The Origins of Saratoga’s
Healing Waters
Among the few naturally carbonated springs in the country, Saratoga water is rich in minerals…
Did you know Disney World even has a Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa? From ancient claims to modern marvels, learn why Saratoga Springs is so popular through the centuries.
The famous Saratoga Springs is the result of a geological fault line that allows naturally carbonated water, trapped deep in shale layers, to rise to the surface. Long before settlers arrived, the Mohawk and Iroquois tribes drank from and bathed in these waters, believing in their strong healing and curative properties.
According to local lore, the Mohawks referred to the area as “Serachtuague,” meaning “place of fast-moving water.” Over time, early settlers may have mispronounced this word, giving rise to the anglicized name we know today “Saratoga.”
Once settlers discovered the springs, word spread quickly about the health benefits. Even George Washington was a believer—especially in the powers of High Rock Spring. In fact, he tried to purchase the land in 1783, though others had already claimed the property.
Taking the Waters
As the 19th century progressed, the mineral waters of Saratoga gained legendary status. Doctors began prescribing a visit to Saratoga as a cure for nearly everything: kidney and liver ailments, rheumatism, diabetes, heartburn, dyspepsia, scrofula, cancer, malaria, hangovers, and even “weakness of women.” Though none of these claims were scientifically proven, it didn’t stop visitors from flocking to the springs in hopes of rejuvenation.
The popularity of “taking the waters” became so central to Saratoga’s identity that the city’s famous slogan—“Health, History, Horses”—reflects its storied past as a wellness destination.
By the mid-1800s, Saratoga had earned the nickname “The Queen of Spas.” Throughout the Gilded Age and into the early 20th century, it became a glamorous retreat for society’s elite. Notable figures such as the Vanderbilts, the Whitneys, J.P. Morgan, “Diamond Jim” Brady, and actress Lillian Russell (who has a restaurant named in her honor) frequented the area.
The Hall of Springs, with its three bubbling fountains, became a popular evening gathering spot for the well-heeled vacationers. Meanwhile, the city’s famous bath houses—including the Lincoln Bath House and Roosevelt Baths—were always bustling with guests eager to soak in the mineral-rich waters to relieve stress and various ailments.
Saratoga’s Mineral Bath Tradition…
Although the Lincoln Bath House once offered public baths, only one location today carries on with Saratoga’s mineral bath tradition “Roosevelt Baths & Spa at the Gideon Putnam Resort“ in Saratoga Spa State Park.
Visitors can soak privately in individual rooms filled with the naturally effervescent mineral water—keeping the centuries-old wellness tradition alive. Today there are 21 mineral springs in Saratoga, located at various points throughout the city, each one varying slightly in its chemical makeup and flavor. The springs also taste different depending on the season.
Saratoga Water is also bottled (often recognized by its very distinctive dark blue glass bottle) and sold in local grocery stores and restaurants including throughout the country. For all the positive references made regarding the benefits of mineral water, first-time tasters are often a bit surprised. It tastes nothing like what comes out of your tap, and may be a bit disconcerting to the uninitiated!
Whatever the actual benefits of mineral waters may or may not be, the bubbling waters of Saratoga continue to draw the faithful, skeptical and curious to sample and savor its mineral essence.
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