"THE JEFFERSONVILLE SPRINGS"

The discovery of fine mineral waters near Jeffersonville led to the development of a resort known as the Jeffersonville Springs which, became a social center during the summer season. Visitors came from all parts of the country to drink the fine mineral water and enjoy the resort life in the cottages or the hotels. During these days of the 1820's this resort area was located beyond Eleventh Street and to north of Spring Street. It occupied 13 acres of ground.

Fountains were arranged, bath houses were erected, bowling allies and other attractions were added. Cottages were built at various places on the ground to accommodate families. This resort became the gayest summer place in this part of the world.

Such notable visitors as Vice President Johnson, Henry Clay, Thomas Marshal, Humphrey Marshall, Ben Hardin, General Jackson and many others were attracted to this spot.

In 1838, the owners built a big hotel at the foot of Broadway near the river. It was the finest hotel in Indiana or Kentucky. a good wharf was built and Broadway was graded out to the Springs. Music clubs, literary clubs and fraternal organizations soon became a part of the social life of the community.

Later, in 1868, Mozart Hall occupied the second floor of the building at 231 Spring Street. Built by Henry Nagel, this theater attracted all forms of entertainment requiring a stage. One of the well remembered attractions was Happy Cal Waghel's Minstrels. They appeared in November 18, 1872, as announced in the first issue of the Evening News.

Still later, in 1896, Speith's Hall was opened in the Speith Building. We know Speith's Hall as the Redman's Building or Bensingers. This building was originally the center for concerts, plays, parties, receptions and dances.