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Hot Springs National Parkwindow detail, glazed terra cotta design, pair of two fish facing a shield with square ornamentation on either side
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Hot Springs National Park
Fordyce Bathhouse
color photo of front of Fordyce Bathhouse from the norht side in front of the hexagonal based fountain. The building is tan and buff colored brick with a losenge pattern. The porch is covered by a copper marquee that has Fordyce Baths in stained glass panels on the overhanging front. All windows have ornate surrounds of glazed terra cotta.

The beautiful Fordyce Bathhouse now houses the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center

The Fordyce opened March 1, 1915. Designed by Little Rock architects Mann and Stern and constructed under the supervision of owner Sam Fordyce's son John, the building eventually cost over $212,000 to build, equip, and furnish. Totaling approximately 28,000 square feet, the Fordyce is the largest bathhouse on the Row. It has three main floors, two courtyards, and a basement under most of the building. The Fordyce became the first bathhouse on the Row to go out of business when it suspended operations on June 30, 1962, but it was extensively restored by 1989 and is now enjoying a renaissance as a historically furnished museum. It also functions as the park’s visitor center.
Take a peek at some refurnished rooms.

Read a brief history of the Fordyce.
Download Adobe Acrobat Reader for this .pdf file.

Team photo of 1913 Boston Red Sox team with inscription  

Did You Know?
Hot Springs, Arkansas, was the premier baseball spring training site from the 1880s-1940s. The Chicago White Stockings, Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox and others came to soothe their aching muscles at the many bathhouses using Hot Springs National Park water.

Last Updated: August 22, 2007 at 15:53 EST