Eric drove to Hathorn No. 3
Spring, just off US Route 50,
in Saratoga Spa State Park.
Saratoga Springs has naturally carbonated Mineral Springs. Iroquois Indians believed that the waters that bubbled up from the ground in this area have special healing powers and protected them. Colonists moved into the area, discovered "the waters." They believed that the mineral water has curative properties. By the mid 1800s, people were coming to Saratoga Springs to "take the waters" by drinking some or bathing in it.
Wells were drilled throughout the area. Some were commercial, to collect the carbonated waters for beverages or for mineral spring baths. Some were drilled to provide public access to "the waters."
Eric's family has been going to Hathorn No. 3 Spring in Saratoga Springs for many decades. Eric's grandparents and parents collected water at this Spring and drank it.
Eric places our Growler
in the basin at the Spring.
Water spurts into
the jug.
The water pressure
isn't consistent.
Eric takes a deep swig &
memories come flooding
back....
I took a sip. The water smells of Sulfur and it's very salty. "Taking the waters" is not part of my family tradition.
Eric will bring the bottle home to his Mom, who will take a few sips and remember family members she's shared "the waters" with throughout the years.
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