The history of Manitou
Springs is
forever linked with the springs around which it was founded. Created
during the same geological uplift that gave us Pikes Peak, the water
rises naturally from aquifers deep below ground, where it absorbs
minerals in high concentrations; sometimes two to three times the
amounts found at more familiar watering holes like Saratoga Springs or
Baden-Baden. Still, its the bubbles in the water that made Manitou
famous. The intense effervescence, caused by high levels of carbonic
acid, created the first carbonated drink long before the artificial
process was invented. No wonder French missionaries christened the
local creek Fontaine qui Bouille or Boiling Fountain.
Now picture how the
first Native Americans must have seen this valley as they traveled
from the plains. The verdant box canon, nestled into the foothills of
the great peak, was full of game, attracted by the meandering creek
and the surrounding springs. Deposits of minerals dating back
thousands of years had created large natural basins into which the
soda water erupted and then overflowed into the stream. As one
approached, a deep rumbling could be heard, as the gases and water
boiled up from the depths. Large groves of cottonwoods and picturesque
boulders completed the picture. You can understand why the native
tribes considered this a sacred place where the spirits of the gods
and men interacted. This is Manitou Springs.
Hollee
Jo Vail, GRI ~ Broker Associate ~ Remax Properties, Inc.
1740 Chapel Hills Drive ~ Colorado Springs ~ Colorado 80920
Voice: 719-590-4726 ~ Fax: 719-590-9122
Toll Free:1-866-4HOLLEE (866-446-5533)
