Just outside of Perry is the old Hampton Springs Hotel Site. The history I learned about on this place is that an early Taylor County settler whose wife suffered from rheumatism, was directed by an Indian to these springs. When the water eased her pain and stiffness, Hampton obtained a government grant to the spring area. Although I am not sure how accurate that story is…

Benjamin W. and Joseph L. Hampton did purchase the land for $400 from John and Ana Carlton in 1879. The Hamptons eventually formed the Hampton Springs Hotel and Mineral Company. In 1908 the first part of the hotel was built and had a two story structure with about 70 rooms. The sulphuric spring bubbled up into an indoor swimming pool and the overflow was channeled back into the river. The hotel expanded in 1915 and had all the trappings of a luxury resort. People from all around came here to experience the “healing” waters of this spring.

The hotel eventually burned down in 1954 and was the area was abandoned. Today it is now a park where some of the ruins are still visible and the spring still flows into the pool. It is a great place to visit to take in some history and there are even some nice nature trails around the area to explore.

My Video

The Historic Hampton Springs Hotel Ruins in Taylor County

Resources

Hampton Springs Historical Information

Hampton Springs on Ghost Towns of Florida by Mike Woodfin

Old Photo of Hampton Springs Hotel on Florida Memory

Old Photo of Hampton Springs Bath House on Florida Memory

Hampton Springs Hotel on Florida Memory

Location: Exploring at Hampton Springs