Maurice Bathhouse: A Closed Door to the Golden Age of Spas
Nestled along the historic Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park, the Maurice Bathhouse in Arkansas stands as a testament to the golden age of spa culture in the United States. Built in 1912, this architectural gem was once the epitome of luxury and elegance, offering unique amenities like a therapeutic pool for polio treatment. Today, although it remains closed for bathing, the Maurice Bathhouse is an intriguing part of Hot Springs’ rich history, attracting visitors with its ornate design and stories of past grandeur. This guide provides an in-depth exploration of the Maurice Bathhouse, detailing its history, architecture, and its current state, ensuring you get the most out of your visit to this historic site.
Overview of Maurice Bathhouse
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Location: Central Avenue, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
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Year Built: 1912
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Architect: George Gleim, Jr.
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Current Status: Closed for bathing, available for commercial leasing
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Historical Significance: Known for its pioneering treatment of polio patients, elegant decor, and architectural style.
Historical Background
Origins and Early Days
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1911: Construction began, replacing an existing wooden structure.
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1912: Officially opened on January 1, setting a new standard for luxury on Bathhouse Row.
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1915: Underwent significant remodeling to add a sun parlor and enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Notable Features
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Therapeutic Pool: Introduced in 1931, specifically designed for treatments like polio, making Maurice the first in Hot Springs to offer such specialized services.
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Roycroft Den: A unique men’s lounge with dark wood paneling, a fireplace, and art glass ceiling, named after the Roycrofters’ arts and crafts movement.
Decline and Closure
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Post-WWII: The bathhouse industry began to decline, with Maurice closing its doors in 1974.
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1980s: Became part of the National Park Service’s property, remaining largely vacant since.
Architectural Marvel
Exterior Design
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Style: Mediterranean Revival with elements of Renaissance Revival.
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Materials: Concrete, brick, and tile to ensure durability and hygiene.
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Notable Elements: Aquatic-themed stained glass, blue tile roof lines, and ornate facade.
Interior Highlights
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Lobby: Features arches, fluted Ionic pilasters, and a neon “Maurice” sign, enhancing its grand entrance.
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First Floor: Originally housed gender-specific bathing facilities, each with unique architectural details.
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Third Floor: The Roycroft Den, showcasing arts and crafts movement influences.
Visiting the Maurice Bathhouse Today
What to Expect
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Vacant but Viewable: While you can’t bathe here, the building’s exterior and some interior views through windows offer a glimpse into its past.
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Historical Marker: Located nearby, providing a brief history for educational purposes.
Nearby Attractions
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Bathhouse Row: Explore other bathhouses like Buckstaff (still operational), Fordyce (now a museum), and Quapaw (modern spa).
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Hot Springs National Park: Enjoy nature trails, the Grand Promenade, and public thermal water pools.
Future of the Maurice Bathhouse
Restoration Efforts
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Fundraising Initiatives: Organizations like Friends of Hot Springs National Park have been involved in efforts to restore key areas like the Roycroft Den.
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Potential Uses: Discussions include turning it into a hotel, restaurant, or cultural center.
Potential Reopening
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Leasing Opportunities: The National Park Service is open to leasing the property for adaptive reuse that respects its historic nature.
Practical Information for Visitors
How to Get There
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Address: 341 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901
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Parking: Available in downtown Hot Springs, with some spots near Bathhouse Row.
Visiting Tips
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Best Time: Early morning or weekday visits might offer a quieter experience.
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Photography: The Maurice Bathhouse’s exterior is photogenic, especially under different lighting conditions.
Comparative Overview of Bathhouse Row Bathhouses
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Bathhouse Name
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Year Built
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Current Use
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Unique Feature
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|---|---|---|---|
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Maurice
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1912
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Closed, for lease
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Therapeutic pool for polio treatment
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Buckstaff
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1912
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Operational spa
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Continuous operation since opening
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Fordyce
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1915
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Museum/Visitor Center
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Grandest, with museum displays
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Superior
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1916
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Brewery
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First bathhouse turned into a brewery
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Ozark
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1922
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Arts & Culture
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Hand-painted floral tilework
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Quapaw
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1922
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Modern Spa
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Four thermal pools at different temperatures
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Lamar
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1923
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Park Store
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Unique for its variety of tub sizes
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Hale
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1892
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Hotel
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Oldest structure on Bathhouse Row
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Must-Know Facts About the Maurice Bathhouse
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Architectural Influence: Designed by George Gleim, Jr., with a focus on hygiene and luxury.
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Specialized Medical Services: The first to offer treatments for severe muscle and joint issues.
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Cultural Impact: Hosted famous figures like Jack Dempsey, who trained in its gymnasium.
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Artistic Elements: Features like the Roycroft Den reflect the arts and crafts movement’s influence.
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Current Condition: While closed, it’s a focal point for restoration efforts, aiming to preserve its historical value.
Conclusion
The Maurice Bathhouse in Arkansas is more than just a building; it’s a slice of American spa history waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the therapeutic past of Hot Springs, a visit to the Maurice Bathhouse offers a unique perspective on how health and luxury intertwined in early 20th-century America. As plans for its future unfold, keep an eye on this landmark, which might soon see a new era of use while preserving its storied past.
By exploring this guide, you’ve equipped yourself with the knowledge to appreciate one of Hot Springs’ most enigmatic structures. Remember, the true magic of the Maurice Bathhouse lies in its stories, architecture, and the potential for its future revival. Enjoy your visit to this piece of Arkansas heritage and make sure to explore the rest of Bathhouse Row to fully grasp the spa culture that once thrived here.