Hot Springs History
Since the late nineteenth century, hot
springs resorts have been very fashionable in this country. "Taking the cure" is a custom which many people of foreign extraction brought over with them from the old country. Europeans
have for centuries had great faith in the curative properties of thermal spring water; great spas can be found all over Europe, and have retained their popularity to this day. The cure often
consisted of daily soaks in hot pools, additional therapy through the application of hot mud from the area, and many glasses of spring water guzzled internally for whatever good works would be wrought by its benevolent minerals.
History Outline
1849… The Spring is used in its natural state by Washoe Indians and emigrants and settlers, some of whom are making their way to the California Gold Rush.
1880… Thomas Swift purchases and
renames it "Swift's Hot Springs." Swift builds bathhouses, a clubhouse, and a hotel with rates of $10.00 to $14.00 per week.
1882… James Shaw purchases the Springs and facilities and renames it "Shaw’s Warm Springs."
1890… Shaw builds a "plunge," called the largest in the state.
1895… The resort begins bottling and selling a "new Mineral Water."
1896… The resort gains new status as opera star Miss Gracie stays at the resort.
1897… Gentleman Jim Corbett, a renowned professional prizefighter, trains and fights here.
1910… The Springs receives the name it still holds today, "Carson Hot Springs." A road is completed between the city and the resort. It continues to receive praise for having the finest water available.
1921… Prohibition is in effect. The Spring is raided by a Federal Officer in hopes of uncovering a still.
1940… The resort becomes a popular place for dancing to the sounds of the Big Bands.
1962… Don Richard Langson purchases the Springs and Resort.
1978… Richard and Michele continue to own and operate
Carson Hot Springs.
1979… The historical restaurant and bar are renovated.
1980… Water therapy and exercise programs begin.
1988… A new product is introduced, SIERRA MIST SPRING WATER, in convenient 1 1/2 liter and 1/2 liter sizes to compliment the existing line of 2 1/2 and 1 gallon sizes of Hot Springs Water.
1999... A group of investors headed by Mark Begich of Anchorage, Alaska, purchase the Springs with the goal to bring it back to its glory days.
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