Historic Structure Report: Fordyce Bathhouse

Copeland, Randall; Stiles, Wilson

Hot Springs National Park was once known as Hot Springs Reservation. It was set aside in 1832 to protect the Park's primary resource, the hot springs.This type of Reservation was an early version of the National Park idea.Hot Springs was actually the first area in the United States to be set aside for its natural features.After Yellowstone was formed in 1872, Hot Springs was managed with it. In 1916 the National Park Service was formed and in 1921, Hot Springs Reservation changed its name to Hot Springs National Park, making it the 18th National Park in the Service. This Historic Structure Report concerns the Fordyce Bathhouse. The Fordyce Bathhouse stands as the most ornate structure at the heart of an ensemble of bathhouses collectively known as "Bathhouse Row." These eight structures, built between 1911-1923, lie within the center of downtown Hot Spring and are the focal point for interpreting the park's primary and legislated resource--its thermal water. It is because of the preeminence of the Fordyce Bathhouse that it was selected for conversion into the park visitor center. The Fordyce represents the height of the development of therapeutic bathing and its range of treatment procedures. In addition, it reflects an era of architectural exuberance and luxury most often associated with turn-of-the-century movie palaces, hotels and train stations. The Fordyce exhibits a significant level of integrity of design, material, workmanship, feeling, and association.

Historic Structure Report: Fordyce Bathhouse

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