This is a collection of pictures of the West Baden Springs Hotel. A large part of the building and grounds have been restored now.
The West Baden Springs Hotel has long been of interest to people from around the world. It was truly an architectural wonder when it was built shortly after the turn of the century.
Tour schedule
Most people didn't realize what all of the dome harbored. Pictures cannot do justice to the artwork and other designs in the atrium. Some elaborate work has had to be accomplished in order to restore the hotel's magnificence. For example, Conrad Schmitt, an interior design firm from Milwaukee, screen printed the designs on the walls and ceiling of the atrium.
The hotel grounds, as well as the hotel, were in a very bad condition after the years when the courts of California prevented anyone from maintaining them. Judges with no concept and appreciation of history and art should never be allowed to have control over properties of National importance. (Sorry, I couldn't avoid the personal editorial. I believe what the way the California courts acted was nothing short of criminal.)
The restoration can clearly be seen by simply driving along the Boulevard. The archway has been completely redone and at night is lit up with lights just like the driveways leading to the hotel. The "jungle" just to the left of the drive has been cleared so passers-by can get a better look at the property. Bridges and sidewalks have been exposed from the wilderness. Outside gardens have been manicured and fountains restored.
Construction work was done by Pritchett Brothers Construction and was funded mostly through a grant by Cook Incorporated.
The work was only a partial restoration. One-third of the hotel was restored. Historic Landmarks Foundation, owner of the property, is currently trying to market the property for a potential buyer. They hope to find a buyer who will finish the restoration.
The construction has added a sense of pride for the entire community.
Click on the thumbnail pictures to see a full sized picture.
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This is a photo of the West Baden Springs Hotel I took from the air a few years ago. It is taken from a VCR picture, so the quality isn't as good as I would like. You can see the part of the wall that had collapsed. |  |
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The arch entrance to the hotel grounds. The picture at the right shows the restored arch and crowds touring the hotel. |  |
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Hotel grounds from a 1939 post card. The picture at the right shows work progressing. |  |
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Under the dome. The picture at the right shows the work now going on inside the dome to restore it. |  |
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Side view of the hotel from a post card. The fountains and grounds are being restored also. |  |
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The bicycle and running track. The picture at the right shows work progressing on a fountain. |  |
If you have personal photographs, I could scan them for posting. Get in touch with me:
Kenneth Howard, 8381 W. Vine St., French Lick, 47432 (812) 936-4122 or email at kenny@zbh.com
If you are interested on more information about the West Baden Hotel you can contact the following:
If you are interested on information about other restoration/renovation projects around the state, go to the Indiana Historic Preservation Home Page.
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