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This Tour is a Thematic Tour or Heritage Trail.

Waukesha Springs Tour

Created by Nicki Ciurro on July 10th 2021, 7:07:52 pm.
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Description

From 1868 - 1914 the City of Waukesha was renown for its natural mineral springs. Across the United States and Europe, water treatments or hydropathy had gained a significant following as an alternative to traditional medicine. Cities and towns across the US capitalized on natural mineral and hot springs to attract tourists, and an emerging bottled water and soda industry. In Waukesha a shallow aquifer fed the springs providing a crisp, cool mineral water noted for it's "effervescent" quality when fresh. Dozens of companies claimed spring sites for development. Some simply used existing natural springs, that bubbled to the surface. Others dug wells to strike into the aquifer. Most spring companies invested in creating destination springs, as well as bottling. Spring houses were usually the first structures indicating a developed spring site. From simple pavilion structures to grand spring houses, dozens of springs were improved across the city. Companies invested in onsite hotels and spas complete with bath houses, walking paths, green spaces, and among other amenities. The city was transformed each summer with thousands of visitors arriving via train and carriage. Southern residents were particularly attracted to the milder northern summertime. This walking tour will take you from Bethesda Spring credited with starting the era, to the original location of White Rock Spring, the only spring brand that is still in operation today.


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