Red Sulphur Springs, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Red Sulphur Springs
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 Red Sulphur Springs
Location in West Virginia
Red Sulphur Springs
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Monroe |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
Red Sulphur Springs is a small community in Monroe County, West Virginia, United States. It is an unincorporated community, which means it does not have its own local government. This place was once famous for its natural springs. People believed the water from these springs had special health benefits. Red Sulphur Springs is located along West Virginia Route 12, near Indian Creek.
History of Red Sulphur Springs
Red Sulphur Springs was known as a "watering place" as early as 1800. A watering place was like a health resort where people would visit natural springs. They believed the mineral-rich water could help with various health issues.
The Grand Hotel Era
In 1830, a doctor named William Burke from Richmond bought the springs. He decided to build a large hotel there. This hotel was quite impressive and could host up to 350 guests at a time. It became a popular spot for people to relax and seek health benefits from the springs.
Many important people visited the resort. These included Roger Taney, who was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. The Chief Justice is the highest judge in the United States. Another famous visitor was Francis Scott Key, who wrote the words to the American national anthem.
Decline and End of the Resort
The resort's success was interrupted by the American Civil War. This major conflict in American history made it difficult for people to travel and enjoy such places.
After the war, the ownership of the springs changed. It was bought by Levi Morton. He had been the Vice-President of the United States under President Benjamin Harrison. Morton tried to make the hotel even bigger and better. However, the resort eventually faced difficulties and failed.
The property was sold during World War I. This global war took place from 1914 to 1918. The land was then divided into smaller pieces. Sadly, all the grand buildings of the resort were torn down. Today, Red Sulphur Springs is a quiet community, but its history as a famous health resort remains.
