SARATOGA SPRINGS — For more than 140 years, visitors have flocked to Saratoga Springs to sample the restorative qualities of its waters.
On Thursday, June 29, Charlie Kuenzel, co-owner of Saratoga Tours LLC, will discuss the geology, chemistry and history of the world famous mineral springs. His presentation is scheduled for 1 p.m. at The Summit at Saratoga, located at 1 Perry Road.
“Saratoga Springs, at the time of its founding, had only four naturally occurring mineral springs, but when European settlers with the technology to drill arrived in the city they increased the number of available springs from four to over 200 by 1900,” Kuenzel said in a statement. “The mineral water was usually consumed at the spring but was also bottled and shipped to many destinations, some as far away as China.”
Besides being consumed, the mineral water was also used extensively for bathing in many bathhouses located around the city. “The unique blend of key minerals and high amounts of natural carbonation made the springs unique and provided relief from a variety of ailments,” Kuenzel continued. “Guests bathed in the mineral waters under guidelines set forth by their personal physician.”
Kuenzel is a native Saratogian who spent three decades as a science educator in the Saratoga Springs City School District before retiring in 2000.
Today, he and his partner Dave Patterson educate and entertain thousands of Saratoga visitors with fascinating stories about the Spa City’s architectural styles, resort location and mineral baths’ curative powers.
The presentation is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. To make reservations call 518-430-2136, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Light refreshments will be served.
For more information, visit the website www.saratogatours.net.
