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Eureka Springs History
 Eureka
Springs...Always a place devoted to rest and recuperation. It began
with the discovery of healing power in the springs and developed rapidly
as people rushed to the site, drawn by the promise of good health. They
founded and named the new resort on July 4, 1879, after the phrase,
"Eureka! I have found it!"
The people who chose to make the "City That Water Built" their
new home in those early years were unanimous in their belief that Eureka
Springs existed for a primary purpose - to be a place of healing.
The first businesses established were those of a spa, bath houses and
resort hotels. Later, the streets were lined with shops offering everything
from necessities to souvenirs, fashionable millinery and current clothing
styles.
Health seekers came from all walks of life. Many were well-educated
and committed to the latest styles of fashion and architecture. Eureka
Springs became a fashionable place to be and be seen. They built their
homes and businesses to reflect this. A former union general and governor
of Arkansas built the Crescent Hotel that became the socialite center
of Eureka Springs. Wealthy visitors came to recuperate and be pampered
in luxury surroundings.
The coming of the railroad secured Eureka Springs as one of the premier
resorts of the Victorian era. Visitors were met at the depot by handsome
trolley cars or horse drawn carriages. They were conveyed through gas-lined
streets to fine hotels. During a stay at "The Springs," guests
found ease for physical ailments. An additional bonus was a busy social
life! They enjoyed grand musicales and literary evenings in hotels and
homes, plus excellent theatrical productions at the Opera House.
There were concerts in the park at Basin Spring. Sightseeing parties
on horseback or aboard tally-ho wagons were themselves charming sights
as they explored the beautiful scenery of the countryside.
Daily occupation at the resort was to partake of the healing spring
waters. Visitors were encouraged to drink as much of the water as possible.
Entertainment centered around restorative outdoor exercise, walking
about the steep streets from spring to spring, visiting friends. A popular
souvenir of the time was a hand-carved walking stick.
A natural progression occurred over time and bed and breakfasts sprung
up in many of the large Victorian homes that were once occupied by the
wealthy citizens of Eureka Springs. Eureka Springs bed and breakfasts
still offer a soothing respite from today's daily grind and remind us
of a slower, more elegant time.
The wholesome atmosphere of early Eureka Springs as a place of relaxation
and rejuvenation continues to this day. Discover the qualities that
made Eureka Springs famous. Admire the spectacular natural beauty, the
unusual architecture and enjoy wonderful Eureka Springs hospitality
while you rest, relax and rejuvenate.
~ Adults Only ~ Non-Smoking ~ Visa, MC, AX, Discover ~
~ In-Room Phones ~ Wireless Internet ~ On City Trolley Route ~
~ Gift Shop ~ Small Intimate Weddings ~
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