Richardson Springs, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richardson Springs
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 Richardson Springs
Location in California
Richardson Springs
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Butte County |
| Elevation | 620 ft (189 m) |
Richardson Springs is a small, unincorporated community in Butte County, California. It used to be known as Mud Springs. This community is located about 8.5 miles (13.7 km) north-northeast of Chico. It sits at an elevation of 620 feet (189 meters) above sea level. The area is named after J.H. and Lee Richardson. They started special health resorts, called mineral spas, here in 1898. A post office for the community opened in 1933.
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Exploring Richardson Springs' Past
The Richardson brothers built a large hotel. It was called the Richardson Springs Hotel. They finished building it in 1903. The hotel was a wooden building with 14 bedrooms. It was built on their ranch.
The Famous Healing Mud
Their ranch had an old spring that Native Americans used. The mud from this spring was believed to have special powers. People thought it could help heal cuts and skin problems. Around 1913, staying at the resort cost about $12–14 per week. You could reach the resort by a stagecoach. Stagecoaches traveled to Chico almost every day.
Hotel Challenges and Rebuilding
Sadly, the first hotel burned down in 1921. But the Richardson brothers did not give up! They quickly rebuilt it. The new hotel reopened its doors in 1924.
Natural Gas Discovery
Between 1914 and 1915, something exciting happened. Natural gas was found near Mud Creek. This gas was then piped to the resort. It was used for lighting and heating the buildings. People even thought that oil might be found nearby too.
A Place for Movie Stars and Soldiers
Richardson Springs became quite popular. Many actors from the movie The Adventures of Robin Hood visited the resort. This happened during the filming of the movie. Later, during World War II, soldiers stayed at the hotel. However, the war made it hard for people to travel. Gas and other goods were rationed. This meant fewer visitors came to the resort.
New Owners and a New Purpose
In 1956, the resort got a modern makeover. It was updated with new furniture and even a bar. But business did not improve much. So, in 1968, the property was sold. A Christian non-profit group called Springs of Living Water, Inc. bought it. Today, the hotel is owned by YWAM Chico. This is another Christian non-profit organization.
Notable People from Richardson Springs
- Andranik Ozanian, a famous Armenian national hero, passed away in Richardson Springs in 1927.
