BLUE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. — Those working to keep the Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion from collapsing in Greenbrier County say they have raised enough money to keep the structure, built in 1834, standing at least temporarily.
However, it will take an additional more than $200,000 for a permanent stabilization solution at the site which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
“It is beautiful, historic treasure for the county,” said Alex McLaughlin, chairman of Friends of the Blue.
The Greek revival pavilion, which includes 12 columns, is the only surviving structure from the Blue Sulphur Springs Resort, a 19th century mineral spa resort with space for 200 guests, named for the iridescent color of the springs on site. It is located nine miles from Alderson and 15 miles from Lewisburg.
“It was started as a major resort for the healing waters, the sulphur waters,” said McLaughlin. An economic downturn and competition from other resorts, including The Greenbrier, though, lead to the closure of the resort in 1859.
“Around the time of the Civil War, the hotel started in decline. It became an educational facility and then, during the war, it became a hospital for the south and, at the end of the war, either accidentally or intentionally, the north burned down all of the resort except for the spring house which remains today,” said McLaughlin.
He said, by trying to save the pavilion, they’re saving history. More on the fundraising effort is available at the Friends of Blue Facebook page.