Salt Sulphur Springs Historic District, 19th-century spa resort district in Monroe County, West Virginia.
Salt Sulphur Springs Historic District is a 19th-century spa resort district with seven limestone buildings, three sites, and two structures spanning 34 acres near Union. The complex includes the Stone Spring House, Sweet Sulphur Springs Site, and Iodine Spring situated along U.S. Route 219.
The district emerged after mineral springs were discovered in 1802 and rapidly became a popular therapeutic destination. Wealthy visitors from across the region traveled here to benefit from the healing properties of the springs.
The buildings display Greek Revival features with tall columns and balanced facades that reflect the taste of wealthy 19th-century spa guests. This architectural language was the signature of luxury and refinement in American resorts of that era.
The site is easily accessible along U.S. Route 219 and allows visitors to explore the various springs and buildings at their own pace. Walking through the grounds gives a good sense of the historical structures and how they are positioned.
Professor William B. Rogers from the University of Virginia scientifically analyzed the spring waters and confirmed they contained iodine. This scientific validation gave the location extra credibility as a medical destination during the 19th century.
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