Image: Bimini Hot Springs, Los Angeles, Cal. (cropped)

Description: An exterior view of the Bimini Hot Springs building in Los Angeles, California. The side of the building reads, "Bimini Hot Springs, School of Swimming, Learn to Swim Gracefully." The building is surrounded by trees, with grassy open space behind it. The Bimini Baths were located near Third Street and Vermont Avenue, just west of downtown Los Angeles. Named for the island home of the legendary fountain of youth pursued by Ponce de Leon, the bath house opened in 1903, and was the property of a Dr. David W. Edwards. The hot springs were discovered when prospectors drilling for oil instead tapped into a mineral hot springs. Dr. Edwards built a large wooden building that housed a 50-yard main pool, as well as a separate pool for women, and several private, individual pools. There was a cafe and a balcony for observers near the main pool. The original building was destroyed by fire in November of 1905, but rebuilt the following year as a Mission-style structure designed by architect Thornton Fitzhugh. New features included a Turkish Bath area, two 40 by 40 foot pools for private parties, and rooftop gardens and balconies. The bath house was easily accessible by street car, and offered swimming lessons and hosted competitions in swimming and water polo. In 1951, however, the business went bankrupt and the building was demolished five years later. On back: "Bimini Hot Springs. The velvet bath. Where health and pleasure meet. Swimming Pools and Medical treatment Department. Write for descriptive literature."
Title: Bimini Hot Springs, Los Angeles, Cal. (cropped)
Credit: Calisphere (details)
Author: Unknown creatorUnknown creator
Usage Terms: Public domain
License: Public domain
Attribution Required?: No