The concept of a wishing well hails from European folklore and describes a well where any wish that is spoken would be granted. The idea was that water housed deities had been placed into these wells as a gift from the gods and that they would grant wishes.
Another historic tale about wishing wells involves Nordic myths. A tale known as the "Well of Wisdom" tells of Mimir, the Nordic god of wisdom. Another Nordic god named Odin came to Mimir seeking wisdom. Mimir told Odin that in order to receive the gift of wisdom he would need to throw something of value in to the well. Odin threw his right eye in to the well and acquired the wisdom to see the future and the comprehension of the reason why things must be.
The basic idea passed down over time has been that if you give something to the guardian or dweller of the wishing well, they'll pay you back by granting a wish. Traditionally, coins would be thrown into the wishing wells. Present day, a lot of people still throw pennies in to these wells to make their wishes.
You can find these wishing wells in many different places. Numerous malls still have them. There are even famous wishing wells around the world like the Upwey Wishing Well that can be found just north of Weymouth, England.
You can keep the legend of these mystical wells alive by implementing a set of wishing well plans. This will not only help preserve the legend but will also give you your own story to share regarding the process of constructing it. You'll be able to admire your work and be proud that you're keeping old traditions alive.