Almaden in San Jose in Santa Clara County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

Vichy Springs

Photographed By Syd Whittle, March 29, 2011

1. Vichy Springs Marker

Inscription. A spring of carbonated water, locally known as Vichy, bubbled up here beside the Alamitos Creek. When the distant Buena Vista Shaft penetrated the 2100 foot level in 1882, the spring ceased flowing. San Francisco banker F.L.A. Pioche and others commercially bottled the water as a cure-all for the sick and thirsty. When bottled, the water lost its carbonation and the venture also went flat financially.

Erected 1979 by Mountain Charlie Chapter No. 1850, E Clampus Vitus.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Natural Resources. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list.

Location. 37° 10.419′ N, 121° 49.46′ W. Marker is in San Jose, California, in Santa Clara County. It is in Almaden. Marker is on Bertram Road near Alamitas Road, on the right when traveling west. Marker is located near the bridge on the south side of the creek. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: San Jose CA 95120, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Saint Anthony Catholic Church (within shouting distance of this marker); Helping Hand Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); The Bell Tower (within shouting distance of this marker); Hacienda Hotel (within shouting distance of this marker); Site of First Mining in California (within shouting distance of this marker); Site of First Mining Operation in California

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Site of Reduction Works (within shouting distance of this marker); Patrick Tillman (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in San Jose.

Also see . . . The Gold Rush Financiers. A short essay on Francois L.A. Pioche and his partner Lester L. Robinson (Submitted on March 29, 2011.)

Photographed By Syd Whittle, March 29, 2011

2. Vichy Springs Marker

Photographed By Syd Whittle, March 29, 2011

3. Vichy Springs Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on March 29, 2011, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 679 times since then and 25 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on March 29, 2011, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.