so much water on Planet Earth and water conservation is of utmost importance to the future of Central Texas and the world. That is why a portion of the proceeds from each one of these bars sold will be donated to the non-profit organizations that help protect and inspire stewardship for each one of these special springs.
10% OF ALL SALES WILL BE DONATED
TO ORGANIZATIONS THAT PROTECT THESE WATERS
the headwaters soap collection
barton springs soap
People have been dipping into the clear, refreshing water of Barton Springs for over 10,000 years. The cool waters flow from the karst caverns of the Edwards Aquifer. Learn more.
Jacobs well springs soap
A jewel of the Texas Hill Country Jacobs Well originates from the Middle Trinity Aquifer. Jacob’s Well is the second-longest aquatic cave in the state of Texas. Learn more.
comal springs soap
The Comal Springs are the largest network of springs in the American Southwest. They were a sacred gathering place for many indigenous tribes for thousands of years. Learn More
San Marcos springs soap
The San Marcos Springs is one of the oldest continually inhabited locations in North America. In the Coahuiltecan tribe’s creation story, they were born out of these springs. Learn more.
This collection is truly special. Every soap is made with artesian water from the headwaters of 4 of the most iconic springs in Central Texas. We have teamed up with 4 local water conservation non-profits to create a product that gives back. A portion of the proceeds from every single bar sold will be donated to the organizations that help protect the lands and waters which are vital to the health and continuity of these springs. In addition, the packaging for every bar contains intriguing facts about each spring and is made with 100% recyclable materials. To learn more about what you can do in your home to help conserve water and help your local springs, visit the websites of these organizations.
ince 1979, the Save Barton Creek Association has worked to protect Barton Springs and the six watersheds of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer. A portion of the proceeds from every bar of Barton Springs Soap sold will be donated to the Save Barton Creek Association.
learn more about save barton creek association
The Wimberley Valley Watershed Association was established in 1996 to keep Jacob’s Well and the many springs, creeks, and rivers clean, clear, and flowing for generations to come through scientific research and community engagement. A portion of proceeds from every bar of the Jacob’s Well Soap will be donated to WVWA to continue their efforts in watershed protection across the Hill Country.
learn more about wimberley valley watershed association
The Headwaters at the Comal non-profit is working to strengthen the relationship between the community and nature by restoring the 16 acre property at the headwaters springs of the Comal River. The restoration will include a premiere education center where people can learn, have fun & experience history and nature. The site showcases the significance of the Comal Springs and inspires hearts and minds on the importance of conservation to community. A portion of the proceeds from every Comal Springs Soap sold will be donated to the Headwaters at the Comal.
learn more about headwaters at the comal
The San Marcos River Foundation has been protecting the spring flow, water quality and beauty of the San Marcos River since 1985. A portion of proceeds from every bar of San Marcos Springs Soap sold will be donated to the San Marcos River Foundation.
learn more about san Marcos river foundation