In 1899 a bridge of rough poles was constructed across the pasture between the Hotel and the Springhouse. Early in the 1900's it was replaced by a better walkway of finished lumber. This was one of the biggest attractions of the Riverside Inn. This Cambridge Springs hostelry, situated picturesquely on the banks of French Creek, has been in continuous operation since 1885. It was built at that time to accommodate wealthy patrons during the exciting "mineral water boom" of the late 1800's and early 1900's.

FROM RURAL VILLAGE TO
BUSTLING RESORT

The popularity of mineral water therapy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries changed the calm, rural community of Cambridgeboro into a bustling resort center patronized by visitors from all over the world! The "boom" effect even gave the town a new name. In 1897 Cambridgeboro was officially renamed Cambridge Springs, for as one official remarked, "the mineral springs have changed our town. What's more logical than to change our name to Cambridge Springs?"

By 1903, the "change" was better described as a total makeover. More than 40 hotels, springs houses, and rooming houses welcomed visitors. The mineral water was the firm foundation of an industry which offered everything from baths to bottling works.

HUB OF ACTIVITY

In the early 1900's horse-drawn coaches met eight daily trains bringing guests to the now-famous resort. Its popularity grew not only because of the mineral water but because Cambridge Springs is very close to being a midway point between Chicago and New York City. It is also only 100 miles from Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Cleveland. If a triangle were drawn connecting these three cities, Cambridge Springs would be right in the center.

Being the hub of such activity and with its location on the extensive railroad network, Cambridge Springs saw many new businesses flourish that no longer exist today.

THE LONE SURVIVOR

However, as so many "boom towns" turn into "ghost towns," so the health spa image of Cambridge Springs faded, and with it the tourist trade. The healing powers of the springs were discounted, and one by one, the grand hotels closed. The burning of the Rider Hotel in 1935 left the Riverside Inn as the lone surviving hostess of a glorious and very profitable time in Cambridge Springs history.

Colonel Frank W. Parke bought the entire Riverside Establishment from the Baird family in 1946 and carried on its famous traditions. In 1965 he sold the property, and the famous Jersey dairy herd and bulls were auctioned.