Synopsis
"Eureka Springs: City of Healing Waters" by June Westphal (with Kate Cooper) is a concise local history that traces the evolution of the Ozark town in Arkansas from its untamed wilderness roots on the American frontier to its development as a renowned health resort and enduring historic destination. The book opens with the natural springs long believed to possess healing properties, which drew early pioneers seeking relief from ailments and sparked the town's rapid founding and growth in the late 19th century as visitors flocked for the soothing waters.
Westphal and Cooper chronicle the key figures, major events, and cultural shifts that defined Eureka Springs, including its boom as a Victorian-era spa community, the persistence of its unique sense of place amid changing times, and its transformation into a beloved tourist haven known for its charming architecture, artistic vibe, and mountainous "Little Switzerland" landscape. The narrative provides a complete chronological account—from pre-founding legends and initial settlement through periods of popularity, decline, and revival—highlighting how the mystique of the healing waters has continued to shape the town's identity even as its role evolved. Overall, it offers an engaging overview for readers interested in regional American history, spa culture, and the Ozarks' distinctive heritage.