Hi All,
A rare geological formation in this area causes groundwater, heated as it percolates into the earth, to rise through cracks in the rocks as mineral rich hot (143 degrees) water.
The area became very popular for people seeking cures for numerous ailments. In 1832 Congress named it a federal reserve. In 1921, Woodrow Wilson created Hot Springs National Park.
The early wooden Victorian bath houses succumbed to rot and fire. They were replaced, between 1911-1939, by a group of brick structures along "Bathhouse Row". This one, the Forsythe, now serves as the NPS Visitor Center.
Here's one of the soaking tubs.
Steam cabinets helped folks really work up a sweat!
How about a needle shower to excite your skin?
The different bath houses competed for clients by being more luxurious. How about a stained glass ceiling in the men's changing room
or a swanky sitting room to relax in after " Taking the Waters".
The popularity of the baths peaked in 1946 when over 67,000 people came here. By 1974 that number had plummeted to 6,500.
The Buckstaff is the only bath house still operating .
Thanks to the protection offered by its National Park status, these buildings have been preserved along with the history of the wealthy patrons, baseball players and gangsters who came here for a soak.
Love,
Sandy & Carl
Sandy & Carl
Living & Traveling in our Motorhome
Volunteering across America
617-435-8502
No comments:
Post a Comment