Healing Waters

It has long been known that the mineral hot springs waters can have a healing effect on the body. The heat opens the pores, and the minerals are absorbed through the skin to bring their healing effects. The Indians knew about the value of the waters in Thermopolis, Wyoming. As for the “white man’s” discovery of the healing waters, they were discovered by a man named John Colter in 1807 – 1808 during his winter exploration of the area. To the Shoshone Indian Tribe, who owned the land at that time, the area was known to the local Native American tribes as “Bah-gue-wana” or “smoking waters.” The town of Thermopolis itself got its name from the Greek words “thermo” (hot) and “polis” (city). History doesn’t record the exact conversation that led to the naming of Thermopolis, but it is said to have involved whiskey, outlaws, and a cowboy with a thick Irish brogue who convinced the townspeople it was the perfect name.

At some point it was decided that the Shoshoni Tribe would sell the area to the “white man” but there were to be some stipulations. In 1896, Chief Washakie and the Eastern Shoshone tribe sold the land with one important condition: the springs must remain free and accessible to the public forever. They knew that the “healing waters” were such a great help to people with multiple conditions, one of which was rheumatoid arthritis. The springs contain calcium, magnesium, sodium, and sulfates that are known to help with joint pain and skin conditions. I remember hearing about my grandmother, Anna Schumacher Spencer being taken to soak in the waters at the Bath House in Thermopolis to help with her pain and stiffness. Chief Washakie knew that there would be many people who would need the waters, and in his wisdom, he made sure it would always be available.

For many other people, the warm waters of Thermopolis provide a wonderful place to relax and just have fun. They are a popular weekend getaway, and a great place to take the kids during Spring Break. People come from all over the state of Wyoming, as well as the surrounding states and even from other states and countries, just to enjoy the warm water and the peaceful surroundings. Thermopolis is a small town, and there isn’t a lot to do. The dinosaur museum, the buffalo preserve, and the pools make up most of the “attractions” and the trails add a few other things to do, or those who like to hike, like me. I think the lack of activities appeals to me the most…that and the mineral hot tub, of course. That’s my favorite part.