The Springs of Waukesha

Bethesda Spring

Last Friday, we showed you our new Bunny Berigan Collection. Today I wanted to highlight another of our new collections, the Waukesha County History Collection.The materials selected document the industries, people, and structures important to the development of Waukesha County. Many of the images come from Warren S. O’Brien, a prolific Waukesha photographer.


The 1870s marked the beginning of the Springs Era in the city of Waukesha. As mineral springs were discovered and their waters bottled, Waukesha’s health and tourism industries flourished. Large and small bottling plants cropped up, giving rise to Waukesha’s beverage and bottling business. 

Fountain Spring House

Known as the “Saratoga of the West,” Waukesha became a nationally recognized destination for those seeking relaxation and restoration of the mind and body. Beautiful parks dotted the landscape, lakes offered recreation opportunities, and grand resorts welcomed visitors.


This image and text collections highlights this era is Waukesha history.


Take a peek and let us know what you think!