In the summer of 1936, the Fort Stockton Lions Club decided to create a festival to commemorate the Texas Centennial - one hundred years of statehood. The club also intended to pay tribute to the beautiful springs which contributed so much to the entire region. A member of the original Water Carnival Executive Committee wrote, "Recognition is intended, that the public, generally Fort Stockton's own residents and thousands of visitors who enjoy the facilities of Comanche Springs and James Rooney Park, may know the large part played in their enjoyment by the generous provision of the owners of the water for its free use by the public." The owners of the water were landowners in Pecos County Water District #1. Most were farmers who received the benefits of the estimated 45-65 million gallons per day of spring water flow from Comanche Springs. The first Water Carnival included a concert presented by the Fort Stockton High School Band, miniature golf in Rooney Park and swimming and diving events. The celebration was topped off by the crowning of the First Miss Fort Stockton, Sammie Lee Warnock Pfiester.

By 1940, the springs' flow was estimated at 40 million gallons per day. An increased demand on the springs was made by close to the source drilling of many water wells, vastly expanded farming and other types of water use. The springs were reduced to half of their originally estimated flow at 17 million gallons per day, by 1951. This, and a drought from 1951-1957, created great demands on the springs' water for irrigation. By 1953, the springs' flow had dropped to 3 million gallons a day and was no longer sufficient to keep the natural pool area filled. Comanche Springs ceased to flow above ground and the community built the municipal swimming pool, Comanche Springs Pool, where Water Carnival is held today.

Water Carnival has become a hallowed tradition in Fort Stockton. Many Fort Stockton High School Class Reunions are held during this time each year. We sincerely hope you join us the 3rd weekend in July, there is always something for everyone in Water Carnival.