Mineral Waters and Health Resorts in Indiana (GM-22)
Many of Indiana's natural mineral springs were used by ancient Indian tribes. French Lick Springs in Orange County probably was one of the first known to white explorers. But improvements were not made there until 1836, when the first hotel was built. Use of mineral water was most popular between 1890 and 1910, when 30 or more hotels operated at springs in the state.

Health resorts and use of mineral water began to decline by 1915. Mineral water's loss of popularity was due partly to exaggerated claims of its curative powers, partly to rapid advances in medical science, and partly to improved means of travel. Some Hoosier spas were large and lavish. West Baden Springs Hotel, for example, was considered by some to be the "eighth wonder of the world."

Our Hoosier State Beneath Us: Geomorphology