Why Did People Go to the Resorts in Napa?

Why Did people go to the resorts in Napa?

The rise of newspapers and advertising in the 19th century promoted the promise of restorative benefits from mineral hot springs, mud baths, and effervescent carbonated water. This was a global phenomenon that Gold Rush entrepreneurs eagerly capitalized upon. Napa lived up to the promise delivering bucolic vistas, Mediterranean climate, fresh air, curative mineral springs, luxury accommodations, and excellent cuisine.

Colorized postcard of a view of Mt. St. Helena
NCHS Collection

Postcard of Mt. St. Helena

Date: ca. 1909

Woman at Lemon Spring, Napa Soda Springs

Date: ca. 1890

A woman seated at Napa Soda Spring's Lemon Spring, smiling towards the camera.
NCHS Collection
Women in the mudbaths at Dr. Aalder's, one woman dressed as an attendant sits on the side of the tubs.
NCHS Collection

Dr. Aalder’s Mudbaths

Date: ca. 1920

Napa Baths

Date: ca. 1900

Image of people in the pool at the Napa Baths, in Napa California.
NCHS Collection
Men in the mudbaths at Nance's Mudbaths.
NCHS Collection

Nance’s Mudbaths

Date: ca. 1920

Woman at Napa Soda Springs Drinking Fountain

Date: ca. 1890

A woman drinks from the water fountain at Napa Soda Springs.
NCHS Collection
St. Helena Sanitarium Food Co. booth at a state fair, circa 1910.
Courtesy of St. Helena Historical Society

St. Helena Sanitarium Food Company Booth

Date: ca. 1910

Vista from Angwin

Date: ca. 1890

Courtesy of Winter Collection

Postcard of a woman standing on an overhanging rock near Angwin, Ca, colorized.
Courtesy of Winter Collection.
People in the pool at Woodworth Resort.

Woodworth Resort Hot Springs Pool

Date: ca. 1900

Courtesy of Winter Collection

View from White Cottages

Date: ca. 1890

The view from White Cottages Resort, showing a cabin, redwoods, and mountains in the distance.
NCHS Collection