Hometown Carroll County Q1 2024 | Page 14

Eureka Springs : a thriving , diverse community

Eureka Springs is a small town known for its Victorian architecture , natural beauty and many springs . The town was founded in 1879 and quickly became a popular tourist destination . Today , Eureka Springs is a thriving community with a population of over 2,000 people .

Eureka Springs has been called “ Little Switzerland of America ” because of its mountainous terrain , winding streets and European look . The town ’ s most famous landmark is the Thorncrown Chapel . This beautiful , glass and wood chapel was built in 1980 and is perched on a cliff overlooking the town . It is a popular spot for weddings and other special events .
Another popular attraction in Eureka Springs is The Great Passion Play . This outdoor drama tells the story of Jesus Christ ’ s life and death . It is performed every summer at The Passion Play Amphitheatre , which seats over 10,000 people .
The town is built on two mountains , with a valley in between . The streets wind around the town , and no two intersect .
14 • HOMETOWN CARROLL COUNTY
The town ’ s historic district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 .
In addition to its many attractions , Eureka Springs is also home to a number of unique shops and restaurants . The town ’ s historic downtown district is a great place to wander around and explore . You can find everything from antique stores to art galleries to boutiques . And don ’ t forget to try some of the local cuisine . Eureka Springs is known for its delicious fried chicken , barbecue and Ozark Mountain cuisine .
If you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate , Eureka Springs is the perfect place for you . The town ’ s natural beauty and many attractions will help you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life . So come on down to Eureka Springs and experience all that this charming town has to offer .

History

Eureka Springs boasts a rich and fascinating history . The town was founded in 1879 by Dr . James T . Reavis , who claimed to have discovered a spring with healing waters . Word of the spring spread quickly and Eureka Springs soon became a popular tourist destination .
The town ’ s early growth was fueled by the belief in the healing powers of the springs . People came from all over the country to drink the water and bathe in the springs . Many people claimed to have been cured of various ailments after visiting Eureka Springs .
The use of mineral springs in the western part of the county brought a rapid population increase in the area . Individuals seeking the healing powers of its waters made Eureka Springs a thriving community . The new town drew residents far different from the farm families elsewhere in the county .
The railroad reached Eureka Springs in 1883 when the Eureka Springs Railway ran between the city and Seligman , Missouri . The judicial district of Carroll County was divided into two sections in 1883 – an eastern district with the seat at Berryville and a western district with the seat at Eureka Springs . The split