 to 1855, when the Brown family emigrated and placed boxes over the sulfur, iron, and copper springs in the area. Brown Springs became a popular vacation spot for people from Clark and Dallas counties, and a Methodist campground was established in 1867. The Red Hill School, shared by Brown Springs and Donaldson, opened in 1882, and independent Brown Springs High School would close in 1931. Two sawmills were running there in the early 20th century, and the hamlet was renowned for its Independence Day celebrations.