Dive into summer with our next People of the Parks: Darby Miller and Ben Kirton.
Darby Miller moved to Austin in 2017 and quickly found her happy place: Barton Springs. “From hot day plunges to marathon training run dips, there is really nothing like it in this world.”
In addition to everyday use, Miller has made a tradition of jumping into the Springs every single birthday. Her friends gift her a pass each year, too.
When Miller’s boyfriend, Ben Kirton, moved to Austin in 2020, Miller quickly converted him to a Barton Springs lover as well. Now, you can find them at Barton Springs throughout the year.
When it came time for Kirton to pop the question, he knew he wanted it to be a surprise (Miller is the planner in their relationship). Kirton’s 30th birthday was on a Thursday and he asked Miller if they could jump in Barton Springs that morning. Miller was quick to say yes – and Kirton’s plan was in place.
To Miller’s surprise when they put their towels down at 7 a.m. to jump in, Kirton got down on one knee and asked her to spend forever with him! “I couldn’t have been more surprised and excited to take our first plunge as fiancés into Barton Springs.”
Their best friends were there to capture it all. Their favorite place now also holds their favorite memory. They’ve already planned a jump at Barton Springs on the morning of their wedding this fall as Barton Springs continues to be their forever happy place!
The People of the Parks series celebrates the deep connection Austinites feel to our outdoor spaces – and these photos and interviews might just inspire you to get out there and experience our parks for yourself. If you do, be sure to share a photo or two and tag @austinparksfdn.