Grayson Sulphur Springs

Grayson Sulphur Springs. . For centuries people have "taken the waters" of naturally heated sulphur springs to aid in a variety of ailments including digestive and pulmonary diseases and skin disorders. It was thought that something that tasted and smelled so bad had to do some good. Analysis of sulphur waters are shown to contain: soda, magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate, magnesium sulphate as well as other minerals and gases. There are many places around the world today where people can enjoy the therapeutic values of these waters., Diary of: Lucy S. Ruggles July 28, 1847 , Started this morning at half past 9am for Grayson Sulphur springs and arrived about 5pm. The distance is about twenty miles, but such a road! The scenery along the river is beautiful beyond description, so wild and remote!, (LEFT) Sketch of "Grayson Sulphur Springs" by: Henry Howe 1843 , The story of Grayson Sulphur Springs begins in 1835, in the same year Wythe County citizens organized the Grayson Sulphur Springs Co. Originally, the springs were located in Grayson County, however when Carroll County was formed from Grayson in 1842, they were included in the new county. During the first few years only a few cabins and guest quarters were erected, however by 1843 150 to 200 visitors could be accommodated., Soaking in and drinking the waters weren't the only attraction. For many who came annually they found happiness and health by chasing wild bucks, angling blue catfish and bass and exploring the surrounding land., (Above) "Grayson Sulphur Springs" River Inn 1897 , In the late 1850's, disaster struck the once thriving resort. Two days of steady rain caused the river to give way to flooding leaving the resort underwater. Natura; disasters and approaching Civil War put an end to "good ole days" at the Grayson Sulphur Springs., In the early 1890's Dr. J.L. Kernoodle and his brother Dr. George Kernoodle, built the new two story, 32 room hotel seen above. It's not known whether the old buildings were demolished or lost their battle with elements and time. The new hotel was open from May to "huckleberry time" and guests arrived mainly by the newly built rail line until 1902 when a good road was built from Ivanhoe to the springs. The new resort was quite successful, and not only with locals. Guests came from New York, Florida and as far away as Texas., The new resort lasted only a short time. In 1913, the property was sold to New River Power Co., the predecessor of Appalachian Power. When they constructed the hydroelectric dam at Byllesby, Grayson Sulphur Springs area was inundated. The River Inn was razed before water closed over it. Some say that the old spring house can be seen in the lake during low and clear water conditions., Photos/Diary Entry: Courteous of WCC, W.R. Chitwood M.D. Collection