PART I._Saratoga and How to See It

The Analysis, History and Properties

OF THE

MINERAL SPRINGS.

* * * * *

THE

Mineral Springs of Saratoga.

The region of Mineral Springs in Eastern New York consists of a long,

shallow and crescent-shaped valley, extending northeast from Ballston,

its western horn, to Quaker Springs, its eastern extremity. The entire

valley abounds in mineral fountains of more or less merit, and in the

central portion bubble up the Waters of Healing, which have given to

SARATOGA its world-wide celebrity.

Professor CHANDLER, of the Columbia School of Mines, thus

describes the

Geology of the County.

"Beginning with the uppermost, the rocks of Saratoga county

are:

1. The Hudson river and Utica shales and slates.

2. The Trenton limestone.

3. The calciferous sand rock, which is a silicious limestone.

4. The Potsdam sand stone; and

5. The Laurentian formation of gneiss and granite, of unknown

thickness.

"The northern half of the county is occupied by the elevated

ranges of Laurentian rocks; flanking these occur the Potsdam,

Calciferous and Trenton beds, which appear in succession in

parallel bands through the central part of the county. These

are covered in the southern half of the county by the Utica and

Hudson river slates and shales.

[Illustration: GEOLOGICAL SECTION AT SARATOGA SPRINGS.]

"The most remarkable feature is, however, the break, or

vertical fissure, which occurs in the Saratoga valley, which

you see indicated in the cut. Notice, especially, the fact that

the strata on one side of the fissure have been elevated above

their original position, so that the Potsdam sandstone on the

left meets the edges of the calciferous sand rock, and even the

Trenton limestone on the right. It is in the line of this

fissure, or _fault_, in the towns of Saratoga and Ballston that

the springs occur.

"The Laurentian rocks, consisting of highly crystalline gneiss,

granite and syenite, are almost impervious, while the overlying

Potsdam sandstone is very porous, and capable of holding large

quantities of water. In this rock the mineral springs of

Saratoga probably have their origin. The surface waters of the

Laurentian hills, flowing down over the exposed edges of the

Potsdam beds, penetrate the porous sandstones, become saturated

with mineral matter, partly derived, perhaps, from the

limestones above, and are forced to the surface at a lower

level, by hydrostatic pressure. The valley in which the springs

all occur indicates the line of a fault or fracture in the

rocky crust, the strata on the west side of which are hundreds

of feet above the corresponding strata on the east.

"The mineral waters probably underlie the southern half of the

entire county, many hundred feet below the surface; the

accident of the fault determining their appearance as springs

in the valley of Saratoga Springs, where, by virtue of the

greater elevation of their distant source, they reach the

surface through crevices in the rocks produced by the fracture.

"It is probable that water can be obtained anywhere in the

southern portion of the county by tapping the underlying

Potsdam sandstone. In these wells the water usually rises to

and above the surface. Down in the rocky reservoir the water

is charged with gases under great pressure. As the water is

forced to the surface, the pressure diminishes, and a portion

of gas escapes with effervescence. The spouting wells deliver,

therefore, enormous volumes of gas with the water, a perfect

suds of water, carbonic acid and carburetted hydrogen.

"The common origin of the springs is shown by the analysis: all

contain the same constituents in essentially the same order of

abundance; they differ in the degree of concentration merely.

Those from the deepest strata are the most concentrated. The

constituents to which the taste of the water and its most

immediate medicinal effects are due, are: Chloride of sodium,

bicarbonate of lime, bicarbonate of magnesia, bicarbonate of

soda and free carbonic acid. Other important, though less

speedily active, constituents are: Bicarbonate of iron,

bicarbonate of lithia, iodide of sodium and bromide of sodium."

The solvent power which holds all these solid substances in solution,

and which contributes to their agreeable taste, is the carbonic acid

gas with which the water is so freely charged. This free carbonic acid

gas is probably formed by the decomposition of the carbonates which

compose the rock. The water, impregnated with it, becomes a powerful

solvent, and, passing through different strata, absorbs the various

mineral substances which compose its solid constituents.

General Properties.

Writers upon mineral springs generally divide them into the following

classes: Carbonated or acidulous, saline, chalybeate or iron,

alkaline, sulphur or hepatic, bitter and thermal springs.

The Saratoga waters embrace nearly all of these except the last two;

some of the springs being saline, some chalybeate, some sulphur, and

nearly all carbonated; and in the list may be found cathartic,

alterative, diuretic and tonic waters of varied shade and differing

strength. The cathartic waters are the most numerous and the most

extensively used. The curative agents prepared in the vast and

mysterious laboratories of Nature are very complex in constitution and

different in temperature, and on that account do not, like iron,

opium, quinia, etc., exhibit single effects; they exercise rather,

with rare exceptions, combined effects, and these are again modified

by various modes of employment and the time and circumstances of their

use.

The Discovery of the Springs.

All the older springs have been found in beds of blue marl, or clay

rather, which cover the valley more or less throughout its whole

extent. On digging into this clay to any considerable depth, we are

pretty certain to find traces of mineral water. In some places, at the

depth of six or eight feet, it has been discovered issuing from a

fissure or seam in the underlying limestone, while at other places it

seems to proceed from a thin stratum of quicksand which is found to

alternate with the marl at distances of from ten to forty feet, below

which bowlders of considerable size are found.

The spouting springs have been found by experimental boring. As this

is the cheapest and more certain method, it is "the popular thing" at

present, and the day may not be far distant when all Saratoga will be

punched through with artesian wells reaching hundreds of feet, if not

through to China, and thus an open market made for the Saratoga waters

among "the Heathen Chinee."

Mr. Jessie Button, to whom we are indebted for both the Glacier and

the Geyser springs, seems best to understand the process of

successfully boring artesian wells, having made these his special

study and profession. Like Moses of old, he strikes, or taps, the rock

and behold streams of water gush forth.

Are the Springs Natural?

Is a question that will probably seem absurd to those who are at all

familiar with mineral springs or Saratoga waters. Nevertheless, it is

a not unfrequent and amusing occurrence to hear remarks from strangers

and greenies who have a preconceived notion that the springs are

doctored, and that a mixture of salts, etc., is tipped in every night

or early in the morning! Strange that the art should be limited to the

village of Saratoga! The _incredulity_ of some people is the most

ridiculous credulity known. Such wonders as the spouting springs, the

"strongest" in Saratoga, come from so small an orifice in the ground,

as to preclude the least possibility of adulteration. Besides, the

manufactured article would be too costly to allow such immense

quantities to flow away unused.

But to argue this question would be a _reductio ad absurdum_. _Nature

is far better than the laboratory._ Artificial waters may simulate the

natural in taste and appearance, but fall far short of their

therapeutic effects.

The Commercial Value

Of the various springs differs as widely as does people's estimate of

their individual merits. Spring water property is very expensive. It

costs large sums of money to manage some of the springs. The old

method of tubing, by sinking a curb, may cost several thousand

dollars, and is uncertain then. Moreover, it is no small work to keep

the springs in perfect repair, and in a clean and pure condition.

The artesian wells cost not far from $6 per foot for the boring, and

are much less expensive.

Most of the springs are owned by stock companies, with a capital

ranging from several hundred thousand to a million dollars. _On dit_

that the proprietors of the Geyser Spring were offered $175,000 for

their fountain, and probably the Congress could not be purchased for

quadruple that amount. It would not be a _very_ profitable bargain if

some of the springs could be bought for a song, even, and yet there is

not enough mineral water in all the springs now discovered in the

Saratoga valley to supply New York alone, if artificial waters were to

be abandoned. The only profit of the springs is in the sale of the

water in bottles and barrels; and as the method of bottling requires

great care, and is expensive, the per cent. of profit is not enormous.

The use of mineral water, both as a beverage and for medicinal

purposes, is increasing, and there may be "a good time coming," when

these springs will bring wealth to the owner as they give health to

the drinker.

The Medicinal Value of the Waters.

There is no doubt of their power to promote evacuations of effete

accumulations from the kidneys, skin and bowels.

Dr. Draper, an eminent physician, in speaking of the springs, says:

"They restore suppressed, and correct vitiated secretions, and so

renovate health, and are also the means of introducing many medicines

into the system in a state of minute subdivision, in which they exert

a powerful alterative and curative action."

The value of mineral water has been shown in the treatment of obscure

and chronic diseases. In many instances persons have been restored to

health, or greatly relieved, by the use of mineral waters when all

other remedies had proved of no avail.

The best known waters are now prescribed by the faculty in certain

diseases with as much confidence as any preparation known to the

apothecary. Indeed, no prescription is known equally beneficial to

such differently made patients.

A large majority of those who resort to the springs for their health

have tried other means of cure without relief.

It may also be considered a marked compliment to the medicinal

properties of the waters, that the thousands who come here for

pleasure merely, living fast and indulging in dissipation while here,

return to their homes in better health--as they almost always do--than

when they came.

Unlike certain other springs, whose wonderful properties and vaunted

cures are found in pompous advertisements, the Saratoga waters have

not made their celebrity by printer's ink. Their reputation has

depended upon their own intrinsic merits, and steadily and surely has

their renown advanced.

To repeat all the disorders which they have been known to benefit,

would be very nearly to copy the sad list of ailments to which our

creaky frames are subject.

In short, spring water is good for the stomach, good for the skin,

good for ladies of all possible ages, and for all sorts and conditions

of men.

Individual Characteristics.

In stating the special properties of the individual springs, we have

conscientiously endeavored to make this work as reliable and accurate

as possible. Those who are familiar with the reputation and claims of

some of the several springs in past years will notice many changes,

but it is believed that the information herein given is on the best

authority, and brought down to the latest date.

_The Analyses of the Saratoga Waters,

by C.F. Chandler, Ph.D., of the Columbia School of Mines._

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Chloride of sodium | 398.361 | 390.127 | 134.291 | 459.903 | 141.872

Chloride of potassium | 9.695 | 8.974 | 1.335 | 7.660 | 8.624

Bromide of sodium | 0.571 | 0.731 | 0.630 | 0.987 | 0.844

Iodide of sodium | 0.126 | 0.086 | 0.031 | 0.071 | 0.047

Bicarbonate of lithia | 1.586 | 1.967 | 0.899 | 9.486 | 4.847

Bicarbonate of soda | 12.662 | 34.888 | 29.428 | 3.764 | 4.666

Bicarbonate of magnesia | 61.912 | 54.924 | 40.339 | 76.267 | 72.883

Bicarbonate of lime | 124.459 | 131.739 | 89.869 | 120.169 | 93.119

Bicarbonate of baryta | 0.096 | 0.494 | Trace. | 0.875 | 0.909

Bicarbonate of iron | 1.213 | 1.478 | 1.703 | 2.570 | 0.714

Sulphate of potassa | 5.400 | 1.608 | 0.557 | 2.032 | Trace.

Alumina | Trace. | 1.223 | 0.374 | 0.329 | 0.094

Silica | 1.283 | 2.260 | 2.561 | 3.155 | 3.184

Organic Matter | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. Trace. | Trace.

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

U.S. gallon, 231 cu. in.| 617.367 | 630.500 | 302.017 | 687.275 | 331.837

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Carbonate acid gas | 407.650 | 409.458 | 324.080 | 332.458 | 245.734

Density | 1.0091 | 1.0092 | 1.0034 | 1.0095 | 1.0035

Temperature | 52°F. | 52°F. | 50°F. | ... | ...

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Compounds as they exist | Hathorn | Crystal |Congress | Geyser

in Solution in the Waters. | Spring. | Spring. | Spring. |spouting

(Continued) | | | | well.

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Chloride of sodium | 509.968 | 328.468 | 400.444 | 562.080

Chloride of potassium | 9.597 | 8.327 | 8.049 | 42.634

Bromide of sodium | 1.534 | 0.414 | 8.559 | 2.212

Iodide of sodium | 0.198 | 0.066 | 0.138 | 0.248

Fluoride of calcium | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | Trace.

Bicarbonate of lithia | 11.447 | 4.326 | 4.761 | 7.004

Bicarbonate of soda | 4.288 | 10.064 | 10.775 | 71.232

Bicarbonate of magnesia | 176.463 | 75.161 | 121.757 | 149.343

Bicarbonate of lime | 170.646 | 101.881 | 143.339 | 170.392

Bicarbonate of strontia | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | 0.425

Bicarbonate of baryta | 1.737 | 0.726 | 0.928 | 2.014

Bicarbonate of iron | 1.128 | 2.038 | 0.340 | 0.979

Sulphate of potassa | Trace. | 2.158 | 0.889 | 0.318

Phosphate of soda | 0.006 | 0.009 | 0.016 | Trace.

Biborate of soda | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | Trace.

Alumina | 0.131 | 0.305 | Trace. | Trace.

Silica | 1.260 | 3.213 | 0.840 | 0.665

Organic Matter | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | Trace.

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Total per | | | |

U.S. gallon, 231 cu. in.| 888.403 | 537.155 | 700.895 | 991.546

---------------------------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Carbonate acid gas | 375.747 | 317.452 | 392.289 | 454.082

Density | 1.0115 | 1.0060 | 1.096 | 1.0120

Temperature | ... | 50°F. | 52°F. | 46°F.

-----------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

-----------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Potassium | 7.496 | 5.419 | 0.949 | 4.931 | 4.515

Sodium | 160.239 | 163.216 | 61.003 | 182.084 | 57.259

Lithium | 0.163 | 0.202 | 0.093 | 0.976 | 0.499

Lime | 43.024 | 45.540 | 31.066 | 41.540 | 32.189

Baryta | 0.056 | 0.292 | Trace. | 0.517 | 0.537

Magnesia | 16.992 | 15.048 | 11.051 | 20.895 | 19.968

Protoiyde of iron | 0.491 | 0.598 | 0.689 | 1.040 | 0.289

Alumina | Trace. | 1.223 | 0.374 | 0.329 | 0.094

Chlorine | 246.357 | 241.017 | 82.128 | 282.723 | 90.201

Bromine | 0.443 | 0.568 | 0.489 | 0.767 | 0.656

Iodine | 0.106 | 0.072 | 0.026 | 0.060 | 0.039

Sulphuric acid | 2.483 | 0.739 | 0.256 | 0.934 | Trace.

carbonates | 56.606 | 62.555 | 44.984 | 60.461 | 50.380

bicarbonates | 56.606 | 62.555 | 44.984 | 60.461 | 50.380

Silica | 1.283 | 2.260 | 2.561 | 3.155 | 3.184

Water in bicarbonates | 23.160 | 25.591 | 18.405 | 24.736 | 20.613

Oxygen in KO (SO_{3}). | 0.496 | 0.148 | 0.051 | 0.187 | ...

(HO_{2} CO_{2})| 0.187 | 0.232 | 0.105 | 1.116 | 0.570

(HO_{2} CO_{2}) | 1.206 | 3.323 | 2.803 | 0.358 | 0.444

(HO, PO_{5})| ... | ... | ... | 0.001 | 0.002

+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

231 cu. in.| 617.367 | 630.500 | 302.007 | 687.275 | 331.837

+---------+---------+---------+---------+--------

evaporation| 537.600 | 542.350 | 238.970 | 602.080 | 260.840

-----------------------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Bases and Acids as | Hathorn | Crystal | Congress| Geyser

actually found in the | Spring. | Spring. | Spring. |spouting

Analysis uncombined | | | | well.

(Continued) | | | |

-----------------------+---------+---------+---------+--------

Potassium | 5.024 | 5.326 | 4.611 | 13.039

Sodium | 102.058 | 132.006 | 162.324 | 251.031

Lithium | 1.179 | 0.445 | 0.490 | 0.720

Lime | 58.989 | 35.218 | 49.569 | 58.901

Strontia | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | 0.211

Baryta | 1.026 | 0.429 | 0.549 | 1.190

Magnesia | 48.346 | 20.592 | 33.358 | 40.915

Protoiyde of iron | 0.456 | 0.824 | 0.137 | 0.396

Alumina | 0.131 | 0.305 | Trace. | Trace

Chlorine | 214.037 | 203.292 | 246.834 | 352.825

Bromine | 1.188 | 0.322 | 6.645 | 1.718

Iodine | 0.166 | 0.055 | 0.117 | 0.208

Fluorine | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | Trace

Sulphuric acid | Trace. | 0.992 | 0.409 | 0.146

Phosphoric acid | 0.003 | 0.004 | 0.008 | Trace

Boracic acid | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | Trace

Carbonic acid in | | | |

carbonates | 04.928 | 54.984 | 80.249 | 112.880

Carbonic acid for | | | |

bicarbonates | 04.928 | 54.984 | 80.249 | 112.880

Silica | 1.260 | 3.213 | 0.840 | 0.665

Organic matter | Trace. | Trace. | Trace. | Trace

Water in bicarbonates | 42.929 | 22.496 | 33.828 | 46.183

Oxygen in KO (SO_{3}) | ... | 0.199 | 0.082 | 0.029

Oxygen in LiO | | | |

(HO_{2} CO_{2})| 1.347 | 0.509 | 0.560 | 0.824

Oxygen in NaO | | | |

(HO_{2} CO_{2}) | 0.408 | 0.959 | 1.024 | 6.785

Oxygen in 2 NaO | | | |

(HO, PO_{5})| 0.001 | ... | .002 | ...

+---------+---------+---------+--------

Total per U.S. gallon, | | | |

231 cu. in.| 688.403 | 537.155 | 700.895 | 991.546

+---------+---------+---------+--------

Total residue by | | | |

evaporation| 540.550 | 439.670 | 588.818 | 832.483

WATERS OF SARATOGA COUNTY, N.Y.

_Table showing the total quantities of mineral matter left by

evaporation, and of some of the more important constituents._

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

| Total solids

| as left by

| evaporation.

| | Chlorides of

| | sodium and

| | potassium.

| | | All other solids

| | | left by evaporation;

| | | carbonates of lime,

| | | magnesia, etc.

| | | | Bicarbonate

| | | | of lime (CaO,

| | | | HO, 2CO_{2}).

| | | | | HO, 2CO_{2}).

SPRING. | | | | | \ 2CO_{2}).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

well | 832.48 | 586.71 | 245.77 | 170.39 | 149.34 | 0.98

Hathorn spring | 740.55 | 519.55 | 221.00 | 170.65 | 176.46 | 1.13

Hamilton spring | 611.71 | 411.00 | 200.71 | 144.84 | 104.80 | 1.80

Congress spring | 588.82 | 408.49 | 180.33 | 143.40 | 121.76 | 0.34

High Rock spring | 542.35 | 399.10 | 143.25 | 131.74 | 54.92 | 1.48

Washington spring | 353.23 | 215.00 | 138.23 | 110.23 | 40.56 | 2.40

Excelsior spring | 611.05 | 473.00 | 138.05 | 90.38 | 72.27 | 2.84

Pavilion spring | 602.08 | 467.56 | 134.51 | 120.17 | 76.73 | 2.57

Putnam spring | 354.79 | 220.50 | 134.27 | 110.72 | 60.01 | 3.97

Columbian spring | 353.08 | 219.00 | 134.08 | 104.89 | 78.05 | 3.26

Star spring | 537.60 | 408.05 | 129.55 | 124.46 | 61.91 | 1.21

Crystal spring | 459.67 | 336.79 | 122.88 | 101.88 | 75.16 | 2.04

Eureka spring | 280.16 | 171.00 | 119.16 | 94.02 | 63.75 | 3.36

spring | 260.84 | 150.49 | 110.35 | 93.12 | 72.88 | 0.71

Empire spring | 460.32 | 355.16 | 105.16 | 113.54 | 48.10 | 1.34

Seltzer spring | 238.97 | 135.62 | 103.35 | 89.87 | 40.34 | 1.70

Red spring | 155.53 | 73.50 | 82.03 | 79.80 | 27.84 | 2.51

Ballston | 153.09 | 75.00 | 78.09 | 65.08 | 21.59 | 2.00

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Individuals have their preferences, and opinions may differ in regard

to the relative value of the springs, particularly when parties are

interested in them. We have no interest in one more than in all, and

have brought to our task, we believe, no partiality. The manuscript

has been submitted to leading physicians of Saratoga before

publication, and is approved by them. The arrangement is alphabetical.

CONGRESS SPRING.

In Congress Park, opposite Grand Central Hotel. Congress and Empire

Spring Company are the proprietors. The New York office is at 94

Chambers street.

History.

Congress Spring was discovered in 1792, by a party of three gentlemen,

who were out upon a hunting excursion. Among the party was John Taylor

Gilman, an ex-member of Congress from New Hampshire. Probably in that

day, office conferred more honor than at the present time, and as a

compliment to so distinguished a person, the spring was then and there

christened the Congress. The attention of the hunters was attracted to

the spot by the foot-prints of large numbers of deer, the first

patrons, it seems, of the sparkling water. Although more especially

esteemed by pretty dears of a different character at the present day,

the liquid-eyed fawn, who grace Congress Park, are among those who

take their daily rations. At the time of discovery, the low ground

about the spring was a mere swamp, and the country in the immediate

vicinity a wilderness. The mineral water issued in a small stream from

an aperture in the side of the rock, which formed the margin of a

small brook, and was caught by pressing a glass to the side of the

rock. The flow of water was only about one quart per minute.

From the date of its discovery to the present time this celebrated

spring has been the center of attraction at Saratoga. Its name has

become a household word through out the land, and the whole civilized

world are its customers.

At one time Mr. Putnam had three large potash kettles evaporating the

water. The salts thus precipitated were sold in small packages to the

amount of several hundred dollars. It was not long, however, before it

was discovered that _Congress water_ was not obtained by re-dissolving

the salts, as might have been expected if the nature of the water had

been considered.

About the year 1820, Dr. John Clarke, the proprietor of the first soda

fountain opened in this country, purchased the Congress Spring

property. By him the water was first bottled for transportation and

sale, and to him the village is indebted for much of its beauty and

attractiveness.

The simple and tasteful Doric colonnade over the Congress, and the

pretty Grecian dome over the Columbian were erected by him. Dr. Clarke

realized a handsome income from the sale of the water. He died in

1846, but the property continued in the hands of his heirs, under the

firm name of Clarke & White, until 1865, when it was purchased by an

incorporated company, under the title of "Congress and Empire Spring

Company." The capital is $1,000,000, and the company is composed of a

large number of individual stockholders. The present proprietors of

Congress Spring have contributed not a little to the beauty and

attractiveness of this favorite watering place.

[Illustration: CONGRESS SPRING.]

Properties.

When taken before breakfast the water is a very pleasant and effective

cathartic. Drank in moderate quantities throughout the day, it is a

delightful, wholesome beverage, its effects being alterative and

slightly tonic. It is successfully used in affections of the liver

and kidneys; and for chronic constipation, dyspepsia and gout it is

highly valued. It has been employed in cases of renal calculi with

decidedly beneficial results.

Crowds gather round the fountain in the early summer morning to win

appetite for breakfast and life for the pleasures of the day. Old and

young, sick and well, everybody, drinks, for the Congress fountain is

as much the morning exchange as the ball-room is the resort of the

evening.

Prof. G.F. Chandler, the leading chemist in America, says: "The

peculiar excellence of the far-famed Congress spring is due to the

fact that it contains very much less iron than any other spring, and

that it contains, in the most desirable proportions, those substances

which produce its agreeable flavor and satisfactory medicinal effects;

neither holding them in excess, nor lacking in anything that is

desirable in this class of waters."

In submitting a new analysis (which appears elsewhere) Prof. Chandler

writes,--"A comparison of this with the analysis made by Dr. John H.

Steel in 1832, proves that Congress water still retains its original

strength, and all the virtues which established its well merited

reputation." Higher authority there is none.

Bottling the Water.

It should be remembered that the water of this spring is sold in

_bottles only_. What purports to be Congress water for sale on draught

in various places throughout the country is not genuine. The

artificial preparations thus imposed upon the public may have a

certain resemblance in taste and appearance, but are frequently worse

than worthless for medicinal purposes.

COLUMBIAN SPRING.

In Congress Park, under the Grecian Dome, near the Congress spring,

Congress and Empire Spring Co., proprietors.

[Illustration: COLUMBIAN SPRING.]

History and Peculiarities.

This spring was opened in 1806 by Gideon Putnam. The water issues from

the natural rock about seven feet below the surface of the ground, and

is protected by heavy wooden tubing. It is the most popular spring

among the residents of Saratoga. The escaping bubbles of free carbonic

acid gas give to the fountain a boiling motion. Large quantities of

the gas can easily be collected at the mouth of the spring at any

time.

Properties.

It is a fine chalybeate or iron water, possessing strong tonic

properties. It also has a diuretic action and is extensively used for

that purpose. The water is recommended to be drank in small quantities

frequently during the day, generally _preceded_ by the use of the

cathartic waters taken before breakfast.

Only from one-half to one glass should be taken at a time. When taken

in large quantities or before breakfast its effects might remind one

of that great race in northern and central Europe,--the Teutonic

(_too_ tonic). A peculiar headache would certainly be experienced.

The proper use of this water is found to strengthen the tone of the

stomach and to increase the red particles of the blood which,

according to Liebeg, perform an important part in respiration. It has

been proved by actual experiments that the number of red particles of

the blood may be _doubled_ by the use of preparations of iron.

Though containing but 3.26 grains of iron in one gallon of

water--Prof. Chandler's analysis--it is an evident and remarkable fact

that the water thus weakly impregnated has a most perceptible iron

taste in every drop. Is it much to be wondered at, then, that a

mineral which has so extensive a power of affecting the palate, should

possess equally extensive influence over the whole system? Many

minerals in a dilute state of solution may pass easily through the

absorbents, while in a more concentrated state they may be excluded.

Carbonic acid gas, for instance, when diluted is readily inhaled, but

when concentrated acts in a peculiar manner upon the wind-pipe so as

to prevent its admission. So the happy medicinal effects of these iron

waters seem to consist--to some extent--in the minute division of the

mineral properties so that they are readily taken into the system.

[Illustration: EMPIRE SPRING AND BOTTLING-HOUSE.]

THE CRYSTAL SPRING

Is under the southern extremity of the new hotel. The proprietors have

named it the Crystal Spring from the crystalline appearance of the

water, which does not rise to the surface, but is pumped up from a

depth of several feet. It was discovered in 1870 by experimental

excavation. The characteristic, and to many disagreeable odor of

sulphuretted hydrogen, is readily perceived. Sulphur veins, or iron

pyrites, are found in all sections of this valley; one of the most

provoking problems of the owners of the springs being to keep their

fountains from a sulphur taint, the quantity and quality of which is

not considered beneficial, while it injures the sale of the bottled

water.

The Crystal Spring is somewhat alterative in its therapeutic effects.

THE ELLIS SPRING

Is near the railroad, between the Glacier and Geyser Springs. It has

been known for a long time. The water flows through the _slate rock_,

and, unlike any other spring at Saratoga, issues in a horizontal

direction from the side of the hill. It is a very fine chalybeate, but

is not bottled.

EMPIRE SPRING,

Situated on Spring avenue, at the head of Circular street, and near

the base of a high limestone bluff, in the northerly part of the

village, a few rods above the Star Spring, and about three-fourths of

a mile from the Congress. Owned by the Congress and Empire Spring

Company. O.H. Cromwell, Superintendent.

History.

Mineral water was known to trickle down the bank at this point ever

since the land was cleared of its primitive shrubs. It was not till

the year 1846 that the fountain was taken in charge. The tubing is

eleven feet, and fits closely to the rock. Messrs. Weston and Co., the

early proprietors, made extensive improvements in the grounds

surrounding, planting shade trees, etc., and during the past year the

opening of Spring avenue has rendered the place more attractive.

Properties.

The water of this spring has a general resemblance to that of the

Congress. In the cathartic effects of the two waters the difference is

scarcely appreciable, although from the presence of a larger quantity

of magnesia in the Congress, its operation is perhaps somewhat more

pungent. The Empire is highly esteemed for the treatment of obscure

and chronic diseases requiring alterative and diuretic remedies. It is

also recommended as a preventive or remedy for the diseases natural to

warm climates, especially intermittent, gastric and bilious fevers,

dysenteries and disorders of the liver. The directions for using are

the same as for the Congress.

EUREKA MINERAL SPRING

Is situated on Lake avenue, and on Spring avenue, about a mile east of

Broadway, and a few rods beyond the Excelsior Spring. Eureka Spring

Company, proprietors. A.R. Dyett, Esq., President.

The location of the spring is in the midst of very romantic and

picturesque scenery, embracing a beautiful park of some twenty-five

acres. Since the water was analyzed the fountain has been retubed, and

its quality improved. It is serviceable in dyspepsia and all diseases

and affections of the liver and kidneys, and is classed among saline

and cathartic waters.

It resembles in taste and appearance the other Saratoga waters. The

New York office of the Eureka Spring Company, for the sale of their

bottled water, is at No. 7 Hudson R.R.R. Depot, Varick street. Mr

Benj. J. Levy is the agent.

Within a few steps of the Eureka, and belonging to the same company,

is the White Sulphur Spring and bathing-house. The water of the White

Sulphur Spring is an hepatic water of an excellent character,

possessing, as the company claim every essential element to render it

equal for internal use to the best White Sulphur waters in this State,

and far superior to most of them. The company have erected a

commodious bath-house, containing fifty bath-rooms, with every

convenience for warm and cold baths, at a moderate price.

Frequent omnibuses convey passengers to and from these springs for 25

cents, passing the principal hotels.

THE EXCELSIOR SPRING

[Illustration]

Is found in a beautiful valley, and amid most romantic scenery, about

a mile east of the town hall. The principal entrance to this spring is

on Lake avenue, about half a mile east of Circular street. Another

route is via Spring avenue, by which we pass a majority of the other

springs, and also the Loughberry water-works which supply the village

of Saratoga Springs with water from the Excelsior Lake by the

celebrated Holly system. Just before us, as we reach a point where the

avenue turns towards the Excelsior, is the fine summer hotel known as

the Mansion House, and the pretty cottage residence of Mr. Henry

Lawrence.

[Illustration: BOTTLE MARK.]

[Illustration: TRADE MARK.]

History.

The Excelsior Spring has been appreciated for its valuable qualities

by some of the oldest visitors of Saratoga for more than half a

century. The water, however, was not generally known to the public

until in 1859, when Mr. H.H. Lawrence, the former owner, and father of

the present proprietors, retubed the spring at a considerable expense,

having excavated it to a depth of fifty-six feet, eleven of which are

in the solid rock. By this improvement the water flows with all its

properties undeteriorated, retaining from source to outlet its

original purity and strength. Since then, the present proprietors,

under the firm of A.R. Lawrence & Co., by a new and improved method of

bottling and barreling the Excelsior water under its own hydrostatic

pressure, have given it an increased reputation and it is rapidly

attaining a wide-spread popularity.

Properties.

The water of this spring is a pleasant _cathartic_, and has also

alterative and tonic properties, and is moreover a very delightful

beverage. Two or three glasses in the morning is the dose as a

cathartic. As an alterative and diuretic, it should be taken in small

quantities during the day. We have seen stronger commendations of this

water from the highest medical authority than of any other.

Exportation of the Water.

After a refreshing draught from this sparkling and delicious fountain,

let us not fail to examine the proprietors' peculiar and very perfect

method of bottling and barreling the Excelsior water by its own

hydrostatic pressure. Since last season a handsome brick

bottling-house has replaced the ancient wooden structure. Entering

this bottling-house we find our way to a capacious and well-lighted

cellar, in which we discover a perpendicular opening some ten feet in

diameter; this proves to be a circular brick vault, in whose depths

the process of filling is performed. Twelve feet below the surface of

the spring a block tin tube conveys the water into reservoirs placed

at the bottom of this vault. These reservoirs are strong oak barrels,

lined with pure block tin in such a manner as to be perfectly

gas-tight, and furnished with two tubes, one quite short and the other

extending from the top to the bottom of the reservoir. Then, by

filling the reservoirs through the long tube by hydrostatic pressure,

the air is excluded, while the gas is not allowed to escape. When sold

on draught, it is necessary simply to connect the long tube with the

draught tube, and the short tube with an air pump, when the water can

be forced out by the pressure of the air, and will flow forth

sparkling and delicious as at the spring, without being re-charged

with gas.

[Illustration: GEYSER SPRING THE SPOUTING SPRING]

Having concluded our investigation, and tarried to notice the

MINNEHAHA, UNION, and other springs which bubble up in this

immediate vicinity, we have now the choice of continuing along the

banks of a winding stream to the Eureka and White Sulphur Springs, or

of returning by the way of Lake avenue. But should we prefer the

healthful exercise of walking, we may dismiss our carriage and stroll

into those magnificent woods that border the hill and valley for half

a mile between Excelsior Spring and the village. Through them there is

a wide and shady path, well known to visitors who love the

picturesque, and along its winding way is found the shortest walk to

the center of the village.

The beauty of this region would seem to indicate it as the proper site

for the future Central Park of Saratoga.

THE GEYSER SPOUTING SPRING

Is about a mile and a half below the village, on the Ballston road,

and near the railroad. Business address, "Geyser Spring."

History.

This wonderful mineral fountain was discovered in February. 1870.

There had been indications of mineral water in this neighborhood,

which had been noticed for a long time. The building which is now used

as a bottling-house, and beneath which the spring was found, was used

as a bolt factory. The proprietors, Messrs. Vail and Seavy, determined

to bore for a spring. They were successful, and when they had reached

a point 140 feet below the surface rock, they struck the mineral vein.

The water immediately burst forth with vehemence, and the marvelous

phenomenon of a spouting spring was established.

The orifice bored in the rock is five and a half inches in diameter

and 140 feet deep. The tubing is a block tin pipe, encased with iron,

eighty-five feet in length and two inches in diameter. The diameter of

the orifice of the tube is three-eighths of an inch. The tube is

firmly secured at the bottom, and "seed bags" are filled in around it,

so that all the water and gas is compelled to enter the tube, thereby

preventing the possibility of adulteration. The fact that the spring

is located 140 feet beneath the solid rock renders it free from all

impurities of surface waters.

Peculiarities.

The water is thrown up by the action of its own carbonic acid gas,

with great force, producing a fountain jet very attractive in

appearance. The height of the fountain is twenty-five feet. A portion

of the stream is allowed to flow through a hollow globe of glass, and

large bubbles of gas of a bright pearl color rising in rapid

succession through the water, form a beautiful addition to the

attractiveness of the fountain. The curious will find an opportunity

to obtain a sniff of pure gas at a wooden tube, near the bottling

room, where water is drawn for bottling.

It is noticeable that when a portion of the stream is allowed to flow

through another tube to the bottling-room, the fountain spouts to an

unusual height.

Properties.

The water, as shown by the analysis, is a powerful _cathartic_, and

contains a larger amount of valuable medicinal properties than any

other spring at Saratoga. The dose is from one to two glasses. The

temperature of the spring is 46 deg. Fahr., being only 14 deg. from

the freezing point. As the water is drawn from the fountain it foams

like soda water, from the great abundance of carbonic acid gas, which

gives to the water its agreeable taste.

During the two years since its discovery the water has been

introduced all over the Union, and is now to be obtained in the

principal cities of America and Europe.

A beautiful ravine, cascade and lake, and a sulphur spring also are in

the immediate vicinity south of the spring. Seats are provided and the

pleasure seeker will find a few hours in this locality a delightful

recreation. The Geyser Spring is one of the chief attractions of

Saratoga, and no visitor should fail to see it and taste its sparkling

water.

THE GLACIER SPOUTING SPRING,

"Sparkling, rippling, and dancing about,

Freighted with health and brilliant with light,

Soothing the ear and entrancing the sight."

May be found in a little valley east of the railroad and directly

opposite the Geyser Spring, about a mile south of the village. Button

& Gibbs, proprietors.

[Illustration: GLACIER SPRING]

It was discovered in Sept. 1871, and is the most remarkable fountain

in the world. It discharges from four to eight gallons per minute,

spouting through a quarter inch nozzle to a height of fifty-two feet,

or through a half inch nozzle forty feet, pouring forth a perfect suds

of water and gas.

History.

In the spring of 1870, Mr. Jesse Button, having been employed to sink

the Geyser well, was so successful that he was induced to bore for

another spring on land owned by D. Gibbs, Esq., in this locality.

Mineral water was found at no great depth, but in no considerable

quantity. The well was sunk 220 feet in the slate rock, reaching the

magnesian limestone. At this point the mineral water could be made to

spout for a few moments, occasionally, by agitating it with a

sand-pump. The stream, however, was quite small, and as Mr. Button was

called elsewhere, the project was temporarily abandoned. In Sept.,

1871, boring was resumed. The diameter of the well which had been sank

was four and three-fourths inches. It was made an inch larger,

tapering toward the bottom, and the well was continued through the

magnesian limestone to the Trenton limestone, making a total depth of

300 feet. Having reached this point the water spouted forth with great

force. The well was at once carefully tubed.

Properties.

The water is very concentrated, and small doses are all that is

required. It will bear dilution with fresh water much better then

milk. It seems to have not only strong cathartic properties, but a

special action upon the kidneys and liver. For medicinal purposes it

promises to equal any in Saratoga.

As an object of curiosity and interest, the Glacier Spring is

unequaled in Saratoga, and it will doubtless speedily become a popular

resort.

HAMILTON SPRING.

On Spring street, corner of Putnam, in the rear of Congress Hall, and

a short distance from Hathorn Spring. Its principal action is

_diuretic_ and, in large doses, cathartic. The mineral ingredients are

the same as those of the other springs, but, owing to the peculiar

combination, the medicinal effects are widely different. It has been

found of great service in kidney complaints. From one to three glasses

during the day is the usual dose. It should be used under the

prescription of a physician, and warm drinks should not be taken

immediately after. Persons suffering from "a cold" should not drink

this water. It is not bottled.

THE HATHORN SPRING

Is situated immediately north of Congress Hall, on Spring street. H.H.

Hathorn, proprietor.

History.

The spring was discovered in 1868 by workmen engaged in excavating for

the foundations of a brick building for Congress Hall ball-room. At

the time of discovery its waters contained more mineral substances

than any other spring at Saratoga. During the past winter a defect in

the tubing has led the proprietors to retube it very carefully and at

great expense. At the recent retubing two streams were found and

carefully tubed, one of which discharges sixty gallons per minute.

Properties.

It is a powerful _cathartic_. Since its discovery it has achieved a

wonderful popularity and a high reputation in all sections of the

country. In nearly all cases when a powerful cathartic is needed its

effects are excellent, benefiting those on whom the milder waters

produce little effect.

Persons whose alimentary organs are very sensitive, or in an

inflammatory condition, should not imbibe large quantities.

There is an unusual amount of lithia in the water, which increases its

medicinal value.

THE HIGH ROCK SPRING

Is located on Willow walk, between the Seltzer and the Star Springs.

[Illustration: HIGH ROCK SPRING.]

The High Rock is the oldest in point of discovery of the Saratoga

springs. As early as 1767, Sir Wm. Johnson was brought to it on a

litter by his Indian friends. It is noted for the most remarkable

natural curiosity of the vicinity, certainly. The following

interesting description of this rock is by Prof. Chandler: "The spring

rises in a little mound of stone, three or four feet high, which

appears like a miniature volcano, except that sparkling water instead

of melted lava flows from its little crater. When Sir William Johnson

visited the spring, and in fact until quite recently, the water did

not overflow the mound, but came to within a few inches of the summit;

some other hidden outlet permitting its escape. The Indians had a

tradition, however, which was undoubtedly true, that the water

formerly flowed over the rim of the opening. A few years ago (1866)

the property changed hands, and the new owners, convinced that by

stopping the lateral outlet they could cause the water to issue again

from the mouth of the rock, employed a number of men to undermine the

mound, and with a powerful hoisting derrick to lift it off and set it

one side, that the spring might be explored.

"If you will examine the cut which presents a vertical section of the

spring, you will be able to follow me as I tell you what they found.

"Just below the mound were found four logs, two of which rested upon

the other, two at right angles, forming a curb. Under the logs were

bundles of twigs resting upon the dark-brown or black soil of a

previous swamp. Evidently some ancient seekers after health had found

the spring in the swamp, and to make it more convenient to secure the

water had piled brush around it, and then laid down the logs as a

curb. But you inquire, how came the rock, which weighed several tons,

above the logs? The rock was formed by the water. It is composed of

tufa, carbonate of lime, and was formed in the same manner as

stalactites and stalagmites are formed. As the water flowed over the

logs, the evaporation of a portion of the carbonic acid gas caused the

separation of an equivalent quantity of insoluble carbonate of lime,

which, layer by layer, built up the mound. A fragment of the rock

which I possess contains leaves, twigs, hazel nuts, and snail shells,

which, falling from time to time upon it, were incrusted and finally

imprisoned in the stony mass.

[Illustration: SECTION OF HIGH ROCK]

Analysis of a Fragment of the Rock

Carbonate of lime 95.17

Carbonate of magnesia 2.49

Sesquioxide of iron 0.07

Alumina 0.22

Sand and clay 0.09

Organic matter 1.11

Moisture 0.39

Undetermined 0.46

------

100.00

"Below the rocks the workmen followed the spring through four feet of

tufa and muck. Then they came to a layer of solid tufa two feet thick,

then one foot of muck in which they found another log. Below this were

three feet of tufa, and there seventeen feet below the apex of the

mound they found the embers and charcoal of an ancient fire. By whom

and when could the fire have been built? The Indian tradition went

back only to the time when the water overflowed the rock. How many

centuries may have elapsed since even the logs were placed in their

position? A grave philosopher of the famous watering-place,

remembering that botanists determine the age of trees by counting the

rings on the section of the stems and noticing the layers in the tufa

rock, polished a portion of the surface, and counted eighty-one layers

to the inch. He forthwith made the following calculation:

High Rock, 4 feet 80 lines to the inch 3,840 years

Muck and tufa, 7 feet low estimate 400 "

Tufa, 2 feet 25 lines to the inch 600 "

Muck, 1 foot 130 "

Tufa, 3 feet 900 "

-----

Time since the fire was built 5,870 "

"As I have seen half an inch of tufa formed in two years on a brick

which received the overflow from a spout of water containing only

twenty grams of carbonate of lime in a gallon, I am inclined to think

our antiquarian's estimates are not entirely reliable."[A]

[Illustration: PAVILION SPRING.]

The rock has been replaced over the spring, and the water now flows

over it. A very beautiful and expensive colonnade has been built over

the rock by the "High Rock Congress Spring Company." This company was

formed in 1866, and was inaugurated under favorable auspices and with

brilliant prospects of success. But though _founded on a rock_, it was

not successful in withstanding the storms. Whether the rock was too

slippery, or the Spring rains too severe, or what was the slip-up, or

rather slip-down, we do not presume to say, but the company failed,

and the spring was sold at auction during the present month for

$16,000.

Those who invested their dollars in it sank them in a _well_, and

unlike "bread cast upon the waters," they do not seem to return again.

A new company has been organized, and under their direction the spring

is being retubed. With honest and careful management it ought to be

profitable to the owners and conducive to the health of the public.

FOOTNOTE:

[A] A lecture on Water by C.H. Chandler, Ph.D., delivered at the

American Institute.

PAVILION SPRING.

A few steps from Broadway, in a somewhat secluded valley, though in

the very centre of Saratoga and directly at the head of Spring avenue

(now being completed), bubble up the clear and sparkling water of the

Pavilion Spring.

The pleasure seeker strolling up Broadway is directed by a modest sign

down Lake avenue to "Pavilion Spring and Park." A few steps, less than

half a block, brings him to the handsome arched gateway of this very

pretty park in which one can pass the time as pleasantly as could be

wished. The colonnade over the spring is one of the most elegant of

its class. It was erected in 1869, at a cost of over $6,000, and is a

fine ornament to the park. The United States Spring is under the same

colonnade. Our cut is a very faithful likeness of the grounds.

History.

The spring was originally owned by the Walton family. Though long

known, its situation was such, being in the midst of a deep morass,

that the owners took no steps towards tubing it. In 1839 it passed

into the hands of Mr. Daniel McLaren, who tubed it at a heavy expense

and trouble by sinking a crib twenty-two feet square to a depth of

forty feet. A tube was constructed in the form of a boot, and to

render the ground dry and firm around it several tons of iron filings

from Troy were packed around.

When the work was finished, the water was bottled to some extent and

was a favorite drink with many of the citizens. It was then esteemed

as a tonic spring. In 1868 it was retubed and the tube extended down

ten feet further to the sandstone rock. Clay was used for the packing,

and the water has since been of a finer flavor and of cathartic

properties. At this time the spring became the property of the

Pavilion and United States Spring Co., composed of enterprising

business men, under whose management the grounds have been rendered

quite attractive and the water is becoming celebrated as one of the

leading cathartic springs of far-famed Saratoga.

Properties.

There is a liveliness and pungency to this water which makes it a

pleasant beverage. An abundance of gas, so much desired in a mineral

spring, is so intimately associated with the water, and is so well

"fixed" as to hold the medicinal constituents in a clear and permanent

solution. The property of the water is cathartic, affecting more or

less, however, all the secretions. It is of special service in

dyspepsia, biliousness, rheumatism, etc. A half a glass to a glass,

drank after hearty meals, will relieve at once the distress from which

so many suffer. Medical men recommend the water also for kidney

disease.

While stronger than the milder waters which require so large potions

to be effective, it is not characterized by the harshness and

irritating power of some of the more recently discovered springs. It

seems to us a sort of golden mean between the two extremes.

The water bottles nicely, and is sent to every part of the Union. It

is also sold on draught. Persons becoming attached to it while at

Saratoga, can thus easily obtain it at any time in a manner only

equaled by that dipped from the spring. The sale of this, as well as

of nearly all mineral waters, is conducted almost exclusively by

druggists.

The business address of the proprietors is "Pavilion & U.S. Spring

Company, 113 Chambers street, N.Y.," to whom orders should be

addressed.

PUTNAM SPRING,

On Phila street, near Broadway. Used chiefly for bathing purposes. It

is a tonic or chalybeate, and, as this goes to press, is being

retubed. The proprietor, Mr. Lewis Putnam, is the oldest native

resident of Saratoga.

THE RED SPRING.

This spring is located on Spring avenue, a short distance beyond the

Empire, at the junction of Geneva and Warren streets. Red Spring Co.,

proprietors.

[Illustration: RED SPRING.]

History.

It was discovered soon after the Revolutionary war, by a Mr. Norton,

who had been driven from the place from fear of hostile Indians

during the war, and who returned about the year 1784 to re-occupy and

improve some buildings erected by him for the accommodation of a few

invalids who came to visit the High Rock, Flat Rock, President and Red

Springs. No other springs were known at that time, or for many years

after. Nearly a hundred years ago the first bath-house ever built at

Saratoga was erected at the Red Spring, and was used for the cure of

all kinds of eruptive and skin diseases for many years. Through the

neglect of the owners, this spring, with others near, was allowed to

fall into an impure condition; the tubes rotted out, and for a number

of years the water of the Red Spring was only used for washing sore

eyes, bad ulcers, and the cure of salt rheum, etc. The springs of

Ballston, and the valuable qualities of Congress water, drew public

attention away from these springs, and it was only a few years since

that the present owners of the spring retubed and secured this

valuable water for public use. The reputation it had long sustained as

a powerful alterative for the cure of blood diseases was confirmed;

and for several years this water has been used with growing confidence

and wonderful results.

Properties.

In a general sense its therapeutic effects are alterative, and it

possesses a particular adaptation to inflamed mucous surfaces;

scrofula in all its forms, dyspepsia in its worst conditions, and

kidney difficulties, with every kind of skin disease, including salt

rheum, which it never fails to cure, are prominent among the diseases

cured by the use of this water.

Its general effect is to tone up the system, regulate the secretions

and vitalize the blood, thereby creating a better appetite and better

assimilation.

The analysis of this water does not indicate any properties that can

account for its astonishing effects on disease, but they are supposed

to be owing to its _peculiar combination_. Scientific men, however,

differ in regard to this point and in regard to the analysis.

A greater number of _invalids_ are now using this water than from all

the other springs in the place. This water is not used as a beverage.

More than a hundred gallons per day are taken away by _real invalids_,

besides that drank at the spring. To become acquainted with its

wonderful cures one needs only to go there and spend an hour

conversing with those who are using it for their various ailments. The

water is used at all hours of the day and a short time is all that is

needed to learn the high estimation in which it is held as a remedial

agent.

SARATOGA "A" SPRING.

The "A" Spring is situated on Spring avenue, a little beyond the

Empire Spring, on the eastern side of a steep bluff of calciferous

sand rock, upon grounds which could be made quite attractive by a

moderate outlay.

History.

The memory of that reverend being, the oldest inhabitant does not

recall the time when the existence of mineral water in this immediate

locality was not known. As the merits of spring waters were so little

known and understood in the earlier days of their discovery, the

demand was far below the supply, and no attempt was made to introduce

this spring to public attention, nor any provision for the use of its

waters. In 1865, Messrs. Western & Co. purchased the property, and at

once instituted plans for securing the fountain; and a shaft twelve

feet square was sunk to the depth of sixteen feet. The surface above

the rock consists of bluish marl, similar to that found all along

this mineral valley. A tube, in the usual form, was placed over the

spring, and clay was used as packing around it. In the spring of the

next year the fountain was more perfectly secured by a new tubing, and

the water was bottled and shipped all over the country.

An ill wind seemed to be blowing, and in 1867 the bottling-house was

nearly destroyed by fire; and the spring was again retubed to the

depth of _thirty-two_ feet, going down to the solid rock, where one of

the most perfect veins of water was found flowing in all its original

purity, which was secured with the greatest care, in order to prevent

the mixture of sulphurous or other waters, and carried to the surface

through a tube made of maple.

At present the spring itself is protected by a temporary structure,

while the water is bottled in a portion of the original building which

was not destroyed by fire. The spring is at some little distance from

the business part of Saratoga, and, since the bottling-house was

destroyed no special efforts have been made to attract a crowd of

visitors, though many who know the virtues of the water take the pains

and trouble to go out of their way to obtain it, fresh from the spring

in all its purity, as it is held in the highest estimation by all who

have used it. We believe it is the intention of the present management

to rebuild the houses and ornament the surroundings either this summer

or next.

Of the original company, Jay Gould was President, and John F. Henry,

Secretary. The officers of the present company are, John F. Henry,

President; B.S. Barrett, Secretary, and Edwin F. Stevens, Treasurer.

Mr. Henry is well known as the leading druggist in America and the

largest dealer in proprietary medicines in the world.

Properties.

The water possesses a very agreeable taste and flavor, resembling in

many respects the favorite Congress. Its principal action is

alterative and cathartic.

SELTZER SPRING.

"Saratoga Seltzer Spring Co.," proprietors. Perhaps no one of the

springs gratifies the curious more than the Seltzer.

It is situated about 150 feet from the High Rock Spring, but, although

in such close proximity thereto, its water is entirely different, thus

illustrating the wonderful extent and capacity of nature's

subterranean laboratory.

Peculiarities.

The owners of the Seltzer Spring have an ingenious contrivance for

exhibiting the flow of the water and its gas. It consists of a glass

tube, three feet in height and fifteen inches in diameter, nicely

adjusted to the mouth of the spring, through which the sweet, clear,

sparkling water gushes in a steady volume, while, faster than the

water, bubble up the glittering globules of pure carbonic acid gas.

History.

The spring was discovered several years ago, but only recently was it

tubed so as to be available. The tube extends down thirty-four feet to

the surface of the foundation rock. The crevice in the rock through

which the water issues is about twelve inches by five. The column of

water above the rock is thirty-seven feet high. The flow of gas is

abundant and constant, but every few minutes, as the watchful visitor

will observe, there is a momentary ebullition of an extraordinary

quantity which causes the water in the tube to boil over the rim. When

the sunshine falls upon the fountain it presents a beautiful

appearance.

This is a genuine Seltzer spring. The character of the water is almost

identical with that of the celebrated Nassau Spring of Germany, which

is justly esteemed so delicious by the natives of the "Fatherland."

Our German citizens, with their usual sagacity, have discovered this

fact, and the consumption of the water by them is daily on the

increase.

The importance of this American Seltzer Spring will be somewhat

appreciated by the reader, when informed of the fact that nearly two

millions of stone jugs, holding one quart each, of the Nassau Seltzer

are annually exported from Germany.

Properties.

The water of this spring is very pleasant to the taste, being slightly

acidulous and saline, but much milder than that of the other Saratoga

springs. It is an agreeable and wholesome beverage. When mixed with

still wines, etc., it adds the peculiar flavor only to be derived from

a pure, natural Seltzer. It enlivens them and gives them the character

of sparkling wines.

Saratoga possesses numerous objects of interest for the German

population, surpassing even the famous Spas of Europe, and the

discovery of the Seltzer will doubtless attract large numbers of this

intelligent and genial people.

The analyses of the Saratoga and the German Seltzer springs are almost

identical.

No people in the world, perhaps, consider a summer's excursion to a

watering place so absolutely essential to life, physically,

dietetically, morally and politically considered, as the Germans, and

we are happy to know that they are beginning to realize the

attractions of Saratoga.

[Illustration: STAR SPRING.]

The United States Spring is also successfully used for mixing with

the still wines, and is attaining a popularity among the Germans.

THE STAR SPRING

Is located on Spring avenue near the termination of Circular street.

Star Spring Co., proprietors, Melvin Wright, Superintendent.

History.

Under the name of President Spring, and afterwards Iodine Spring, the

fountain now called the Star has been known for nearly a century; long

enough to test its merits and long enough to sink it in oblivion if it

possessed no merits. Its lustre is undimmed, and it promises to be a

star that shall never set. During these many years a goodly proportion

of tottering humanity have found in this spring an amendment to their

several crippled constitutions. It was first tubed in 1835. In 1865

the Star Spring Co. was formed, and in the following year the spring

was retubed under their direction. In 1870 they erected the finest

bottling-house in Saratoga. Great care is taken to preserve the spring

in a pure condition and perfect repair. The water has become immensely

popular in New England, where it is "the spring," and throughout the

United States and Canada.

For Commercial Use.

The water is sold in cases of quarts and pints, and besides, owing to

the large amount of gas which is finely incorporated with the water,

the company are enabled to supply families with it in kegs of fifteen

gallons, in which the water keeps as well as in bottles, and at

one-fourth to one-sixth the cost. This method seems to give entire

satisfaction and is fast coming into general use. This is the only

spring that supplies the water in bulk to families. The price to

druggists in bulk is twenty cents per gallon, to families $4 per half

barrel, to the trade in cases at $21 per gross for pints, and $30 per

gross for quarts.

Properties.

The Star water is mildly cathartic, has a pleasant, slightly acid

taste, gentle and healthy in its action, and yet powerful in its

effects.

It is far more desirable for general use as a cathartic than the

preparations of the apothecary.

Rev. Dr. Cuyler, in one of his peculiarly charming letters, gives the

Star Water preference over all others as an active and efficient

cathartic.

THE TEN SPRINGS.

This is the name which was formerly given to several springs in the

immediate vicinity of the Excelsior, and embracing the Union and the

Minnehaha, which have been recently tubed. The other springs have been

neglected, and the name "Ten Springs" has been abandoned.

THE UNITED STATES SPRING

Is located under the same colonnade as the Pavilion, and less than ten

feet distant from it. When the Pavilion was being retubed, in 1868, a

new spring was discovered flowing from the east (the Pavilion and

nearly all the other springs flowing from the west). It has been

carefully tubed and christened the United States. It seems to be tonic

in its properties, with only a very slight cathartic effect. It is now

used for mixing with the still wines by our German citizens, who find

in it the virtues of their own Nassau Spring. There are very few of

the Saratoga waters that can be used successfully with the red and

white wines, the presence of a very large proportion of chloride of

sodium being considered an objection. The United States Spring seems

to fully answer the purpose, giving to the wines a rich flavor and

sparkling character.

It is a matter of surprise to visitors that two springs, welling up

their waters so near together, should yet be widely different. Where

nature in her subterranean laboratory obtains all the elements, and

how she can manage that from one crevice shall issue a water whose

ingredients shall never materially differ, and whose temperature shall

remain constant throughout the year, while within a few feet she sends

up an equally unvarying, and yet widely different spring, is indeed a

problem, and the oftener one reflects on subjects of this kind, the

oftener is the old fashioned observation repeated, that "let a man go

where he will, Omnipotence is never from his view."

THE WASHINGTON SPRING

Is situated in the grounds of the Clarendon Hotel, on South Broadway.

History.

This fountain was the first tubed in this mineral valley, being opened

by Gideon Putnam, in 1806. It was used for bathing purposes chiefly.

Dr. Steel writes of it in 1828, that it is "found of eminent service

when applied to old, ill-conditioned ulcers, and obstinate eruptions

of the skin." A cluster of bushes formed a shelter for the external

use of the water.

In 1858 a shaft eleven feet square was sunk round the spring to a

depth of thirty feet. The stream seemed to come from a lateral

direction, and a tunnel was excavated for a distance of thirty feet.

At this point the earth gave way, and the water and gas flowed in so

suddenly that the workmen hardly escaped with their lives, leaving

their tools behind them. In fifteen minutes 12,000 gallons of water,

and double that quantity of gas, filled the excavation. Rotary pumps,

worked by a steam engine, were insufficient to remove the water.

Another shaft, near the end of the tunnel, was sunk to a depth of

twenty-eight feet, when the water burst into this also, and it had to

be abandoned. A third shaft, twenty feet in diameter, and held by a

strong coffer dam, was sunk southeast of the former. When the rock was

reached two streams were found issuing from a fissure; one of them was

tubed, and water rose to the surface.

This brief sketch will give a little idea of the difficulties and

dangers incident to the tubing of some of these springs.

Properties.

This is a chalybeate or iron spring, having _tonic_ and diuretic

properties. It is not a saline water, and the peculiar inky taste of

iron is perceptible. It should be drank in the afternoon or evening,

before or after meals, or just before retiring. One glass is

sufficient for tonic purposes. Many regard this as the most agreeable

beverage in Saratoga. It is frequently called the "Champagne Spring"

from its sparkling properties.

The grounds in the immediate vicinity are very picturesque, and in the

evening are lighted by gas. The Clarendon Band discourse their music

on the neighboring piazza, and large numbers of fashionably attired

people throng beneath the majestic pines, forming one of those

peculiar group pictures which render Saratoga so charming.

EUREKA WHITE SULPHUR SPRING

Is about a mile east of Broadway and only a few rods distant from the

Eureka Mineral and the Ten Springs. Lake avenue and Spring avenue lead

directly to it. Stages run between the spring and the village every

hour, passing the principal hotels. Eureka Spring Co. are the

proprietors.

This is _the_ Sulphur Spring of Saratoga. _It is said to be

unsurpassed by any Sulphur spring in the State._ Sulphuretted or

hepatic waters acquire their peculiar properties from beds of pyrites

or by passing through strata of bituminous shale and foetic-oolitic

beds. These we regard as organic sulphuretted waters, while the others

are mineral.

The mere presence of hydrosulphuric acid gas does not constitute an

hepatic water: for the solid ingredients are essential; and these are

found in that of the Eureka White Sulphur Spring, proving it to be a

very valuable water. It is successfully used in the long list of

diseases for which, sulphur water, both internally and externally, is

so highly recommended by the medical faculty. Sulphur waters are very

useful in the treatment of rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, and kindred

diseases, and in glandular affections and certain chronic diseases of

the stomach, liver, intestines, spleen, kidneys, bladder and uterus,

and in dropsy, scrofula, chlorosis and mercurial diseases. It is

beneficial, used both internally and externally in the form of baths

at different degrees of temperature, best determined in each case by

the physician under whose advice, as a general rule, they should be

used. The water is highly beneficial in cutaneous diseases, inflamed

eyes, etc. If the person is dyspeptic the non-gaseous water should be

used in small doses. It may be as well to add that such waters should

not be used if there is a tendency to cerebral disease, or in cases of

consumption and cancer.

[Illustration: CONGRESS SPRING BOTTLING-HOUSE.]

The water of this sulphur spring is remarkably pellucid. The fountain

discharges upwards of 20,000 gallons per day.

A large and commodious bathing-house, containing fifty bath-rooms,

with excellent and ample accommodations and superior facilities,

affords _warm_ and _cold_ sulphur water baths. They are a real luxury.

This completes our list of the important springs. Mineral water of

considerable merit has been found in several other places in the

village and its vicinage, which, if situated elsewhere, would

doubtless excite marked attention and popularity, but in the midst of

Saratoga's brilliant galaxy and in the absence of any distinguishing

peculiarity, they possess at present "no name."

DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF THE WATERS.[B]

The CATHARTIC waters, as a cathartic, should be taken only

before breakfast in the morning, and possibly before retiring at

night, because in the morning the body, refreshed by sleep, is best

prepared for the water, and the stomach is empty. Two or three glasses

are usually sufficient, if drank within a short interval and only a

few minutes before breakfast. Many physicians attribute the cathartic

effect to the "stimulus of distention" as well as to the absorption of

the mineral properties, and for this purpose the water should not be

sipped but _drank_. Before eating, the sipping of a little tea or

coffee will make the waters more efficacious.

None of the cathartic waters should be drank in _large quantities_

immediately before, during or within two hours after meals, as they

are then liable to disturb digestion and prevent nutrition.

[Illustration: WASHING AND FILLING.]

When suffering from a cold the cathartic waters should be avoided.

Those affected with lung complaints should not drink these waters.

As an ALTERATIVE, the waters should be drank in small

quantities at various intervals during the day. As their alterative

effect is from the absorption of the water, the quantity taken should

be small.

The chalybeate or TONIC waters are liable to cause headache

when taken before breakfast. They may be used with benefit before or

after dinner and tea. Only from a half to one glass should be taken at

a time.

The DIURETIC waters should be drank before meals, and at

night, and should not be followed by warm drinks. Walking and other

exercise increase the diuretic effect.

Attention to system should characterize the use of these as of other

remedies.

It is impossible to give _complete and invariable_ directions for

drinking any of the waters.

The experience and necessities of each individual can alone determine

many things in regard to their use.

It is advisable to consult some experienced resident physician.

A moderate use of the waters will be found most beneficial.

The enormous quantities of water which some persons imbibe at the

popular springs is perfectly shocking, and can only be injurious. It

is no uncommon occurrence to see persons drink from five to ten

glasses of Congress or Hathorn water with scarcely any interval, and

the writer has heard of a lady who swallowed within a few minutes

fourteen glasses of one of the springs. It is to be presumed that her

thirst was satisfied, as no further account of her has been given.

Those who are taking a course of mineral water will usually find their

appetite increased thereby.

[Illustration: PACKING-ROOM, CONGRESS SPRING.]

An abundance of vegetables should be avoided, and only those which

are perfectly fresh should be used.

Frequent bathing in mineral water and otherwise will be found

beneficial.

Raising the temperature of the spring water, by placing a bottle of it

in boiling water, makes it more efficacious as a cathartic, and is

said to remove the iron. Heating the water makes it better for bathing

purposes.

FOOTNOTE:

[B] This article is _copy righted_. Parties who wish to copy the

entire article, or a portion of it, will please give credit.

The Saratoga Waters at a Distance from the Springs.

If the Saratoga waters are really what they have the reputation of

being--and certainly no one who has witnessed their effects can deny

their wonderful power--the purity of the water which is supplied to

invalids, at a distance from the springs, becomes a matter of the

utmost consequence.

"The fashionable and the rich," writes an eminent divine, "who fill

these splendid saloons, are not alone the people for whom the

beneficent Creator opened these health-giving fountains; but they are

also those who occupy the sick chambers in all parts of the earth, who

have never seen Saratoga, but who are relieved and comforted by its

waters."

Personally the writer has found in several cities more or less

difficulty in obtaining the genuine water. He therefore offers a few

suggestions on the present mode of exportation.

For many years the sale of spring water has been chiefly conducted by

druggists. In the earlier days the business was conducted with

fairness and profit to all concerned, but the small cost of

manufacturing an artificial water imitating the natural in taste and

appearance, and made even more sparkling and pungent by a heavy

charging with gas, the enormous extent of the patent medicine business

which has protruded itself in all directions, and to an overwhelming

extent, and the large percentage of profit which druggists now realize

on their goods, all these have interfered with the sale of pure

natural spring water. We assert as an indisputable fact that the

sale of artificial waters has been a serious and unjust detriment to

the reputation of natural mineral water.

[Illustration: STORE-ROOM, CONGRESS SPRING.]

Very little of the water sold on draught by druggists is genuine.

Several instances have fallen under the immediate notice of the

writer, in which druggists have obtained the photographs and trade

marks of a certain spring, by the purchase of a small quantity of

water, and then manufactured that which they sold on draught; and

instances are numerous in which druggists have overcharged consumers

for the bottled water.

We cannot too strongly urge those who wish to obtain Saratoga water

pure and fresh, to send _direct to the spring_ whose waters they

desire.

To the Superintendents of springs we suggest the supplying of the

waters through _grocers_, who can best handle both the barreled and

the bottled water, and will be most likely to sell it in its purity.

It should be made a _staple article_, and its merits as a beverage and

a preventive of disease brought to public notice. The use of the water

increases the appetite, and grocers would find its extended sale would

be an advantage to their business.

We believe our country would be better, and biliousness, dyspepsia,

fevers, and a long range of diseases more rare, if the natural waters

which God has provided were to become a standard article in our

groceries.

Special Notice.--The subscriber is desirous of making a

special study of the mineral springs of Saratoga. He will

gladly receive any reliable information which may be

communicated to him in regard to the history, properties, etc.,

of the various springs, or their effects in particular cases.

Such information will be acknowledged in future editions of

this work.

_Invalids who have received benefit or injury_ from the use of

the waters are earnestly requested to give a statement of their

experience. Communications of this sort will be held

_confidential_.

Proprietors of springs in other places are also requested to

send circulars and other information in regard to their several

springs.

Address,

R.F. DEARBORN,

_Saratoga Springs, N.Y._