A closer look at a Bathhouse

The Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the Visitor Center for the National Park.  They offer a ranger-led tour twice a day that takes you through the first floor of the bathhouse and gives a good overview of the history of bathhouses and the role they played in Hot Springs’ society and economy. 

They also talk about how bathhouses were used for health-related treatments which have been adapted to things we commonly do today.  Think about how good it feels to sit in a hot tub with the jets going, or how we use ice and heat to soothe our aching muscles.

The bathhouses were designed to provide a sense of luxury, much like today's spas and salons do.  This was evident in the stained-glass and opulent statues throughout the facilities.  

One of the special treatments was a full shower like this one.  The operator had to be highly trained on using the controllers for this as they adjusted temperature and pressure for the 16+ nozzles that were blasting the client at once.  

Most of the bathers used bathtubs like this one.

The bathhouses were set up initially for men, but as more women wanted to enter, they were also accommodated.  

Just like at most fitness centers, there were men’s sides and women’s sides for changing and bathing, but there were common areas for more advanced treatments and therapies where they alternated between men’s day and women’s day.  There were some areas where men and women would mingle and relax.

And there was also a gymnasium for exercise.

You can see how bathhouses were the precursor for today's spa and fitness industry.  It's quite fascinating when you stop and think how things have evolved, not just in how we take care of ourselves, but in so many other aspects of our lives.

~ Cindy D.