In the 19th and 20th centuries, Colorado Springs became known as a haven for people who had tuberculosis. Doctors believed that the mineral waters of the springs in nearby Manitou Springs had healing effects; plus, the dry climate and mountain air were a relief to people suffering from TB. Many patients were sent to the Pikes Peak region to help speed up their recoveries. Although the dry air and waters did not ìcureî tuberculosis, they helped the disease to regress and allowed for a quicker recovery.Many houses in Manitou Springs were used as temporary homes for people afflicted with TB. There were also numerous sanitariums in Colorado Springs, one of the most notable buildings still standing is the Union Printers Home. The home was originally opened to serve people in the printing industry who came down with TB and black lung because of the old printing practices; later on, the Union Printers Home operated as an elderly care home until March 2020, when health violations threatened to close it. Many of the other buildings that housed sanitariums were turned into medical buildings as well: Penrose, St. Francis and Beth-El hospitals all were originally built to house TB patients.Although the amount of tuberculosis patients began to decline in the 1920s because of advances in medicine, many of those who recovered from the disease stayed and became residents of the rapidly growing town.One can still enjoy the mineral water benefits of Manitou Springs. There are eight naturally carbonated drinking fountains, which tap into the cityís cold springs. Each spring is said to have a unique taste. Self-guided tours are offered year round. Stop by the Manitou Springs Visitors Bureau at 354 Manitou Avenue. They supply visitors with a cup, map and a chart of the mineral areas. They also have special guided tours. The SunWater Spa in Manitou, with its natural hot springs pools, was opened in 2015 and is available year-round. The spa features several tubs filled with mineral springs water and offers a variety of exercise classes and spa treatments. Visit https://www.sunwellness.net for more information. The spa is open, with restrictions.
