Bailey Springs, Alabama facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bailey Springs, Alabama
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 Bailey Springs, Alabama
Location in Alabama
Bailey Springs, Alabama
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Alabama |
| County | Lauderdale |
| Elevation | 525 ft (160 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Area codes | 256 & 938 |
| GNIS feature ID | 113361 |
Bailey Springs, also known as Chalybeate Springs, is a small, unincorporated community in Lauderdale County, Alabama, United States. An "unincorporated community" means it's a place where people live, but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town.
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History of Bailey Springs
Bailey Springs has an interesting past, especially because of its special water springs.
Early Days and the Springs
A post office, a place where mail is sent and received, opened in Bailey Springs in 1854. It stayed open for many years until 1901. The community got its name from Jonathan Bailey. He started a resort there, which is like a vacation spot, because of the natural mineral springs in the area.
The water from these springs was thought to have healing powers. People even called some of the water "chalybeate" (pronounced ka-LIB-ee-at), which means it had a lot of iron in it. Many people, especially from nearby Memphis, Tennessee, came to Bailey Springs hoping the water would help them feel better. At one point, the spring water was even bottled and sent to different places across the United States! The resort and hotel at the springs were popular until 1910.
Bailey Springs University
An important school for women, called Bailey Springs University, was started on the resort grounds in 1893. This university offered education to women during a time when such opportunities were less common. It was open for several years before closing in 1900.
Civil War Connection
During the American Civil War, which was a major conflict in the United States, soldiers from the 7th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment camped at Bailey Springs. This shows that the area was a known location even during important historical events.
Notable Person from Bailey Springs
One famous person connected to Bailey Springs is Henry W. Collier. He was the 14th Governor of Alabama, which means he was the leader of the state government. Governor Collier passed away in Bailey Springs on August 28, 1855.
