Historic Springs of the Virginias: A Pictorial History

This book opened up a new world of travel and exploration for me. I was vaguely aware there had once been hotels where people visited to "take the waters" but didn't know much more than that. With its marvelous old photographs and readable histories this book made the world of spring hotels real for me. I used it as a guide to visit the hotels, some still open, some still standing, and some forgotten ruins, and had a great time doing it. Years later, I'm still so hooked I often plan trips around the location of spring hotels. I've had more fun locating and exploring these old hotels than I can describe. If you have any interest in history, are interested in architecture, or just love exploring mysterious and often forgotten places, this book will be a joy!

I first saw this book in 1981. Twenty years has not change my thoughts on this book. It is one the best pictorial histories ever. The subject is one that is best told with photographs. It was truly a step back in time.