2. History of Bedford Springs Resort
My Pennsylvania Pinpoint Project is on a place that
is familiar to me. It is called Bedford Springs Resort in
Bedford, PA. You probably have never heard of it. I
hadn’t either until my Aunt had told us about it. She
and my uncle found it on their way to Cleveland, Ohio.
They were looking for a place to stop for lunch. They
saw a sign for Bedford Springs Resort and thought they
would check it out. Wow-were they amazed when
they discovered the history and beauty of the building.
4. Importance of the Springs
The resort sits on 2200 acres and is along a
mountain side and is about 3 hours from us. It was
built back in 1800 by Dr. John Anderson. The resort
was built to accommodate all the people coming from
a distance to bath in the spring water found on the
resort’s ground . The 8 natural springs were known to
cure diseases and keep you healthy. The Pennsylvania
Native Indians called this land their “Holy Ground”
were the wounded and sick could drink the water and
regain their health.
5. This is me running thru the natural
spring water sprinklers.
6. Fun Facts
Bedford became a popular place to stay for politicians and
socialites.
It is now on our National Historic Registry and was named a
National Historic Landmark.
10 U.S. Presidents have stayed here, including Eisenhower,
Buchanan, and Reagan.
Buchanan called Bedford his “Summer White House.”
The desk that Buchanan had frequently used is now in the
hotel’s lobby.
The first transatlantic cable message was received in Bedford’s
lobby from the Queen of England to Buchanan.
Before this, it would take 2 weeks for a message to get across the
Ocean to the states.
This message is now on display in the lobby as well.
7. Historic Facts
Bedford had closed down during the Depression era.
Nobody could afford to go there.
During World War II, Bedford was taken over by the
government. Everyone had to leave except the cook.
The Navy was brought in and used Bedford as it’s
Radio Communications School. It trained over 7000
sailors.
After this, the government used the facility for a camp
to hold close to 200 Japanese diplomats.
8. Bedford Today
Bedford now is again a beautiful resort.
It’s pools, showers , golf course, and grounds are all
spring fed from the surrounding 8 springs.
The resort has kid’s camps and a game room as well as
an indoor and outdoor pool.
There is a hiking trail connected to the resort that goes
into the woods and along the springs.
There are 3 restaurants that serve yummy food. I
especially like the pub fries and lobster mac and
cheese.
