ANALYSIS 
OF THE 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS, 
IN VIRGINIA. 
WITH SOME ACCOUNT OF THEIR HISTORY, AND THE PROPER- : 
TIES OF THE WATER, IN LETTERS OF EMINENT 
PHYSICIANS AND OTHER GENTLEMEN. 
TO WHICH ARK ADDED 
A FEW CERTIFICATES 
OUT OF MANY, 
IN THE VARIOUS FORMS OF DISEASE WHICH HAVE 
BEEN CURED BY THESE WATERS. 
FOR TERMS OF BOARD AND COST OF WATER IN BOTTLES 
See Other Side of This Page. 
,1 r Washington, D. C., and all points north of it, the route 3s either 
by ta. Midland and Great Southern via Charlottesville and Staunton to 
(: >hen depot, or via Harper s Ferry and Stau.nton to Goshen depot. 
rurn P°*n.ts south of Lynchburg Loss through Lynchburg and 
- :u ton to Goshen. 
KOTmB TO THE SPEIDTas- 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS GO., 
Owners and Proprietors. OFFICERS 
or 
hochbftibqE gliii coMpi 
J. F. EPFINGER President 
R. W. BURKE Treasurer 
J. STAIGE DAYIB, M. D Resident Physician 
WALDO M. ALLEN Company’s Agent 
ADDRESS ALL COMMUNICATIONS TO 
WALDO M. ALLEKT, Agt., 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS, 
ROCKBRIDGE CO.. 
VIRO-INIA. 
TEFMS 
Single Month, 128 Days $6O 
Two Months, “ “ each $5O 
P'or Day $2.50 
Children and Servants, Half-Price. 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM WATER 
Will be sold in cases of one dozen half-gallon bottles, delivered on 
the cars of C. & 0. R. R., at Goshen, at $5.00 per case, and wiL 
shortly be placed with leading Druggists of the U. S. and Canada. 
SPECIAL AEEAHGEMENT WITH E. E. COMPANY 
AS TO PEEIGHT. ANALYSTS 
OF THS 
Rockbridge Alum Springs, 
IN VIRGINIA: 
WITH SOME ACCOUNT OF THEIR HISTORY, AND THE PRO- 
PERTIES OF THE WATER, IN LETTERS OF EMINENT 
PHYSICIANS AND OTHER GENTLEMEN. 
TO WHICH ARE ADDED 
A FEW CERTIFICATES, 
OUT OF MANY, 
IN THE VARIOUS FORMS OF DISEASE WHICH HAVE BEEN 
CURED BY THESE WATERS* 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS COMPANY, 
Owners and Proprietors. Editorial from the Richmond Dispatch. 
The following editorial appeared in the Richmond Dis- 
patch, June 3d, 1875, from the pen of James Cowardin, Sr., 
who has known these springs many years, which will 
speak for itself. Coming, as it does, from such a source, 
guarantees the truthfulness of the statement; 
“ Rockbridge Alum Springs.—Leaving the surf, and 
the white waves, and the great ships of the sea, and taking 
refuge among the hills and health-giving fountains of the 
Alleghanies, we come to the Rockbridge Alum Springs, now 
so famous for the curative powers of their waters. It has 
gained renown more rapidly than any known water, and is 
always visited by the invalid with a hope that equals faith. 
Few springs have done so much for the good of men within 
twenty years as the Rockbridge Alum. In all diseases of 
the digestive organs, the liver, blood, mucous membrane, 
and skin, more or less relief has been found there. Among 
the cases have been found cures almost miraculous. 
“ The proprietor of the Rockbridge Alum has not neglected 
the pleasures of his summer resort, but has enhanced them 
on a liberal scale. The means of ministering to the gaity 
and cheerfulness of the guests are provided in a judicious 
manner. The throng at the ‘ Rockbridge Alum ’ always 
shows that it is ‘ gay and festive.’ They are always sure of 
a bright season, while the invalid enters the grounds with 
the confident air of one who had ‘ come to get Avell,’ ” Shelving flie Locali >n of ,and Routes of Travel to 
THE; iMmi MIAL PiiGi AND til ROCKBRID G E AliHt 
MAP 
SPRIMJS OF VIRGINIA. 
By'Jed. Hotchkiss. Top.EtLg. 
Topographical Engineer Office 
■ rr of —— ' 
JED. HOTCHKISS, 
Staunton, va. 
front Surreys made 
DONALD ALLEN, CIV ENG. 
BY ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
This great fountain of health, with all its appurtenances 
having recently passed into the ownership and possession of 
a joint-stock company, the new proprietors wish to address a 
few plain words to the public; and first of all to the invalid 
public, for this is the constituency which first gave these 
Springs their unrivaled fame. Our constant effort shall be 
to provide for their comfort and well-being in all respects, 
and chiefly in suitable diet, properly prepared and served, in 
healthful and comfortable lodgings and careful attendance. 
To all that large element in American Society who seek 
each summer a brief escape from the heat of cities and the 
lowlands, the turmoils of business and the market-place, the 
wear and tear of the office and the counting-room, we desire to 
say that no where on the continent can rest, recreation and 
rational enjoyment be more surely found than beneath the 
shades of these great Virginia mountains; whilst the speci- 
fic qualities of these mineral waters greatly and rapidly aid 
the ordinary forces of nature in restoring and reinvigorating 
the enfeebled constitution. 
Not wishing to indulge in extravagant promises, we simply 
say that no effort shall be spared on our part to do our whole 
duty to the springs-going public, and so restore to the “ Old 
Rock Alum” its pristine fame, as not merely the most health- 
giving of all our noted Virginia springs, but at the same time 
one of the most charming and attractive summer resorts. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
This celebrated watering-place, although situated in the moun- 
tains of Virginia, 160 miles west of Richmond, and 40 southwest of 
Staunton, is now brought, by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad, 
within easy access of the Atlantic seaboard, and is the first of all 
the Western springs reached by the traveler. The cars now run 
within five mile* of the place; so tnat it is brought within twenty- 
four hours of New York; and the Northern passenger, leaving 
Baltimore or Washington in the morning, and the Southern, break* 
fasting in Richmond, take tea the same evening at the Rockbridge 
Springs. 
Let the Northern traveler be careful not to go as far south 
as Richmond, but from Washington City take the Virginia Midland 
Railroad to Charlottesville, which there connects with the Chesa- 
peake and Ohio. The Southern visitor coming by way of the At- 
lantic seaboard route, must be careful to come as far north as 
Richmond, making that a point whence he will proceed by the 
Chesapeake and Ohio cars to Goshen. 
Persons from the South and Southwest, passing over the Ten- 
nessee Railroad, make Lynchburg a poiut, thence to Charlottesville, 
where they take the Central cars, passing in full view of the Uni- 
versity of Virginia. 
Visitors to these Springs get off the cars at Goshen Depot, 8 miles 
from tb.e Springs, and are conveyed up the valley in coaches or 
omnibuses to the Springs. 
The Natural Bridge, being in the same county with this Spring, 
and to which it gives its name, is an object of great attraction to 
the visitors. 
ROUTES TO THE SPRINGS— FACILITY OF ACCESS, 
MEDICAL PROPERTIES OP THE WATER, 
For fifty years or more, these Springs (-without any other sort of 
advertising than that afforded by the visitors themselves, who have 
either experienced or witnessed the cures wrought by them) have 
gradually extended their fame throughout Virginia and the South, 
To make their healing virtues more widely and more accurately 
known to the whole public, is the object of this pamphlet. The ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
5 
proprietors have great pleasure in presenting the following letters 
from distinguished gentlemen of different States and professions. 
Letter from, John Staige Davis, M.A., M.D., Professor of Anatomy 
and Materia Medici, University of Virginia, and at present 
Resident Physician Rockbridge Alum Springs. 
Rockbridge Alum Springs, September 8,1880 
J. Fred. Effinger, Pres. Rockbridge Alum Springs Co. : 
Dear Sir.—Your letter of the 17th inst. reached me by trie lust 
mail, and I hasten to answer it. I have been “ Resident Physi- 
cian” at these Springs for the last eight years, and was also here as 
an invalid for a portion of two summers, 1858 and 1855. 
Most of the effects which I daily’ observe from the use of the 
waters, are such as the presence of their chief ingredients might 
suggest. These are Alumnia, free from Sulphuric Acid and Iron, 
and accordingly their most conspicuous properties are Astringent 
and Tonic, adapting them to the cure of Chronic Diarrhoea, Chronic 
Dysentery, Chronic Bronchitis, Catarrh of the Throat and Nasal Pas- 
sages, Hemorrhage from the Kidneys, and Anmnia. It always gives 
much greater efficacy to appropriate treatment of Lacorrlum and 
Menorrhagia, and often entirely supersedes the necessity for it. But 
this Alum Water also proves signally beneficial in several other 
diseases where its action can neither be anticipated nor explained. 
In Scrofula, for example, even though apparently inveterate, it makes 
many cures, which the sequel proves are permanent. In Incipient 
Phthisis the symptoms often disappear. In ’Diabetes Mellitus, tlfc 
urine ceases to be saccharine, and the strength and flesh return.— 
Various Cutaneous Eruptions, especially those of the Vesicular and 
Pustular Classes, commonly get. well. And Inactivity of the Liver is 
relieved with a promptness and certainty which the minute pro 
portions of the alkaline and alkaline-earthy salts in the water would 
not have prepared one to expect. But perhaps the place is more 
resorted to for the cure of Dyspepsia than with any other single pur- 
pose, and it is matter of common observation that in the course of 
two or three weeks the appetite returns, and the digestion becomes 
healthy and vigorous. 
1 am, dear sir, very truly yours, 
J. S. Davis, M. D., Resident Physician. 
From Dr. Cartwright, of New Orleans, whose eminent medical 
character, no less than his personal familiarity with the leading 
springs of Europe and this country, stamps his opinion with the 
highest authority. 
He spent two years in visiting and examining the various Spas 
in Europe. 
Dk. Cartwright’s Letter. 
New Orleans, July 28,1853. 
Dear Sir.—Names are something, and the name “ Alum,," given to 
the Rockbridge Acidulous Ferruginous Springs, is a misnomer, as it 
conveys the erroneous idea that their medicinal virtues are chiefly 6 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
owing to the alum they contain; whereas the water, in addition to 
the alum, contains nearly every medical substance of the most 
celebrated Mineral Springs of Europe. Why not, therefore, give it 
a name that would not lead to error ? Why not drop the word alum, 
and call it simply Rockbridge water ? The Tunbridge water may 
with as much propriety be called table-salt water as yours alum. 
Common salt and alum can be had anywhere; no need of going to 
Tunbridge or Rockbridge to get one'or the other. But the Tun- 
bridge and the Rockbridge waters both contain a number of other 
substances, as protoxide of iron and the salts of lime, magnesia and 
soda, with more or less carbonic acid. Besides containing all the 
principal ingredients found in the Tunbridge and Bath Mineral 
Springs of England, so celebrated for scrofulous affections and many 
chronic ailments, your Rockbridge water agrees with that of Aix- 
la-Ohapelle in containing silicic acid. It hardly needs to be added 
that the water f the Aix-la-Chapelle Springs, internally and ex- 
ternally used, has long been famous for the cure of chronic rheu- 
matism. The styptic taste, transparency and inodorous character 
of the acidulous ferruginous waters of Rockbridge county, Virginia, 
attracted invalids to use them, as the same sensible qualities in the 
Bath waters attracted the Romans soon after the conquest of 
England. 
Although inodorous and transparent, the Rockbridge water has a 
blackish and rather repulsive appearance in the Springs. In this it 
agrees Avith the mineral waters of Bagneres, in Upper Garonne, 
which comes out of a mountain of similar geological formation with 
the mountain in the vicinity of the Rockbridge Springs. The Bag- 
neres water has long been very popular for the cure of stiffness of 
the limbs, lymphatic congestions, engorgement of the joints, paraly- 
sis, dyspepsia, chronic catarrhs, and chlorosis. The Rockbridge 
water has every ingredient in it that the most careful analysis has 
discovered in the Yiche water. It contains less carbonic acid than 
the Yiche water, but is richer in everything else. It could easily he 
charged with more carbonic acid, artificially, if that were desirable. 
The Yiche Avater is highly recommended for engorgements of the 
liver and spleen, biliary concretions, diseases of the kidney, fluor 
albus, and chronic disfigurements of the skin, caused by diseased 
viscera. 
The Springs of Spa, in Ouertha, so celebrated throughout Europe 
for chronic nephritis, calculous affections, leucorrhoea, visceral 
catarrhs and debility of the digestive organs, contain no other sub- 
stances than those found by analysis in the water of the Rock- 
bridge Springs, and might Avith as much propriety be called Alum 
Spring, as they hold in solution a considerable quantity of alum. 
The Avaters of Passy, so useful in languor of the digestive sys- 
tem, and in the cure of scorbutic affections, visceral engorgements, 
passive hemorrhages, as menorrhagia, piles, &c., hold in solution 
the sulphate of lime, sulphate of magnesia, alumina, chloride of 
sodium, and the peroxide of iron, all of which are found in much 
larger proportions (fully three times as much) in the Rockbridge 
Springs,—the latter Springs containing the iron in the form of a 
protoxide, a much milder and safer salt than the peroxide of the 
Passy water. 
In truth, I know of no water in Europe or America so rich in 
medical substances as that of the Rockbridge Springs. My atten- ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
7 
tion was first attracted to it some fifteen years ago, by observing 
that the sojourners at the Rockbridge Springs were generally com- 
posed of invalids from Virginia, while those at the other Springs 
were mostly from distant parts of the Union, more in search of 
pleasure than health. Most of these other Springs in the Virginia 
mountains have a deservedly high reputation for the efficacy of 
their water in a variety of chronic ailments; but I am satisfied that 
the Rockbridge Springs have not yet attained that wide celebrity 
they deserve, from the circumstance of their being regarded as 
merely Alum Springs, instead of being seen in their true light as 
the richest of all that class of Mineral Springs known as the acid- 
ulous ferruginous,—a class of mineral waters to which the most 
famous Springs of the world belong. 
Respectfully, your ohed’t serv’t, 
To Vm. Frazier, Esq., 
Alum Springs, Rockbridge County, Va, 
Sam’l A. Cartwright. 
From Dr. Cabell, Professor in the Medical Pepari-ment of Univer- 
sity of Virginia. 
February 5,1867. 
William Frazier, Esq.—My Dear Sir: It gives me pleasure to 
comply with your request that I would bear testimony to the medi- 
cinal virtues of the Rockbridge Alum Water. 
My observations, made during a sojourn at the Springs of several 
weeks at a time, on two successive summers, led me to the conclu- 
sion that the popular estimate of the efficacy of the Alum Water in 
the treatment of many chronic diseases is not an exaggerated one. 
It is, indeed, admitted that a more or less considerable proportion of 
casts of inveterate chronic diseases, for which relief is sought by 
the use of that water, derive no permanent benefits from it, but it 
is undeniable that an unusually large proportion of grave and 
obstinate cases which baffle the ordinary resources of the healing 
art, are annually cured at your Springs. These cases, so far as they 
have fallen under my immediate observation, may be classed under 
the following heads: 
1. Occasional attacks of Indigestion, attended with violent gas* 
tralgia, the water being taken in the intervals of the attacks. 
2. Confirmed Dyspepsia in nearly all its varieties, except such as 
arc attended with symptoms of acute gastric irritation. 
3. Chronic Diarrhcea. 
4. Leucorrhcea. 
5. Scrofulous Ulcers, and other Scrofulous Affections of the Skin 
and of the Lymphatic Glands. 
6 Chronic Eczema. 
So potent an agent requires, of course, some caution in its admin- 
istration to persons suffering with unequivocal symptoms of disease. 
All such persons should use this, as they use, or ought to use, other- 
powerful remedies, under the advice and supervision of a compe- 
tent physician. 
Very respectfully and truly yours,. 
J. L. Cabell, 8 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
And in another letter Prof. Cabell writes as follows; 
“ Let it suffice to say that though there are innumerable ‘Alum 
Springs ’ in the State, none of them have been able to compete 
with the latter in its hold on the popular confidence. Its extraor- 
dinary efficacy in the cure of chronic cutaneous affections, and 
especially of scrofulous tumefactions and ulcers, suggests the pres- 
ence and operation of an agent not expressed by its name, which 
name is due to the predominant taste of a ferruginous alum, with 
a notable excess of sulphuric acid. 
“It has achieved wonders in the cure of Chronic Diarrhoea, not 
so much, as I have been led to believe from some observations, by 
its astringency, as indirectly by its influence on the digestive func- 
tion. Indeed, 1 believe it to be a very powerful agent, susceptible 
of various useful applications in the treatment of many diseases of 
a chronic nature.” 
Fi •om Dr. T. Gaillard Thomas, Professor Obstetrics, College Phy- 
sicians and Surgeons, New York. 
8(1 Fifth Avenue, N. Y„ March 13,1867. 
William Frazier—Dear Sir: In reply to your inquiry as to 
the estimate in which I hold the water of the “ Rockbridge Alum 
Springs,” of Virginia, I would state that I regard it as one of the 
most efficient astringent and tonic mineral waters which I have ever 
employed. Its use in Dyspepsia and Chronic Diarrhoea and Dysen- 
tery often proves of very great value, and in these affections I am 
in the daily practice of employing it. Respectfully yours, 
T. G. Thomas, M D. 
From Du. Emmet, of New York City. 
Rockbridge Alum Springs, Va. 
William Frazier—Dear Sir; In answer to your request, I 
cheerfully bear testimony to the great efficacy of the Alum Water 
of your Springs as an adjuvant in the treatment of diseases pecu- 
liar to woman. It is a most valuable tonic, and in the treatment 
of a large class of cases suffering from discharges resulting irom 
a want of tone, together with general derangement of the digestive 
system, I know of no Mineral Water so efficacious. It is so readily 
assimilated that I have never known its use to disagree with or 
derange the stomach. Frequently where tonics and the prepara- 
tions of iron are most indicated they are badly borne. In such 
cases I have always found that by a judicious use of these Waters 
at first, the system could be brought up to a point of toleration. 
I have used both the water and the dried preparation, or salts, 
in private practice and in the Woman’s Hospital, for several years 
to my great satisfaction. 
So valuable do I consider the agent in the class of cases in which 
I have chiefly employed it, that I wish you every success in your 
efforts to bring it into more general use. 
Yours respectfully, 
Thomas Addis Emmet, 
73 Madison Av., N, Y, ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
9 
Extracts from a Letter of Rev. James W. Alexander, D. D., of 
New York, published in the New York Observer, July, 1855. 
The Alum Springs op Virginia.—Much, as has been said about 
the mineral and fontal wealth of Virginia, the readers of the 
Observer may still receive some new information concerning the 
Springs named above. As being among the latest resorts in these 
extraordinary mountains, they have been less frequently described 
than some others. My observation will apply principally to the 
Rockbridge Spring, as it is this only at which I have remained any 
considerable time. And my reason for as ting a place in your col- 
umns at all, is my belief that these waters are eminently fitted to 
relieve thousands of sufferers, whose case is seldom reached by 
artificial medicines. 
The Rockbridge Alum Spring is in the same county with the 
famous Natural Bridge, but in the northern part, on the high-road 
between Lexington and the celebrated Warm Springs ; being about 
twenty miles from the latter. Though alum exists in large meas- 
ure, and gives the predominant taste to the water, the medicinal 
qualities of the Spring are by no means due to this agent alone. 
There are also present free sulphuric acid, protoxide of iron, and 
the sulphates of potash, lime and magnesia. But neither this 
statement, nor the elaborate analyses of Professors Rogers and 
Hayes, in any degree account for tire manifest effects of the water. 
Indeed, it is well known that agents which are inert or hurtful in 
the hands of the pharmaceutist, possess a great power as proceed- 
ing from nature’s laboratory. The same nominal combinations 
result in widely different things: thus (to borrow an example) the 
union of nitrogen and oxygen makes, in one proportion, the air we 
breathe; in another, nitrous oxide; and in a third, nitric acid. It 
is only on empirical grounds, therefore, that we judge mineral 
springs to have such and such effects. In the case of the Alum 
Springs these effects are as strong and potent as in any yet reported, 
and the benefit has been derived by classes of sufferers who have 
had least advantage from the faculty. 
Many years ago it was known by hunters that an alum spring 
broke out of these cliffs. Long before any houses were erected, 
people who had ulcers, tetters, salt rheum, scrofula and other skin 
affections, used to come here and encamp. The next step was to 
rear log cabins; and now, at length, for several years, it has been 
a place of general resort. 
A dish-like vale, or basin, in the midst of hard but picturesque 
ridges, contains these fountains, which issue from five chambers 
hewn in tho rock, at the base of a cliff of slate, so bared as to ex- 
pose the sloping strata for many square feet below, while it is sur- 
mounted by a crest of green forest. A spacious area of green, 
within a circular drive, is begirt by a number of brick cottages, 
here called cabins; but there are other houses of greater extent. 
The verdure is rich, and the view's of the North Mountain and the 
western wall of the Great Valley, and of some lesser ridges, are 
pleasing. It is one of the singular advantages of these Virginian 
watering-places, that, by wralking for three minutes, you can plunge 
yourself at once into glens and tangled wilds. The amphitheatre 
around a chalybeate spring, for instance, is thronged with fine 10 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
trees and enriched with a luxuriant flora. The rhododendron is, 
indeed, no longer in bloom, but the scarlet woodlily, the fragrant 
pyrala maculata, the Mitchella repens, embroidering whole banks, 
and a variegated collection of yellow, red and orange fungi and 
lichens, reward the easy pursuit. A rattlesnake, lately captured, 
is exhibited in a barrel; there is a rumor of a bear having paced 
across the lawn; and the venison of every meal testifies that we are 
in a wild country. 
The alum waters (for the springs vary in character) are found 
useful in a number of diseases. The statement of Dr. Christian, of 
Richmond, is published as follows: 
“ They are an invaluable remedy in the cure of all scrofulous and 
cutaneous diseases, lupus and other malignant ulcerations of the 
mouth and throat, chronic diseases of the digestive organs, dyspep- 
sia, diseases of the liver, chronic diarrhoea, scrofulous affections of 
the mesentery and peritoneum, diseases of the urinary organs, 
diabetes, chronic inflammation and irritation of the kidneys, 
bladder and urethra, diseases peculiar to females, amenorrhoea, dys- 
menorrhea i, leucorrhcea, menorrhagia, chronic inflammation and 
ulceration of the uterus, hemorrhoids, all hemorrhagic affections of 
a passive character, and all anaemic conditions of the system and 
broken-down stares of the constitution, whether resulting” from the 
imprudent use of medicine, or the errors of youth. In ail diseases 
of the glandular system, whether of inflammation, induration, or 
deficient secretion, it has no superior, if an equal, as a curative 
agent; restoring the secretions generally to a healthy condition, 
particularly those of the liver, skin and kidneys, whether deficient, 
excessive or of bad quality. Its purgative action is characterized 
by copious bilious discharges, very similar to those produced by 
mercurials. 
“As a remedy in all depraved conditions of the constitution, in- 
volving, as their diseases necessarily do, an unhealthy condition of 
the blood, we know of no agent that has performed such astonish- 
ing cures; thus it is that it has cured scrofula in all its stages and 
worst forms, with its kindred affections. Acting as a purgative or 
astringent, according to the quantity taken, it cures with equal 
facility diseases of the alimentary canal, whether attended with 
constipation or diarrhoea.. Unlike most other mineral waters, it 
retains its curative properties at all seasons of the year, and when 
sent away in bottles, possesses most, if not all, its medicinal virtues.” 
One or two surprising cases wrere pointed out to us at the spot. 
A lady has been in the same building with us, who. though much 
disfigured, is a marvel in respect to recovery. Scrofulous ulcera- 
tion had so eaten into her system as to destroy half the upper jaw- 
bone, several of the small bones, and the entire nose. Beginning 
in 1847, she had visited the Alum Springs for eight years, and is 
perfectly cured. Dr. Mibane, of North Carolina, testifies that he 
has been in like manner freed from a cancerous or cancroid sore on 
the nose, which had baffled alt medical and surgical treatment. 
Startling instances of the cure of dyspepsia and chronic diarrhoea 
are occurring every year. These waters are not a nostrum ; every- 
body sees and knows all about, them. They are not a quack medi- 
cine ; the regular faculty exhibit them under due guards and 
cautions. We have felt it to be a duty to increase, so far as we 
could, the public knowledge of these fountains. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
11 
Editorial Extract from the Alabama Beacon, embodying a letter from 
Dk. Graham, 
Rockbridge Alum Springs.—The attention of our readers is 
particularly invited to an advertisement of this very popular water- 
ing-place, which will be found in to-day’s Bidcon. Having spent a 
few weeks, last summer, at these Springs, we can confidently recom- 
mend them, not only on account of the medicinal virtues of the 
waters, hut for their favorable location and the manner in which 
they are kept. Of all the watering-places in Virginia, we doubt if 
there is one (the White Sulphur Springs, possibly, excepted) that is 
annually visited by a larger number of invalids; and a very large 
proportion of them Virginians, who may fairly be presumed to give 
them a preference because of the medicinal virtues of be water. 
That our readers, and especially those who are contemplating a 
trip this summer to some of the Virginia watering-places, may 
know for what diseases these waters are considered < fficacinus, we 
give below some interesting facts, furnished us by Du. Graham, 
the resident physician, and which we incorporated into one of the 
letters we wrote from the Rockbridge Alum, last summer. Dr. G., 
as we remark, has, as he informed us, visited these Springs profes- 
sionally every summer, except two, since the year 1830, when they 
first began to attract attention : 
“ The Rockbridge Alum Springs began to attract attention about 
the year 1830; persons from the adjacent country were in the habit 
of visiting them and camping out, sleeping for weeks in their wagons 
and rude huts, that they might avail themselves of the virtue of 
these waters in the cure of eruptive and cutaneous diseases They 
were found very efficacious in the cure of obstinate and indolent 
ulcers: amongst them many of a scrofulous character were entirely 
relieved. 
“In consequence of these successful cures, the reputation of the 
waters gradually spread, and persons laboring under other diseases 
were induced to give them a trial. The result has been that the 
Rockbridge Alum Springs have been found to possess more remedial 
virtue, curing more obstinate and inveterate cases, than the waters 
of any known Mineral Springs. 
“As a cure for Scrofula or King’s Evil in its various stages? their 
reputation is now established ; wjiejther appearing in small, flat pus- 
tules about the mouth and ears of children—in ophthalmic inflam- 
mation—in enlargement and ulceration of the glands and neck,— 
the result has been the same. Many cases of that obstinate and 
heretofore incurable species called Lupus have been thoroughly and 
radically cured. 
“ Dyspepsia, in its various stages, with all its train of horrible 
nervous symptoms, has been in innumerable instances relieved, and 
many cases effectually and permanently cured. 
“ Chronic diarrhoea, after exhausting the best medical skill, has 
been compelled to yield to the curative powers of these waters. 
“ In no class of diseases have their powers been more signally 
manifested than in those peculiar to the female constitution. In 
hemorrhages, whether from the lungs or otherwise, these waters 
have given immediate and permanent relief. Their immediate and 
direct operation is that of a stimulating diuretic and cathartic. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
When used lor a considerable length of time, their alterative effect 
is very apparent. Cases of great debility and prostration of the 
system, from whatever cause originating, will find the tonic proper- 
ties of these waters refreshing and restorative. 
“ The reputation of these Springs is daily increasing, every year 
adding to the list of remarkable cures they have effected. The vis- 
itors who frequent them outnumber those of any other Mineral 
Spring in the State, only excepting the White Sulphur.” 
Letter from Rev. Dr. Hall, of Trenton, N- J., published in 
August, 1855. 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
Location—lngredients of the waters—Their great virtues—Disadvantage 
of a misnomer—Mountain seclusion—Religious services. 
Alum Springs, Rockbridge Co., Ya., ) 
August 8,1855. ) 
Messrs. Editors.—l am not about to furnish you a letter on “ the 
Virginia Springs,” but wish to introduce to your Northern readers a 
comparatively recent addition to that wonderful group of medicinal 
reservoirs. 
The more celebrated springs of this State lie in the counties of 
Greenbrier, Monroe and Bath. That from which I write is in the 
central county of Rockbridge, so named from the great natural arch 
which, at the height of two hundred and fifteen feet, and with a 
length of ninety-three feet, spans Cedar Creek. We are forty miles 
southwest from Stahnton, and seventeen northwest from Lexington. 
As for the distance it will give the best standard to say that you may 
breakfast at the city of Washington or Alexandria and lodge here. 
This Spring suffers disadvantage from the imperfect designation 
given in its name. The predominant taste is of alum, which is the 
largest ingredient of the mixture; but with it are combined iron, 
lime, magnesia, sodium, soda, ammonia and potash, and the chief 
solvents are sulphuric and carbonic acids. It seems to be admitted 
by chemical and medical men that the best analysis may have failed 
to detect some of its most potent constituents. Certain it is that the 
use of the water produces greater and more various results upon the 
human system, diseased or healthy, than can be accounted for from 
any analogy in the ordinary exhibition of the same materials. 
To the intelligence of the plain observer, the arrangement describes 
itself as a mass of some of the most efficacious substances which the 
laboratory of a kind Providence has prepared for the relief of human 
ailments, heaped together in this spot, and their combined virtues 
soaked out of them by the springs of the mountain and the rain of 
the clouds. 
I have seen a letter written, within a few days, by Dr. Cartwright, 
an eminent physician of New Orleans, who, after a season here, and 
a tour of years among the most celebrated “ Spas” and “ Brunnen” 
and “Wells” of Europe, pronounces this water worthy of a place 
among the most extraordinary of its class. He gives to the combi- 
nation the description of “acidulous ferruginous,” and remarks that ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
it would be as unscientific and improper to call the celebrated Tun- 
bridge Spring “ table salt” as to call this by the single term ‘ alum.” 
This leads me to suggest, that if a more correct or attractive or 
fashionable name should be devised as a substitute for the one now 
objected to, we might adopt the Tunbridge title for our Rockbridge, 
and call it “ Rockbridge Wells.” the name would not be as inap- 
plicable here as to most springs, for the water is not seen to drip, or 
flow, or bubble, but is discovered in five distinct rocky basins, below 
the surface of the ground, at the base of that high cliff of slaty stone 
where it is so curiously made in secret, and in recesses so dark that 
it may literally be said that no one can see the depth, though in re- 
ality it is shallow. 
The diseases for which the Rockbridge Spring is resorted to are 
all the scrofulous and cutaneous varieties, chronic dyspepsia, dis- 
eases of the glandular system, disordered state of the secretions in 
general. It has cured bad cases of bronchitis and sore throat, and 
its tonic and alterative properties have sent away many “ walking, 
and leaping, and praising God,” who came in the most desponding 
condition of debility. 
At this date we have about 850 boarders. Families are comfort- 
ably accommodated in the admirable Virginian plan of separate 
brick cottages, surrounding a lawn of several acres. The North and 
Mill Mountains skirt the plain in which this retreat lies hidden, and 
seem to overhang it with their unhroken forests of oak and pine. 
No town, village or hamlet is within reach of walk or drive, unless 
we except the furnace of the Messrs. Jordan, where the iron-ore of 
the adjacent mountain is smelted. The seclusion is as entire and 
romantic as can be desired by any one who would enjoy for a few? 
weeks, while it may still be found, what was once understood as “ the 
country.” The railway is, indeed, creeping onward. It now actu- 
ally climbs the great mountain ridge, the locomotive dragging up its 
train through the stupendous passage of Rockflsh Gap; but it will 
keep at a distance of five miles from this nest in the wilderness. 
Out of reach of church and pastor as wre are, we have not been 
without the privilege of public worship; and pleasant it is to unite 
in these quiet and sublime scenes with our countrymen from every 
quarter and with Christians of every name, under the softening in- 
fluences of a common faith and common afflictions, in the holy ob- 
servances of the Lord’s own day. 
The following valuable letter is from Dr. Moorman, long a resi- 
dent physician at the White Sulphur Springs, and author of the 
well-known work on the Mineral Springs of Virginia. 
Oakwood, March 24,1857. 
My Dear Sir.—I have received the pamphlet you were so kind as 
to send me. I thank you for the opportunity of examining it. It 
contains much valuable matter in elucidation of the peculiar efficacy 
of the Rockbridge Alum Waters in various obstinate diseases, and 
of which I shall avail myself in my forthcoming volume. Not that 
such information has afforded me, personally, any new light as to the 
efficacy of that water in the cases given. I had fully appreciated it ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRING A 
in all such cases before, and have long spoken of the spring as hold- 
ing a deservedly high rank among the mineral waters of the world. 
But, as affording concurrent testimony, the pamphlet is valuable to 
me as an author. 
If not too late for your new edition, I would, as a friend, advise 
you to insert Dr. Mcrheeters’ letter to me, which you will find at 
page 226 of my second edition, It is from a 1 gentleman of very high 
and, in our Southern country, of widely extended reputation, if is 
the best synopsis in brief that has been given of the therapeutic 
action of those waters, and to intelligent persons generally, and es- 
pecially to physicians, will form a valuable illustration and ex- 
position of their peculiar nature and efficacy. 
It is a matter of no little importance that ihe public should be 
fully apprised of the remarkable influence exerted by the Bock- 
bridge Alum Waters in strumous diseases especially. They have 
long stood as a reproach to our profession, and never but in these 
waters has a remedy been found that deserves the name of specific 
for their cure. 
If the opinion I have expressed in my volume on this subject can 
in your judgment, be in anywise useful in increasing or confirming 
the" public confidence in the value and efficacy of the water as a 
healing agent, it is, of course, very much at your service. 
I commenced to write but a line of thanks for your pamphlet, and 
have spun out a letter 
Very respectfully, your ob’t serv’t, 
To Wm. Frazier, Esq. 
J. J. Moorman. 
Extracts from Da. Moorman’s new work on the Virginia Springs. 
“ These waters certainly possess unequivocal curative powers, and 
although their reputation is now high, they are destined to advance 
still further in public confidence. Experience lias fully shown that 
they are very efficaciously used in many diseases of the skin and 
glandular system, and that in scrofulous affections they offer new 
hopes t > the afflicted. 
“ Chemically considered, it is an aluminous svlphated chalybeate, 
containing, as will be seen from its analysis, many of the bestmate- 
rials that are found in the most valued mineral waters in Europe or 
this country. The protoxide of iron, sodium, potash, lime, magnesia, 
and ammonia together with sulphuric, carbonic, crenic, chloric and 
silicic acids, exist in the water in common with alum. Some of 
these ingredients are found in the most distinguished of the English 
and German waters, particularly in those of Tunbridge, Harrogate, 
Le imington, and Aix-la-Chapelle, as well as in the waters of the 
famous Bpa, in Oarthe, in those of Passy, and in the celebrated 
Springs of Bagneres, in Garronne, all of which have acquired a 
world-wide celebrity for the core of many diseases for which the 
Rockbridge Alum has been successfully prescribed. 
‘"These waters have been rapidly increasing in the public favor 
and confidence since they first became a resort for valetudinarians. 
'They possess rare but well-established medicinal virtues, and as 
their therapeutical applicability shall be more closely and distinctly 
defined, they must still further advance in popular and professional 
confidence. BOCKBRIXM3E ALUM SPRINGS. 
15 
“The immediate effects of these waters, under their full and 
kindly influences upon the system, are those of a febrifuge tonic; 
resembling the action of some of our best vegetable medicines of 
that class; hut superior to them from a specific tendency to the 
bowels and kidneys. 
“ By their diffusible astringent and tonic powers, they resolve the 
congestions of engorged viscera, and remove subacute inflamma- 
tions, thus releasing and giving activity to the fluids; they fill up the 
superficial capillaries and veins, and give a full, slow pulse, with a 
warm surface and soft skin. 
“ They purge mildly, perhaps, two-thirds of the persons that use 
them freely. Their action upon the kidneys is generally prompt, 
sure and sometimes active. Their action upon the skin is secondary, 
and is the result of their sanative actions upon the blood-vessels and 
internal organs, by resolving inflammation and congestion, and 
hence is always to be regarded as a favorable indication in the case. 
“Experience has fully shown that these waters are very effica- 
ciously prescribed in many diseases of the skin and glandular sys- 
tem; lupus and other malignant ulcerations of the mouth and 
throat have been cured by them. 
“ In various chronic affections of the digestive organs, either sim- 
ple or implicating the liver, they are advantageously used. 
“They are very valuable in'mesenteric affections, particularly in 
persons, old or young, of scorbutic tendencies 
“ In chronic diarrhoea, they display speedy and happy effects. 
‘ Being prompt and active as a diuretic, when judiciously used, 
they are found very beneficial in chronic irritations and debility of the 
kidney, bladder and urethra. 
“ To several of the affections commonly known as female diseases, 
they are very happily adapted In leucorrhaa, as would readily be 
inferred from their composition, they are an admirable remedy, 
often curing that disease, although it has been a complaint of long 
standing. In menorrhagia, unattended with plethora of the blood- 
vessels, and with the system in a condition to bear tonics, they may 
be prescribed with great confidence. In amenorrhcea and dysmen- 
orrium, where a phlogosed state of the system does not contra- 
indicate the use of mineral tonics', they may be used to eminent 
advantage. In the chlorotic condition of the female system gener- 
ally, and especially when the tendency is great to paucity or poverty 
of blood, the waters will be used to much advantage. 
“ In anemia conditions generally, and ia cases of debility and loss 
of tone in the nervous system, they may be administered with much 
confidence. 
“ Bronchitis, when in connection with a strumous diathesis, may 
be treated by these waters to great advantage; in such cases it will 
be found to be one of our best remedial. 
“In Oastralgia, or nervous dyspepsia, they often act most kindly 
and effectively, by changing the action of the mucous membrane 
and relieving it of its subacute irritation. 
“ They actively promote the appetite, and invigorate, the digestive 
powers. 
“ But it is especially in Scrofula that these waters have won their 
highest honors and established a reputation, not only among the 
best mineral waters of this country, but of the world Their happy 
combination of tonic, alterative, diuretic and aperient qualities ren- 16 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
der them an efficient remedy in many of the ills of humanity; but 
especially in the various forms of strumous disease, and even their 
worst forms, they merit confidence and deserve praise. In this 
formidable class of affections, whether exhibiting itself in the hard- 
ened and enlarged glands, and in ulcerations in children, in oph- 
thalmic inflammations, in mesenteric indurations, or in its more 
intense and pervading development of adult life, they have been 
extensively used, and generally with great benefit to the sufferers. 
“ Scrofula or King’s Evil, has heretofore, to a large extent, stood 
as a reproach to the healing art; for although occasional remedies 
have claimed reputation for its cure, and often not without solid 
merit, it may well be doubted whether any has yet come into pop- 
ular use that is more generally successful than the Rockbridge Alum 
waters, when properly administered. This opinion of their high 
merit in such cases, is not the result of slight observations, or of 
their fortunate effects in one or twTo remarkable cases; on the con- 
trary, it is the result of the knowledge of their employment for many 
years, in cases of various degrees of intensity, and in patients of 
dissimilar ages and constitutions. The suffering of thousands, in 
whom the germ of scrofula is implanted (or who are laboring under 
its developed evils, and who are not likely, as I believe, to obtain a 
more efficient remedy than is afforded by these waters), will be 
esteemed a sufficient justification for the earnestness with which I 
indicate my confidence of their use in such cases. But let me not 
be misunderstood as intending to convey the impression that they 
will cure every case of this disease, whatever may be its seat, char- 
acter or combination; both my judgment and experience fall short 
of this conclusion; but they both concur in regarding the remedy 
as among the best, if not the very best, nowT known for scrofula, 
and one that is calculated to brighten the hopes of those who may 
be the subjects of this formidable ma'ady. 
“The Rockbridge Alum, as therapeutic water, is not a negative 
agent; its effects upon the system are positive, direct and palpable. 
It is in a high sense of the term a medicinal water, capable, when 
properly directed and applied, of doing great good in a wide circle 
of cases, or, when injudiciously used, of disappointing hopes and 
producing injury. It does not belong to that anomalous class of 
agents of which it is often said ‘ they will do no harm, if they do no 
good.’ Such being the potent character of these waters, the import- 
ance that cases, which are to be submitted to their use, should be 
carefully discriminated, and that the water should he employed 
under the direction of judgment and experience, must be apparent 
to all. It is a fortunate circurascance for the invalid public, as well 
as for the solid reputation of the Springs, that several medical gen- 
tlemen of intelligence and acquirements are in the habit of making 
their residence there during the watering-seasons, whose experience 
has made them familiar with the powers and applicabilities of the 
water, and who are therefore qualified to direct the invalid in its 
proper use. 
“ The residuary salts of the water obtained by evaporation are 
also a subject of transportation, and are frequently used in substi- 
tution where the water cannot be procured. A piece of this residuum 
or mass, of the size of a common pea, dissolved in a half-pint of 
common water, will make it of about the strength of the water at 
the spring. This mass, administered in the dose of from three to ROCKBItn>GB ALUM SPJUNU3, 
four grains, in aromatic syrup of rhubarb, and repeated thrice daily, 
has proved a valuable remedy in obstinate bowel-complaints of chil- 
dren, produced from teething, when unattended with fever. In 
adult practice, it is sometimes beneficially used in the dose of from 
five to fifteen grains, to strengthen and promote digestion. 
“ The proprietors of this watering-place have adopted the plan of 
keeping open their establishment for the use of invalids during the 
spring and fall mouths, as well as during the summer. 
“ This is an excellent arrangement , inasmuch as it affords to inva- 
lids the opportunity of using the waters fresh at the spring unan- 
noyed by the summer crowd. The strength of the water, and its 
medicinal action upon the system, will be found to be essentially the 
same during the spring, summer and fall.” 
{PW°CatjTXQn.—The proprietors respectfully warn visitors against 
a very prevalent error,—that of drinking copiously of the water 
immediately on their arrival, when the system is probably more or 
less deranged by the fatigues of travel. It is a safe rule under all 
circumstances to commence the use of the wrater in small quantities. 
It might be still safer for invalids to consult the resident physician, 
who is thoroughly acquainted with the use of the water. 
One thing more. Pray don’t expect a miracle to be wrought for 
you, and, if it is not wrought, thereupon pack up bag and baggage 
and leave at once. Which is all one as to say, do not expect an 
inveterate chronic disease to be expelled from your system in a few 
days, and perfect health (to which you have long been a stranger) to 
return to you in a night. If, upon due advisement and considera- 
tion, you have determined to try these waters, why, try them; give 
them a fair trial, and peradventure they may heal your malady and 
restore long-lost health. We do not know that they will do so in 
any given case, and, of course, cannot guarantee that they will in 
yours. But this we do know, and have repeatedly witnessed, in- 
stances of persons who, though at first (for some days and even 
weeks) greatly discouraged, yet, either blessed with patience and 
fortitude, or urged by some kind friend, have persisted in the use of 
the Welter and been finally restored to health. One case, out of 
many such, occurs to the writer, as falling under his observation 
last summer; that of a most estimable gentleman from a Southern 
State, who, having suffered for years under chronic diarrhoea, and 
subsisted, for eighteen months or more, almost wholly, perhaps 
exclusively, on a little tea and crackers, having traveled many hun- 
dred miles to reach these Springs, was on the point of leaving them 
on the third or fourth day after his arrival, simply because he had 
not been made the subject of a miracle. A casual acquaintance of 
an adjoining room, an elderly lady who had long known the water 18 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
and rightly appreciated its virtues, with great difficulty constrained 
him to stay longer and give the water a fair trial. In less than a 
month from that time the gentleman found health and strength, and 
was vigorously attacking plum-cake and ice-creams, and commit- 
ting other like indiscretions of renovated youth. 
Therefore persevere at least half as long, and half as patiently as 
you would, and as thousands actually do, in the use of nostrums 
and quack medicines, and all the vile compounds which, by system- 
atic puffing, make so many fortunes and ruin so many constitutions. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
PROF. M. B. HARDIN. 
This celebrated watering-place is situated in Rockbridge County, 
Ya., about seventeen miles northwest of Lexington, in a narrow 
valley, between Mill and North Mountains. The Springs, four in 
number, are basins picked out at the base of the ledge of shales 
lying at the foot of Mill Mountain. These shales are charged with 
a large quantity of finely divided pyrites. This mineral is decom- 
posed by the action of the atmosphere, protosulphate of iron and 
free sulphuric acid being formed. The sulphuric acid attacks the 
shales, uniting with the alumina and other bases they contain, pro- 
ducing corresponding sulphates. These salts are dissolved by the 
water which penetrates the fissures and insterstices of the rocks, 
and the mineral water thus formed collects in the basins made for 
its reception. The composition of the water is necessarily variable. 
During a dry season, for example, the salts formed by the decompo- 
sitions occuring in the exposed parts of the shales accumulate in the 
strata, the protosulphate of iron being at the same time converted, 
to a great extent, into a basic persulphate. Subsequent rains wash 
down these salts through the crevices of the shales into the springs, 
which become rapidly filled with water much more highly mineral- 
ized, especially with sulphate of alumina, than that furnished by 
the gradual percolations during dry weather. Not only, however, 
does the water of each spring thus vary with the season. Ordi- 
narily, No. 1 is the weakest, No. 4 the strongest, Nos. 3 and 3 being 
intermediate in strength; but it appears that these relations are 
occasionally more or less disturbed. An instance of this kind was 
noticed last summer by the resident physician, Dr. Davis, of the 
University of Yirginia, who states that at one time the water of No. 
3 became much more astringent to the taste than No. 4. The effi- 
cacy of the “Alum water” in the cure of many chronic diseases, 
amongst which may be mentioned diarrhoea, certain forms of dys- 
pepsia, and especially scrofulous ulcers, had suggested the presence 
of some active ingredient in addition to the sulphates of alumina, 
iron, magnesia, and the free sulphuric acid which the water was 
known to contain. In order to determine the facts of the case, the 
proprietor of the Springs was requested to send to this laboratory a 
sample of the “ alum mass ”—salts prepared at the springs by the 
evaporation of the water in iron vessels. The sample was received 
May 37,1878, and upon analysis yielded the following results; rookbbidge alum springs. 
Analysis of the “Alum Mass.” 
Water 
Copper Sulphate 
Iron Protosulphate 
Iron Persulphate (basic) 
Mantra nose Sulphate . 
89.990 
trace 
85.745 
1.997 
0 603 
Nickel “ 
Cobalt “ 
0.056 
0 037 
Zinc “ 
0.024 
Aluminium “ 
9.490 
Calcium “ 
1 112 
Magnesium “ 
2 310 
Potassium “ 
0 804 
0 891 
Lithium “ 
0.005 
Ammonium “ 
trace 
Calcium Phosphate 
Nitric Acid 
Hydrochloric Acid ... 
0.124 
trace 
trace 
trace 
( Silica 4.33 ) 
Insoluble < Alumina and a little Oxide of Iron 166 - 
6.529 
Total 
90.797 
from spring No. 4 It was analyzed with the following results: 
There was next obtained, June 19, 1872, a sample of the water 
Analysis of Spring No. 4. 
Grains of Anhydrous Constituents in One Gallon of 231 Cubic Inches. 
Copper Sulphate 0 00161 
Iron Protosulphate 0 87962 
Iron Persulphate traces 
Mano-ariese SnInflate _ . . 0 61627 
—” r 
0.05463 
0 08885 
Zinc “ 
0 05225 
Aluminium " 
18.99905 
Calcium “ .... 
0 35228 
1.50165 
0.06278 
0 00876 
. 0 01790 
Free Sulphuric Acid.. 
2,53866 
Silicic Acid 
1.92591 
Sodium Chloride 
014246 
Calcium Phosphate 
Calcium Fluoride 
Ammonium Nitrate 
Organic Matter .* 
Total 
Specific Gravity at 60° F. 
The Gases were not estimated. feOCKBBXDCU! ALtTM SPBtSGS. 
21 
Desirous of comparing the composition of the water collected 
just after a rain with that of a sample procured during the dry 
weather of June, further examinations were postponed until Octo- 
ber 25, 1872, when a capital opportunity was afforded. The whole 
summer and early autumn was unusually dry, and from October 7th 
to October 83d there had been little or no rain. On the 23d it com- 
menced raining, and continued to do so lor nearly three days. On 
the 25th the water was collected, and on the 28th received at this 
laboratory, the samples for the main analysis in well corked demi- 
johns and bottles, those for the estimation of the gases in flasks sent 
to the spring for the purpose. The samples were collected and the 
temperature of the springs determined by the proprietor. The 
water for the principal analysis, which was somewhat turbid from 
the recent rains, was allowed to stand until the suspended particles 
had settled, and the perfectly clear liquid was then drawn off from 
the sediment, which was also reserved for analysis. The following 
results were obtained: 
Analy-is of Springs Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4. 
GEAINB 0? ANHYEEOUS CONSTITUENTS IN ONE GALLON OF 231 CUBIC INCHES. 
No, 1. 
No. 2. 
No. 3. 
No. 4. 
Arsenic 
faint trace. 
trace- 
faint trace. 
trace. 
Antimony 
faint trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
Lead Sulphate 
C pper “ 
trace. 
trace. 
trace 
trace 
0.04024 
0.04024 
0.09387 
0.10370 
1.01*50 
0.85955 
1.94443 
0.09i77 
1.75922 
0.5351 L 
2.90122 
1.37352 
M anganese Sulphate 
Nickel “ 
0.16298 
0 14062 
0 33969 
0.32871 
Cobalt ** 
0 (ia:)47 
0 O'432 
0 08083 
0 08124 
Zinc “ 
0.11951 
0 38006 
0.20535 
0.31718 
Aluminium “ 
31.3(852 
42.60887 
43.95506 
73.37335 
1 73110 
3.22303 
6.60586 
2 63598 
6.37371 
3,31527 
7.36110 
Magnesium “ 
0.88761 
Potassium “ 
0.17248 
0.41290 
0.38351 
0.17586 
Sodium “ 
0.02134 
0.02743 
0 03130 
0 03463 
Lithium “ 
0.01852 
0.02006 
0.02008 
0 03241 
Free Sulphuric Acid 
8.23904 
3 82513 
3.04041 
3.08633 
Siiicic Acid 
3 54627 
3.69750 
3.13807 
4.38346 
Sodium Chloride 
0.07547 
0.10585 
0.(0565 
0 14216 
Calcium Phosphate 
0 01735 
0.17251 
0.30071 
0.05174 
Calcium Fluoride 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
Ammonium Nitrate 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
Organic Matter—• 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
trace. 
Total 
43.19185 
63.35936 
61.77342 
94 83748 
No. 1. 
No. 3. 
No. 3. 
No. 4. 
Carbon Dioxide 
13.37 
10.89 
11.95 
13.73 
Oxygen 
153 
1.49 
1.65 
1.64 
Nitrogen 
4.19 
3.98 
4.10 
4 13 
Total 
18.09 
16.38 
17.70 
18.48 
Temperature 
56° F. 
54.5° P, 
54.5° P. 
54 5° F. 
Specific Gravity at 60° F.... 
1.00084 
1.00119 
1.00118 
1.00174 
CUBIC INCHES OF THE CASES IN A GALLON OF WATBE. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRING*. 
The sediment from the water was found to contain a basic per- 
sulphate of iron, silicate of allumina, a little organic matter, and 
traces of lead sulphate, antimony and arsenic. 
The last three substances were not detected in the specimen of 
the “ mass” nor in the sample of No. 4 sent to this laboratory in 
June, 1872, the first indications of them being recognized in the 
analysis of the water obtained in October, 1872, but even then the 
deposits and precipitates were so slight that it was considered neces- 
sary to confirm the presence of these bodies by operating upon a 
larger quantity of the water, making at the same time a parallel 
series of experiments to test the purity of the re-agents and vessels 
employed in the analysis. This was done at the first opportunity 
which presented itself, and the occurrence of these bodies, as well 
as those reported to the proprietor of the Springs in April, 1878, 
has been established beyond all doubt by the analysis of a sample 
of water collected by the writer himself on the 3d of September 
last. That arsenic, antimony and lead were not detected in the 
water examined in June, 1872, is in all probability to be accounted 
for by their existence at that time in proportions too minute to re- 
veal themselves to the analysis of the three or four gallons of water 
operated upon. 
It is hardly necessary to remark that the differences observed 
between the analyses of the “ mass ” and of the water itself are to 
be accounted for to a great extent by the fact that the “ mass” was 
obtained by the evaporation of the water in iron vessels, the liquor 
being transferred from pan to pan as it advanced in concentration. 
It is highly probable, however, that at the time these salts were pre- 
pared, February or March, 1872, the water contained, proportion- 
ately, more protosulphate of iron and free sulphuric acid and less 
sulphate of alumina than the samples brought to this laboratory for 
analysis, which were collected in the summer and autumn of the 
same year. It will be observed, on examining the comparative 
analyses of the samples of Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4, that while the waters 
all contained the same ingredients and possessed in the main the 
same general character, yet the individual constituents did not occur 
in such proportions throughout the series as to indicate that regular 
gradation which would be characteristic of the same mineral water- 
in different states of dilution. The most conspicuous deviations 
from a progression are to be noticed in the small quantity of mag- 
nesia in No. 1, and of manganese in No. 2. The variations in com- 
position to which these remarkable waters are liable constitute an 
interesting subject for future investigation, and furnish an additional 
reason for the propriety of using so powerful an agent only under 
the direction of an intelligent and observant physician. 
Virginia Military Institute, 
Lexington, Va., November 29, 1873. CHALYBEATE SPRING. 
This Spring is situated on the property known as the “ Rock- 
bridge Alum Springs,” about three hundred and fifty yards south- 
east of the Motel. It issues from a hill on the North-Mountain 
side of the little valley which is flanked on the west by the Mill- 
Mountain range. The water is clear, though on standing, it 
gradually deposits a yellowish flocculent sediment, consisting 
essentially of hydrated peroxide of iron and organic matter. A 
deposit of this character is observed upon the sides and bottom of 
the basin, as well as around and below the outlet of the Spring. 
The flow, which is said to be somewhat variable, was estimated on 
the 6th and 10th of August, 1875, at twenty-five gallons per hour- 
The temperature of the water changes with the season, as will be 
seen by the following observations, the last two of which were 
made by the proprietor: 
Date. 
Hour. 
Temp, of Air. 
Temp, of Spring. 
Aug-. 5th, 1875, 
11 A. M. 
76° F. 
61°7 F. 
“ 6th, “ 
11 
78°8 “ 
6L°7 “ 
“ 10th, “ 
11H “ 
71°2 “ 
61°7 “ 
Nov. 17th, “ 
11 “ 
58° “ 
47° “ 
Dec. 12th, “ 
12 M. 
29° “ 
34° “ 
These variations show that the water is sensibly affected by sur- 
face influences, though it is understood that there has been no 
deficiency in supply, nor noticeable alteration in character since 
the discovery of the Spring in 1873. The sample for analysis was 
collected on the 10th of August, 1875, after a week of fair weather, 
though during the preceding fortnight there had been light 
showers nearly every day, and on the Ist and 2nd of August 
had rained with little interruption. The following are the results 
of the analysis, with reference to which it is to be stated that 
although the mode of associating the acid and basic ingrenients 
found in a water is always to some extent arbitrary, yet the ar- 
rangement here adopted is believed to represent fairly the compo- 
sition of the sample examined. SOO.t BRIDO® ALUM SPBINGfiL 
Sodium Carbonate...... ........................ 
...0.05371 
Lithium Carbonate. 
.. .trace. 
Magnesium Carbonate.. 
...0.20454 
Calcium Carbonate.... 
...0.57850 
.. .1.21579 
Iron Carbonate 
Maganese Carbonate 
...0,01088 
Zinc Carbonate........... 
...0.00809 
Nickel Carbonate 
. ..trace. 
Cobalt Carbonate 
., trace. 
Copper Carbonate. 
.. trace. 
Sodium Sulphate........... 
.. .0.42339 
Potassium Sulphate 
...0.19803 
Sodium Nitrate 
...0.08167 
A mmen i urn N i t rate 
.. 0.04661 
Calcium Phosphate 
...0 00184 
Sodium Chloride 
..0.05287 
•. .0 026-53 
.. .0 46588 
Organic Matter. 
0 44905 i Yielding 
. .0.44905 Ammonia 0.00768. 
Total (salts normal) 
...3 87427 
Carbonic Anhydride associated with the Car- i 
[-..0.88333 
bonates to form Bi-Carbonates I 
Total (carbonates as acid salts) 
...4.75760 
Grains of Anhydrous constituents per gallon of 331 cubic inches. 
Carbonic Anhydride (free) — 
Nitrogen.... 
Oxygen :.. 
Light Carburetted Hydrogen. 
Sulphuretted Hydrogen. 
Total 
Cubic inches of the gases per gallon. 
The volumetric determination of the iron on the spot gave 1,219 
grains of Ferrous Carbonate to the gallon. The gravimetric con- 
trol at the laboratory, 1,216 grains per gallon. The Lithium was 
discovered by the spectroscope. The Nickel was found in the sed- 
iment, while the Cobalt was detected along with the other ingre- 
dients in the water itself. The Ammonia yielded by organic matter 
was estimated by the process of Wanklyn, Chapman and Smith. 
It appears from the foregoing results that this water is quite a 
good and pure Chalybeate. It is moreover particularly interest- 
ing to observe that while it contains essentially the same elements 
which occur in the Rockbridge Alum Springs, yet these elements 
exist in such proportions and are so combined as to produce a 
water of totally different character. The Chalybeate is slightly 
alkaline, and its salts chiefly carbonates, while the alum water is 
acid and its salts almost entirely sulphates. 
The Chalybeate lias already been used with benefit, and if the 
water does not undergo any material alteration it will doubtless 
prove an import mt adjunct to the group of remarkable and valua 
ble waters at the Rockbridge Alum Springs. 
Va. Military Institute, Jan. 18, 1876. 
M. B. HARDIN ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
25 
The following letter is from a most intelligent gentleman of Virginia, 
intimately acquainted with the chief mineral springs of the State: 
THE ROCKBRIDGE ALUM WATER A PROBABLE PREVENTIVE OP 
CHOLERA. 
William Frazier, Esq,—Dear Sir: The above caption may at first 
Startle you; but I am convinced that a careful examination of the medi- 
cal properties and effects of the Salts shown, by analysis, to be present 
in the Rockbridge Alum Water, will convince the most incredulous 
that there are very strong reasons for believing it true, and that if there 
be anywhere a curative agent which can be relied on to protect the human 
system against the grasp of Cholera, the admirable Mineral Water of your 
celebrated Springs is that remedy, if used in time, and taken with ordi- 
nary prudence as a prophylactic or preventative. 
According to the analysis of Dr. Hayes, the eminent chemist of Boston, 
one gallon of the water contains the following:— 
Sulphate of potash ..... 1.765 
Sulphate of lime 3.263 
Sulphate of magnesia 1 763 
Protoxide of iron 4.863 
Alumina 17 905 
Crenate of ammonia 0 700 
Chloride of sodium 1.008 
Silicic acid 2.840 
Free sulphuric acid 15.235 
Carbonic acid 7.356 
56.688 
Pure water 55315.312 
58372 000 
Let us examine the medicinal properties of these salts. 
Alumina, as is well known to medical men, is, in small doses, astringent 
and anti-spasmodic; la iarge doses, purgative and emetic. Being diffused 
In the Alum Spring in the proportion of 17 or 18 grains to one gallon of 
water, enough of the latter cannot be taken to make a iarge dose of 
alumina. 
Next to the alumina in quantity, and no doubt by far the most import- 
ant in its effects, is the 
Sulphuric Acid, of which one gallon of the water contains a little mors 
than 15 grains. In regard to its effects a standard medical work says : 
" Diluted Sulphuric Acid is tonic, refrigerant and astringent. It is given 
in low typhoid fevers, and often with advantage.” * * * * “As an as- 
tringent, it is employed in colliquative sweats, passive hemorrhages and 
diarrhoeas dependent on a relaxed state of the mucous membrane of the 
Intestines.” * * * * “In the summer of 1851, attention was called by 
Mr. Buxton, of London, to the remarkable efficacy of diluted Sulphuric 
Acid in several forms of diarrhoea, especially choleraic diarrhoea. In Octo- 
ber, 1853, Dr. H. VV. Puller, of St. George’s Hospital, published a paper in 
the London Medical Times and Gazette, in which he strongly recommends it 
in choleraic diarrhoea from his own experience and that of his friends, in 
more than ninety cases without a single failure.” These extracts are 
from U. S. Dispensatory Edition of 1863, page 936. 
Protoxide of Iron is the very best form of iron for medical use, and ia a 
Powerful tonic. 
Carbonic Acid Water is diuretic, diaphoretic and anti emetic. 
Chloride of Sodium is anti septic. 
More than four-fifths of the solid contents of the water are comprised 
in the salts already named, viz.. Alumina, Sulphuric Acid, Protoxide of 
Iron, Carbonic Acid and Chloride of Sodium. Their combined properties 
are astringent, anti-spasmodic, tonic, refrigerant, diuretic, diapboric, 
anti-emetic and anti-sepcic. Of the remaining ingredients the Sulphate of 
Lime and Silicic Acid are comparatively inert; and the Sulphates of Potash 
and Magnesia, though laxative in their effects, are in too small portions to 
control or even materially to modify the action of the salts which pre- 
dominate so largely in the -water, the properties of which have already 
been stated. 
It has been shown that the Sulphuric Acid alone, in the hands of the 
London physicians, cured ninety cases of choleraic diarrhcea without a 
single failure. That the remedy has at least not lost its reputation in this formidable disease since that time, is proved by the fact that the 
article on that subject, first published in the TJ. S. Dispensatory of 1854, is 
republished without alteration in the same work for 1866. 
The Rockbridge Alum Springs contain not only the Sulphuric Acid, 
but four other salts admirably adapted to the cure of diseases of relaxa- 
tion and debility. All who are conversant with the properties of mineral 
waters know that medicinal agents diffused in them possess vastly more 
activity and virtue than the same quantity of the same substances taken 
as medicine from the drug store. In the first case nature is the chemist- 
in the second, man. A distinguished London physician, the late Dr. 
James Johnson, even asserts in his work on the Economy of Health, that 
one grain of a mineral substance in a mineral water is equal to twenty 
grains prepared by the druggist. 
Bearing these facts in mind, it seems to me very difficult to resist the 
conclusion that the Rockbridge Alum Water, prudently used, would, 
in the great majority of cases, place the system in such a condition as 
materially to lessen the probabilities of an attack of choleraic diarrhcea. And 
as actual cholera is generally preceded by choleraic diarrhcea, in pre- 
venting the latter it, will tend directly to prevent the former. 
Let it be distinctly observed that I speak of the Alum Water as a pre- 
ventative and prophylactic; for were a person actually attacked by cholera 
or choleraic diarrhoea it would not be the appropriate remedy, for the rea- 
son that mineral waters are not suitable remedies for acute diseases. But 
in matters like this how infinitely better is prevention than cure! 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
At Home—Near Columbia, S. C., Bth Oct., 1866. 
William Frazier— Sir: An earnest desire to benefit the suffering 
everywhere, together with a wish to extend the usefulness of the Rock- 
bridge Alum Water, prompts me to write this letter. 
For twelve or thirteen years I have been in bad health; my decline has 
been gradual since 1853 or ’54, at which time I had a severe attack of Acute 
Rheumatism, connected with Dyspepsia, both in the most distressing and 
aggravated form. In 1861 a friend recommended to me the Alum Water. 
I was induced to order a box; after using it for a few weeks I was entirely 
relieved of all my worst symptoms. The continuance of the late unhappy 
war prevented my obtaining it, or I am satisfied that a permanent cure in 
my case would have been effected. 
Last summer and fall all the worst symptoms of my disease began again 
to develop themselves. I visited Virginia and Baltimore, consulted the 
most eminent physicians, was treated by them, but without any relief 
whatever; I returned home, and have been confined to my bed for five 
or six months suffering with Dyspepsia, Chronic Diarrhoea, Inflammation 
of the Bladder, Kidneys, Derangement of the Liver, Inflammation of 
the Mucous Membrane, the most distressing Nausea, Loss of Appetite, 
being unable to retain the most simple food upon my stomach, until finally 
Dropsy in its very worst form supervened. My limbs became swollen and 
stiff, water accumulated in my abdomen and chest, the scrotum became 
dreadfully enlarged, the cuticle so tender and inflamed that the slightest 
abrasion produced sores—in fact, the general poverty of my system and 
rapid decline of strength betokened speedy death. 1 was treated by the 
best physicians here, used all the various preparations of Iron, Quinine, 
etc., etc, with the use of universal diuretics, all without the slightest 
avail. I found death inevitable, and concluded as a last resort to try once 
again the Alum Water. I ordered a box of your agents, Messrs. Purcell, 
Ladd & Co., of Richmond, Va., and after drinking it a few weeks I am 
rapidly recovering, being once again able to walk about, As I have seen 
no report of the cure of Dropsy by the use of the Alum Water, I write 
to say that in my case it has been the only remedy that has relieved me. 
I am confident that if the water is taken with proper caution, viz., one- 
half tumbler full three or four times a day, increased after several days 
to a full tumbler, a permanent cure of this distressing disease (dropsy) 
will be or can be effected. 
I have such confidence in the great curative properties of these waters, 
that I have recommended them to several friends, who have ordered them. 
Under God’s mercy they have been the means of saving my life on two 
occasions. I am, sir, yours most respectfully, 
S. B. BECKWITH. CERTIFICATES. 
Until recently no effort has been made to procure or preserve any rec- 
ord of the many wonderful cures that have unquestionably been effected 
by these remarkable waters. The present proprietors have rescued a few 
certificates that had been tendered to their predecessors, and add a few 
testimonials out of a large number of cures that have been wrought dur- 
ing their sojourn at the Springs. All these they know to be authentic ; 
but they probably do not embrace one case in twenty, or one in fifty, of 
cure or benefit derived from the water. And, as a general thing, the 
whole class of female complaints must be passed over, or taken upon the 
verbal testimony of the physician and friends. 
SCROFULA. 
This is to certify that in the month of March, 1835, 1 was distressed with 
pain in one of my legs, which in a short time spread to my other leg, arms, 
and muscles of my neck. During the month of May following, inflamed 
tumors appeared on my head and collar-bone, which were pronounced 
scrofula by an experienced and skillful physician. Subsequently tumors 
appeared on my right arm and left shoulder, which all ulcerated. By this 
time my general health became exceedingly deranged. I was prostrated, 
having little or no appetite, and sometimes suffered great pain. The 
tumors and uieers continued to spread over the surface of my head. In 
this situation, after trial of various medicines, I was advised to try the 
mineral waters of Virginia. I first went to the White Sulphur, and used 
the waters freely for eight days; thence to the Hot Springs, and thence to 
the Alum Springs, in Rockbridge County, where I arrived in August, 1838, 
and commenced the use of the water by drinking, gradually increasing 
to about twenty glasses, and bathing the parts affected three times per 
diem. Here I remained three weeks, and went to the Warm Springs, 
and after remaining there about nine days returned to the Alum Springs, 
where I remained six days more, making in all four weeks’ constant use 
of the water. At this period I found my general health much improved, 
my appetite decidedly better, and the ulcers manifestly in a healing con- 
dition. On leaving these Springs, I carried with me a box of Alum Mass, 
which, on my return home, I continued to use in a solution with common 
water, by drinking and bathing. Under Di vine blessing, by the month of 
January following, I found myself entirely recovered from this sad dis- 
ease. 
The Certificate of the Rev. N. B. Scriven, S. U. 
N. B. SCRIVEN, S. C. 
DYSPEPSIA-CHRONIC PULMONARY DISEASE-ULCERATED 
SORE THROAT. 
Statement by Dr. Evans, of Amelia. 
Mr. A. Miller—Dear Sir:—lt affords me much pleasure to accede to 
your request that I should give a written statement of my opinion in re- 
gard to the influence which the Rockbridge Alum Water had upon your 
system some years since. 
Paineville, Amelia Co., Fa. 28 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
The aggravated dyspepsia which had well-nigh brought you to your grave, 
was so far removed in three weeks that you had since then only required 
a moderate degree of caution in diet to Insure a very good share of active 
health. The chronic pulmonary disease, which is hereditary in your sys- 
tem, was very threatening at the time of your visit to the Alum Springs. 
A marked improvement occurred at once, and no severe attack has hap- 
pened since. 1 have observed that for the last three years you have at- 
tended to active employments with all the appearances of good health. 
Allow me also to mention the case of a young lady afflicted with a 
chronic inflammation of the throat, attended with deep ulcerations. The 
skill of our best physicians failed to afford her any relief; but a short 
visit of a few weeks to this watering-place relieved her entirely and perma- 
nently. I have this statement from the lady herself, and she is now in 
excellent health. The disease was cured years ago. 
Very truly your friend, 
M. F. T. EVANS. 
For two years I have been a sufferer from Chronic Diarrhoea, the best 
physicians attending me, but affording only occasional and temporary 
relief. I have suffered a complication of disease, which had well-nigh 
brought me to the grave,—some of my ailments being such as are peculiar 
to females, others common to our nature. Some of our worst symptoms 
of the latter class are accurately described in the certificate of James B. 
Ellett, Esq., of King William, Va. In addition to all these, and the result 
of them, my whole nervous system was a wreck, so that life was a'burden 
to me. My friends finally advised that possioly the Rockbridge Alum 
Springs might afford me some relief; if they could not, my case was hope- 
less. I resolved to try them, contrary to the advice of my physician, who 
thought me quite too weak to attempt the journey. With great difficulty 
I reached the Springs the first week in July, 1855, but for nearly three 
weeks was unable to use the waters; at the end of which time I com- 
menced their use in small quantities, gradually increasing the same. My 
symptoms began at once to improve, and during the remainder of that 
month, and throughout the month of August, my ailments, one after 
another, gave way, so that, before ]• aving the Springs, I walked with ease 
over the surrounding hiiis, and by the —ih of September I was enabled to 
leave for home, restored to such a comfortable degree of health as 1 had 
not enjoyed for years past. 
I must ever feel devoutly grateful to the Author and Giver of every 
good gift, for guiding my steps to that remarkable fountain, which has 
so far healed my bodily ills, and for giving me strength to reach it. Nor 
can I forbear to express my thanks to the proprietor, and all the inmates 
of his household, for their unceasing kindness and attention to my wants. 
In the midst of all the bustle of a crowded “ season,” they ceased not in 
their care for me. 
MRS. E. S. RYALS. 
Complicated case of Mrs. ByaU, of Raleigh, A. C. 
Raleigh, N. G. 
Extracts from, two letters from Mr. Bradshaw, Indiana. 
SCROFULA. 
Knxtstown, January 15,1840. 
Gesti/emkn I would have written to you long since, had I been clear 
of the scrofula; but the affection in my nose had not disappeared, and I 
was still waiting in hopes that it would give way; but since the winter set 
In hard, I feel the effects of the disease very sensibiy through my system. 
This, indeed, Is not to be wondered at, when we reflect for a moment that 
the disease was so deeply grounded in my system, and of thirteen years’ 
standing, and that too, from my youth ; and that I was prostrate almost 
to the last stage of life. lam almost made to wonder that lam as free 
from it as I am. I have no doubt, if it was in my power to spend another 
summer at the Alum Springs, that it might, in the hands of God, be the 
means of restoring my health entirely. I have received more benefit 
from the use of the Rockbridge Alum Water the few weeks that I used 
it than I have done in thirteen years before from the most skillful physi- 
cians. I am as well satisfied that the Rockbridge Alum Springs would 
cure the scrofula as if I were now cured. BOCKBEirxJB ALUM SPRTJTOS. 
My nose is yet a little sore; and that is the only part that has been 
affected since I left the Springs. I have not suffered much inconvenience 
from it this winter. I attribute my present state of health, through the 
mercy of God, to the use of the Alum Waters. 
Yours, most respectfully, 
J. V. BRADSHAW. 
March 4,1840. 
CHRONIC LIVER-DISEASE. 
Gentlemen: Having for several seasons visited your justly celebrated 
Springs, and having uniformly derived much advantage from the use of 
the water, I cheerfully add my testimony to its virtues. My disease is 
chronic liver-affection, accompanied with cough and dyspepsia. The 
water uniformly appeals to the liver, with great action on the bowels; 
improves the appetite and digestion, and produces a general tonic effect 
on the whole system. I feel well satisfied that lam indebted, to a large 
extent, to the virtue of the Alum Springs for a considerable portion of 
the health and comfort I have enjoyed since I tried its efficacy. 
May 35, 1839. A. D. METCALF. 
From the Rev. A. T). Metcalf, of Rockbridge, near Lexington, Va. 
The Certificate of the Rev. Henry Ruffner, D. D., President of Washington 
• ' ' College. 
T have been requested to certify ray experience of the salutary effects 
of the Rockbridge Alum Spring water. T have repeatedly used it, and be- 
sides the good effects upon my general health, I found it peculiarly effica- 
cious in dispelling cutaneous eruptions and promoting a healthy action on 
the skin.. No other medicine that I ever used had so remarkable virtue 
in this respect. 
Lexington, Va , May 24,1839. HEN RY RTJ FFN EE. 
CHRONIC DIARRHCBA. 
Oregon Hill, August 1,1850. 
Gentlemen ; Having used and witnessed the effects of the Rockbridge 
Alum Spring water on different persons, I feel much pleasure in stating 
the high opinion entertained of its great medical value 
I can truly say that I have suffered more than I thought I could bear. 
Having been afflicted for four or five years with the worst bowel-com- 
plaint, I procured the best medical advice, and found nothing to relieve 
me. After being prostrated by disease for that length of time, I com- 
menced using the Alum Spring water, and in the course of a few weeks I 
found a decided change for the better. At this time (now three months 
since I commenced the use of the water), I feel restored to health, my 
appetite is good, and ray strength regained. Indeed, I feel like another 
man. 
I can safely recommend the water to others, and have done so in several 
cases. I wish you ail the success imaginable. 
You arc at liberty to make what use you think proper of this letter. 
But my changed condition and appearance is the best testimonial I could 
bring to those who have known of ray sickness during the last four years. 
Accept, sirs, assurances of my personal esteem, 
And believe me, &c., &c., 
T. J. BETHEL. 
DYSPEPSIA. 
This is to certify that my daughter Jane had been complaining for about 
two years with the dyspepsia, and she attended the Rockbridge Alum 
Springs for a few weeks for two seasons, and has been in good heal th ever 
since—and that has been about eight years since, and she is in better 
health than she ever was, 
March 31, 1840. JAMBS B. McCLTJNG. 
The Certificate of James Me Clung, Rockbridge Co unty, Virginia. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
SCROFULA. 
The Certificate of Copt. J. TJ. Dickinson, of Millboro' Springs. 
This is to certify that my wife has been afflicted several years with 
Scrofula, and has tried different physicians, and made use of a great deal 
of medicine, without effect. She at length resorted to the Rockbridge 
Alum Springs, and used the water freely, both by drinking and bathing, 
which has almost restored her. I would, therefore, cheerfully recom- 
mend the use of the water to all suffering with scrofulous diseases. 
Millboro’ Springs, March 26, 1840. JOHN U. DICKINSON. 
This is to certify that my wife, Mary Wilson, was attacked with Scrofula 
about four years ago. Her neck was very much swollen and ulcerated 
for some eight months, during which time she received the attention of 
several physicians without any benefit, and was at last pronounced incur- 
able. Hearing of the virtue of the Rockbridge Alum Water, and my 
wife being unable to goto the Springs herself, I procured some of the 
mass from which the pills are made, and she used the solution of this in 
water, regularly, three glasses, three times a day, for two weeks, when 
she seemed perfectly restored, and used but little afterwards. Since that 
time there has been no appearance whatever of the existence or the re- 
turn of the disease. JOHN W. WILSON. 
Bedford Co., August 23,1844. 
CANCROID ULCERATION OF THE NOSE. 
Gentlemen : I received by the last mail yours of the 7th inst., and it 
affords ms pleasure to contribute in any way to your pleasure and profit. 
I had for several years a small scab on the end of my nose that frequently 
would come off, leaving a very small speck that exhibited the appearance 
of disease. I went to Richmond in November, 1842; the weather was very 
cold, and I returned home in the cars and stage very sick with a cold, and 
my nose became very much diseased and somewhat swollen from con- 
stant blowing. I was very unwell indeed; confined to my bed. and much 
depressed. My friends prevailed upon me to permit the application of 
caustic to the small sore on the end of my nose. I consented that it 
should be applied only to the sore; but instead of confining it to the sore 
they covered the whole of ray nose with the caustic plaster, which re- 
mained some twenty hours, and burned all the skin off, and I have no 
doubt produced the disease that caused me so much affliction and the loss 
of the cartilaginous part of my nose, it falling out of the fleshy part. 
Part slipped off. and the balance turned out, and exhibited the appear- 
ance as of the edge of a button-hole. I went to Philadelphia and New 
York, and consulted many of the most eminent physicians in both cities, 
and I formed an opinion from their expressions and appearance, that they 
all believed it would gradually progress until it destroyed my life. The 
physicians of Philadelphia, upon consultation, advised me to use freely Zitt- 
man’s Decoction. I bought a large quantity of the materials for making 
and directions for using it, and returned home and used it freely for sev- 
eral months with very little if any be nefit. Dr. Mott, of New York, whose 
sympathy and kindness I gratefully ackr.OAvledge but not more than my 
Philadelphia medical friends, seemed to feel deeply for me, and rendered 
me every attention without receiving any compensation, except that 
which arises from kind acts to an afflicted fellow-being. 
I went to the Alum Springs and used the water bountifully; drank as 
much as I could, aiKj, bathed the diseased part by dipping it in some of 
the water from the middle spring very often during the day. After about 
ten days the place became apparently worse, and I should have left in de- 
spair had it not been for the kind assurances of Mrs. Taylor, of Norfolk, 
and her uncle, Mr. Ayres, who assured me if the use of the water did any 
good it would have the effect I described. In a few days the thickened 
edges began to disappear, and the sore to assume a healthy appearance. 
I brought some of the pills and extract of the water and some of the 
u mass ” home with me, and pontinped the use of them about three weeks, ROCKBRIDGE ARUM SPRINGS. 
31 
and then stopped about six weeks, ijtitil the next summer, when I re- 
turned to the Springs and used the water as before, and returned satisfied 
that the Alum Water had saved my life, and stopped, and, I hope, cured, 
a disease from which I anticipated a most loathsome and painful death. 
I am perfectly satisfied that the waters are unequaled by any in the 
world for ulcers, and especially those of a scrofulous nature. I could, if 
it were necessary, relate the good effects of the use of the water and pills 
made out of the extract of the water in a variety of cases that came under 
my treatment and notice.- There is a little negro here who labored under 
scrofulous ophthalmia, who was cured by taking the pills; and many 
other cases might be enumerated. If circumstances will permit, I hope 
to spend a few weeks under your hospitable roof and use the water again 
this summer. It would afford me great pleasure to meet again, when in 
better health, with my kind friends with whom I associated at the Alum 
Springs. 
I remain, very sincerely, yours, &c. J. A. MIBANB, M. D. 
You should during the winter make pills, as thousands of them could 
be sold. 
Greensboro', N. (7., Feb. 16,1851. 
THE WORST CASE OP SCROFULA. 
Gentlemen At your request I will give you a description of my case, 
and the effects of the Alum Water on me. 
I had been laboring under a scrofulous ulceration of the throat, mouth, 
nose and face for several years; sometimes the ulcerations would cease 
a year or more, and 1 would seem apparently well, when the ulceration 
would commence again rapidly. I continued in that situation. Finally 
I became so alarmingly diseased that I despaired of ever being restored 
to health; and, as a last resort, my friends urged me to try the Alum 
Springs. I accordingly determined to give them a trial, but with little 
hope of being benefited by their use. 
I visited them in June, 1847, and continued there seven weeks. When I 
first began to use the water, I imagined myself better, but in a day or so my 
sufferings greatly increased, the ulcerations enlarged and discharged more 
freely, and I declined rapidly; but I determined to persevere, as I had 
been told that if the water would benefit me any it would have that effect. 
I felt encouraged, and continued using it, although I grew worse every 
day. I bathed the ulcers several times a day in the strongest water, and 
drank water from all of the springs occasionally, but used out the spring 
under the rock mostly. I drank ten or a dozen glasses every day, and 
some days more when I could bear it. It nauseated my stomach very 
much and caused me to vomit frequently. After drinking the water 
three weeks, I was so much enfeebled, and suffered so much, I was ad- 
vised to discontinue the water a short time. I drank none for four days; 
and I improved rapidly in that short time, and got so much better that I 
could walk about, my room, and went out once or twice. I commenced 
using the water again, and it sickened me so much I concluded I would 
leave and go home. After using it about ten days longer, I accordingly 
left for home: and so soon as I left I began to improve again, and con- 
tinued to improve throughout the fall, winter and spring. My general 
health was pretty well established, but the ulceration continued to some 
extent: and I again visited the Springs in July and August, 1848. The 
water had about the same effect on me as in the preceding year, but my 
system was braced up by its former use, and it did not prostrate me as it 
did before I remained about six weeks, and drank from twelve to fifteen 
glasses per day. I usually drank three or four glasses before breakfast, 
and it frequently caused vomiting; but I considered that an advantage, 
as it helped to cleanse the stomach; and sometimes I would throw up bile 
and other filth. I seldom remained sick at the stomach more than ten or 
fifteen minutes, and I would drink again before I ate anything. My 
appetite was very poor most of Ihe time; but I think it was fortunate for 
me, as it enabled me to drink more water. So soon as 1 left I commenced 
improving, and the ulceration ceased shortly after I returned home, and 
I have had no symptoms of disease since. I again visited the Springs in 
1849. This time the water did not affect me near so sensibly as at other 
times, owing, no doubt, to my good health brought on by its former use. 
I remained about sixteen days, and have ever since enjoyed most excel- 
lent health. I attribute my recovery to the Alum Springs. I had em- floyed eminent physicians, and used the most approved patent medicines, 
lost half of my upper jaw-bone, my entire nose, and various small bones 
of my face ; also a large portion of my palate bone. 
Should any person similarly affected as myself desire any information 
respecting- my case, you can give them my address, and I will take great 
pleasure in giving them any information in my power. You have my per- 
mission to use this statement as you think proper. 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
Yanceyville, N. C., Feb. 17,1851. 
Most respectfully yours, ANNE B. YANCEY. 
ACUTE PAINS—WITH ULCERATION OF THE SKIN. 
Gentlemen :—I feel highly gratified at the opportunity afforded me of 
informing you of the great benefit I derived from the use of the Rock- 
bridge Alum Water. 
My disease made its appearance about two years before I visited the 
Springs, during which time my sufferings were most intense. Various 
were the remedies I tried, hut none seemed to have any effect in arrest- 
ing the disease. Finally I was induced to try the Rockbridge Alum 
Springs, i was at that time suffering severe pain in my limbs, together 
with several large ulcers on my face, where the disease first made its 
appearance. On reaching the Springs I drank from ten to twelve glasses 
of water during the day, and bathed my face twice in that time. The 
water at first appeared to be unfavorable to my disease, as my face be- 
came more ulcerated and inflamed for about a fortnight, after which time 
I began to Improve quite rapidly during my stay. My face is now entirely 
healed, though I still occasionally have some pain in my limbs. The use 
of the Rockbridge Alum Water afforded me more benefit than any thing 
I have ever tried; and it is to this that I owe ray almost miraculous cure. 
Respectfully, A. H. MOSS, 
Patton's Hill, April 3t>, 1851. 
BRONCHITIS. 
Gentlemen For the benefit of the afflicted, I take pleasure in thus 
relating what I have seen in others, and experienced in my own ease, of 
the very remarkable efficacy of the Rockbridge Alum Water. Some four 
or five years ago I was greatly afflicted with the bronchitis, together with 
an inflamed chronic condition of the glands of the throat. At the same 
time my liver and stomach were much disordered. I found the usual 
remedies for these diseases entirely inefficacious in ray case, I com- 
menced the use of the Aium Water and soon found partial relief; and by 
continuing its use 1 have been almost entirely cured of the above dis- 
eases. Indeed, under the blessing of Providence, I attribute my present 
permanently improved state of health to the use of the Rockbridge Alum 
Water. 
I have attended this Spring every summer for the last five or six years, 
and have during that time witnessed many instances In which it has 
cured cases of liver complaint, dyspepsia, cancer, bronchitis, sore throat, 
together with scrofula and cutaneous affections; many of which have 
been pronounced by physicians incurabie. 1 make no hesitation in saying 
that it is by far the most valuable water in this country; it reaches many 
diseases that are otherwise incurable. For female diseases it has been 
found invaluable. It loses none of its virtue by transportation. I have 
used a barrel purchased of you, and have found it just as efficacious as 
when used at tne Springs 
Yours, respectfully, CORNELIUS TYREE. 
Certificate from the Rev. Coi'nelius Tyree. 
I’owhaian Co, July 6,1853, ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
33 
LIVER-DISEASES, WHETHER TORPID AND INDURATED, 
OR TOO ACTIVE. 
From Major Yancey, of Buckingham. 
Buckingham, Feb. 22d, 1854. 
Gentlemen :—Your favor, requesting my opinion of the curative prop- 
erties of the Rockbridge Alum Springs, is received. If there is any cor- 
rect or reliable analysis of these waters, it is unknown to me: but having 
been a visitor of your Springs for the last five years, has afforded me the 
opportunity of seeing a large number of persons with a great variety of 
disease, of which I have knowledge of the beneficial action of your 
waters. That they have cured scrofula, there is no doubt; for several 
such cures are within my own knowledge. These waters are famous for 
eruptions of the skin. Their action upon the liver is wonderful, whether 
in an indurated or torpid state, or too active in its secretions. I myself 
am witness, personally, as to the latter; and, as to the former, of torpid 
liver, I know of its curing Mr. Wilson, of Louisiana, who said his spleen 
and liver were.dry and hard as a plank; the water invited secretions, and 
he went away cured. I have seen boys come here on crutches from 
injuries in the joints, running races in three or four weeks during my 
stay. I am free to say, I have no recollection of any diseased subject, 
whose acquaintance I formed, that did not report a beneficial action of 
the waters, except the cancerous and the consumptive. Your Springs 
have worked their own merited reputation far and near, in spite of the 
want of accommodation; and those who did obtain accommodation found 
it very rough. I have seen visitors, perhaps over one hundred, turned 
away .for want of room during my stay each season. Provide ample 
accommodations, and you will have visitors to fill all your rooms. I 
ascribe much credit to you for the extensive improvements made in so 
short a time after you became possessed of the property. The comple- 
tion of the Central Railroad to Staunton or beyond, will give greatly 
increased facility to travel, and the Packet Boats, for certainty and safety 
of passage, together with the grandeur of the mountain scenery above 
Lynchburg, will induce many to take that route. 
Very respectfully, your most obedient, 
To Messrs. Frazier and Randolph, Rockbridge Alum Springs. 
CHARLES YANCEY. 
ASTHMA WITH DYSPEPSIA. 
This will certify that for ten years past I have been subject to Asthma, 
with more or less of Dyspepsia, and for six or eight months before visiting 
these Springs was a constant sufferer, having no appetite and hardly any 
ability to digest food. After a few days’ use ox the Rockbridge water, at 
the Springs, my appetite began to return. In two weeks’ time the Asthma 
disappeared, and has never troubled me since; and before I left the 
Springs my digestive organs seemed completely restored, so that I could 
without inconvenience eat heartily and with relish of any wholesome food. 
My visit was in the summer of 1855. 
W. M. MALLORY. 
Cure of a most inveterate case of Scrofula. 
Freeport, Illinois, October 20 th, 1857. 
Mr. Wm. FRAZiER—Dear Sir:—The remarkable cure which I have ex- 
perienced at your Springs, of a most inveterate case of Scrofula, impels 
me to communicate it for the benefit and encouragement of others. From 
boyhood I had been a victim of the disease, and after many years of suf- 
fering I was compelled about two years since to undergo amputation of 
my left foot and leg. This did not by any means cure or eradicate tho 
disease from my system. It still festered there and prevented the healing 
of the amputated limb. 34 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
It Is now just a year aao that I arrived at the Springs in a most prostrate 
condition of my general health, emaciated, weak, and hardly able to use 
my crutch. 
After only a few weeks’ use of the water, I began to be sensible of a 
charge going on in my system, and at once resolved to give it a full and 
fair trial. The action of the water upon the various secretions soon 
began to have the effect of throwing out the disease upon the surface in 
the form of unsightly blotches, which after a time would dry up and scale 
off. Then others would appear, discharge, and dry off or disappear in 
like manner.. This process continued throughout the winter. Meanwhile 
my strength had greatly increased, my appetite was good, and by the re- 
turn of spring, not only had I improved in flesh, but a new skin seemed 
to have-formed. Before the beginning of summer and the regular water- 
ing-season, I had so grown in flesh that I could not possibly have worn the 
clothes in which I came to the Springs. '1 he sore at the point of amputa- 
tion had, by this time, gradually but completely healed. Doubtless I 
might now have returned home. But anxious at once to confirm and 
perfect the cure, as also to witness and enjoy the social attractions of 
“ the muon ” at this famous fountain of health, I determined to make out 
my full year by remaining till October. I did so, and shall never regret 
it It afforded me an opportunhy of seeing an assembly of the most 
agreeable and cultivated persons from all parss of the Union, hut chiefly 
from the South, as well as of witnessing the extraordinary powers of the 
water over disease in many of its worst forms. 
Entire strangers to the Kockbridge Alum Waters might think me a little 
enthus'astic when I declare my conviction that as a remedial agent they 
are without a known rival, but one year’s experience in my own person, 
and a summer’s observation of a great variety of cures wrought by them, 
have fastened that conviction firmly in my mind. 
It only remains that I thank you and your estimable lady tor your 
uniform kindness, as also Mr. Sale and your other assistants for their at- 
tention and politeness, throughout my long sojourn at your pleasant 
home. Wishing you and them every prosperity and happiness, I remain 
Yours truly, 
0. M. BREWSTER. 
Oxford, N. C., January 28th, 1858. 
Dear Sir I write to request that you will send me two boxes of the 
Rockbridge Alum Water. 1 want It for my daughter. You will be sur- 
prised, as you will, I know, be gratified, to learn that her health and con- 
stitution have been almost entirely resuscitated, and, as we are well 
satisfied, by the efficacy of the Kockbridge Alum Water alone, which she 
has constantly used, to the exclusion of all other waters, since our visit to 
the Springs last summer. 
I regard her case as the most remarkable one I have known, or have 
seen reported, of the cures that have been effected by these waters; and 
I have not the least doubt but it will be so considered by all who saw her 
on the occasion of her visit to the Springs in the summer of 1857, not ex- 
cepting the intelligent physician, Dr. Graham, who attended her. 
I send directly to you, in order that I may be sure to get the water in 
olass, and not in wood. The last I got was from one of your agents, who 
happened to he entirely out of the boxes of bottled water; and I bad to 
take it in a half-barrel. 
Very sincerely, your friend, 
JOHN C. TAYLOR. 
To Wm. Frazier, Esq, 
DYSPEPSIA. 
Mr. J. A. Grigg, of Amelia, County, Va., was cured in 1859, of the worst 
and most obdurate case of Dyspepsia I have ever known. He intended 
and promised me to write out a statement or history of it, and remarked 
that it would hardly be possible to exaggerate either the inveteracy of 
the malady, the extent of his suffering, or the completeness of his cure ; 
which last indeed was obvious enough to the beholder. 
WM. FRAZIER. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
SCROFULA OF THE EYES, WITH LOSS OF SIGHT. 
Certificate from W. W. Mallory, Esq., of Hanover, Va. 
Messrs. Frazier & Randolph 
Junction, Hanover Co., Feb. 21th, 1851. 
Gentlemen I intended long since to have written you In regard to my 
trip to the Rockbridge Alum Springs, last summer, with my little daugh- 
ter. She was afflicted with a scrofulous disease of the face and eyes, and 
had been attended by several eminent physicians, but derived no benefit 
from their constant attention and acknowledged skill. It was at length 
suggested to me by one of the physicians, and many of my friends, to 
take her to the Rockbridge Alum Springs. 
When I left home on the 10th of July last, she was emaciated to a mere 
skeleton, as it were,—had not opened her eyes for five or six weeks past; 
aad 1 entertained great fears she would never be able to reach your place. 
However, she stood the journey, and v- ry soon after her arrival com- 
menced the use of the water both as a drink and local bath. 
Pressing engagements of business only allowed me to remain with ray 
wife and child six days; but before leaving for home I had the inexpressi- 
ble gratification of seeing my little daughter running about the lawn with 
her eyes open, which had not been the ca-e for months before. 
My wife kept her there about one month longer, when she returned 
home greatly improved in her general health, and, though once blind, as 
1 greatly feared, now having her eyes open and her sight fully restored, 
though the inflammation about her face had not entirely subsided. 
Soon after this, a relative stopping at my house on his way to the 
Springs insisted on taking the child back. We gave our consent, and they 
proceeded to the Rockbridge Alum, but the great increase in the crowd 
of visitors there compelled them to go on to Bath Alum, where they 
remained two or three weeks, returned to the Rockbridge Alum, where they 
spent three weeks more, and then left for home. And when they came I 
found her eyes still greatly better, and a child only a few months before 
having no flesh, now hearty and weighing nearly double what she did the 
day she first left home. 
Her eyes continue as they were when she left the Springs, though occa- 
sionally slight inflammation makes its appearance about the face. I shall 
take her to your Springs again next summer, and have not the smallest 
doubt, If she only derives half the benefit she did last season, she will be 
entirely restored. I have written this hastily, and would say I desire you 
not to use It publicly if I did not consider it my duly to let the afflicted 
with like disease know that my little child, once blind, is now seeing and 
well. 
Please accept the thanks of myself and wife for the kind attentions she 
received during my absence, when I was compelled to put her under the 
care of your lady and most accommodating agents. 
Yours, very respectfully, W. \Y. MALLORY. 
DYSPEPSIA. 
Certificate of Eobert Bolling, of Petersburg, Va. 
Alum Springs, Va., Sept., 15th, 1853. 
I have for several years been in feeble health, and have for the" last 
twelve months suffered greatly with dyspepsia; consulted the most skill- 
ful physicians in my part of the country, whose remedies gave only 
momentary relief. I determined to repair at once to the Alum Springs; 
left home on the 34th of August, and arrived there on the 26th, with lul- 
ness and tightness about the chest, pain in the head and eyes, and flushed 
face. When I commenced the use of the water, I determined to live 
abstemiously, in order to satisfy myself of its effects, and in four or five 
days felt great relief. I have now continued the use of the waters for 
nearly three weeks, and think I can return home in safety, with my 
health greatly improved. And let me say to the public, and dyspeptics 
particularly, instead of visiting the Sulphur Springs, come at once to the 
Alum, breathe the salubrious atmosphere, drink the healing waters, and 
be restored to better health. 
JtiUBT. BOLLING, ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
CHRONIC DIARRHOEA—DISEASE OF KIDNEYS-COUGH. 
The case of James B. Ellett, Esq., King William Go., Va. 
About four years since, I was attacked with Chronic Diarrhoea ; my dis- 
charges amounting to eight or ten daily, of a thin, watery, and often 
raucous character. I hud a very troublesome cough, attended with con- 
stant thirst and dry tongue. My expectoration was very considerable. 
In addition to the diarrhoea, I had labored for many years under disease 
of my kidneys. 
In this condition I was attacked with pneumonia In the winter of 1853, 
from which, after many weeks, I recovered, contrary to the expectation 
of my physicians. But it left me perfectly prostrated with my old mala- 
dies.—the diarrhoea and the affection of my kidneys. When I reached the 
Rockbridge Alum Springs—23d July, 1853—1 could not stand or walk 
without being supported. I do not think I weighed one hundred pounds; 
had no appetite; always eight or ten discharges daily, of a mucous, watery 
character, and my cough most annoying. I had frequent spells of vomit- 
ing from my stomach, and could sleep but little. My whole condition was 
as bad as it well could be. When I left home, my friends never expected 
to see me return alive; and when I got to the Springs, no one who saw me 
or knew of my case believed it possible that I could long survive. 
I commenced the use of the water in very small quantities, which, for the 
first few days, I sometimes threw up. Shortly, however, I found my 
strength and appetite improving, and the operations from my bowels less 
frequent and of a more healthy character. My liver, which had been in 
a most torpid state for a long time, began to act; my cough and expec- 
toration to improve, as also the disease of my kidneys. 
At the expiration of two weeks or a little unwards, I could and did 
walk a mile and a half. My health and whole' condition continued to 
improve. I did not take, but pertinaciously refused to take, any other 
remedy except the Alum Water, and under its use I regained my strength 
and flesh; my torpid liver and chronic diarrhoea and cough and expec- 
toration all left me entirely. It is now little over eleven months since I 
left the Springs. I have remained entirely free from the diarrhoea, cough 
and disease of kidneys ever since, and do know that I owe it all, under a 
kind Providence, to the Rockbridge Alum Springs. It may be well to add 
that I am in my sixty-sixth year. JAMES B. ELLETT, 
Of King William County, Ya. 
CHRONIC DIARRHCEA. 
From John S, Timberldke, Esq. 
Dear Sib 
I hope, and doubt not, your Springs have maintained their high reputa- 
tion, and made an unusually good “ season.” I came to the Alum Springs 
broken down and debilitated from Chronic Diarrhoea, but now rejoice at 
restored health. Wishing you every success, 
I am yours, sincerely, JNO. S. TIMBERLAKE. 
Oct. 13,1854. 
CHRONIC DIARRHCEA.—Mrs. Tatem's case. 
My wife, Mary F. Tatem, was attacked in June, 1853, with Chronic Diar' 
rhcea, which, in spile of the skill of the best physicians, had brought her 
to the verge of the grave. She was almost a living skeleton, and her 
operations from ten to twelve dally, of the most unhealthy condition, 
bloody and frequently mucous, always entirely free from bile, and of 
yeasty appearance. 
In the summer of 1854 I took her to the Rockbridge Alum Springs, with 
the vain hope of its being of some service to her; often fearing she would 
not live to reach her journey’s end. A few days after she arrived at the 
Springs, her operations diminished in frequency, and began to assume a 
healthy complexion; she steadily Improved in all respects; the diseased 
condition of her bowels, in less than three weeks, had subsided, and her 
emaciation and debility almost gone. Her tongue, which had presented a 
very red, raw appearance, has now assumed a natural, healthy condition, BOCKBRXDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
I consider it one of the very worst cases of the disease, and feel that 
her recovery is attributable entirely to the use of the Rockbridge Alum 
Water. 
This statement I make out of a feeling of gratitude, as •well as of hope 
that it may be of service to others afflicted in the same way. 
33. A. TATEM. 
Tallahatchie County, Miss. 
SPINAL DISEASE, WITH NERVOUS PROSTRATION. 
This is to certify that I was taken with typhoid fever about five years 
ago, which left me with a spinal disease, loss of muscular energy, and 
general debility; and, in addition to the above diseases, I was taken with 
nocturnal emissions, accompanied with palpitation of the heart. After 
trying the most celebrated physicians in my vicinity without benefit, I 
then commenced using patent medicines; but nothing seemed to touch 
my disease. I determined, as the only alternative, to visit the Springs. 
I arrived at the Rock Alum the 21st of June, so feeble and languid that I 
did not choose a room, but entered my name on the register and lay down 
immediately on a settee which was in the room, until I could command 
strength to go up to my room, which was chosen for me by a gentleman 
who came on from Lexington with me. When I reached there I was in a 
state of great debility, with a deplorable condition of my nervous system. 
I suffered from an almost continual apprehension of evil, and from loss 
of sleep; my appetite was precarious, and all my energies, physical and 
mental, were impaired; nocturnal emissions, which increased my suffer- 
ing and destroyed my strength, were of very frequent occurrence. After 
remaining at the Springs two ■weeks, 1 began to improve in strength and 
flesh. My appetite being restored, all my nervous symptoms began to 
subside; buoyancy and elasticity of spirits, to which I had long been a 
stranger, took the place of gloom and despondency; the nocturnal emis- 
sions have ceased: and I fee! that my health is so tar restored in all 
respects as to justify the hope that I am free from the terrible disease 
from which I have so long suffered, and that it is attributable to the 
Rockbridge Alum Water. 
Goochland, July 25, 1851. J. C. MARTIN. 
Mr. J. C. Martin’s case. 
CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 
Mr. Frazier—Dear Sir Please forward me another box of the Alum 
Water immediately on receipt of this—as it is the only remedy of the 
many I have tried which has ever afforded me any real benefit or lasting 
relief. Yours truly, THOS. BRUCE. 
Halifax, Va., January 15, 1858. 
Leaksville, Rockingham Co., N. C., Jan. 2,1856, 
SCROFULA. 
Messrs. Frazier & Randolph —Dear Sirs: —Having derived great 
benefit from the use of the Rockbridge Alum Water, I cannot refrain 
from adding my testimony to its virtues. In January last I was severely 
attacked with ulcers about my face and body, which was pronounced to 
be Scrofula. I employed eminent physicians for a length of time, and 
used the most popular patent medicines; but all failed to afford any 
relief. After suffering for several months very severely, I was solicited 
to visit the Alum Springs. I reached the Rockbridge Alum on the 27th May, 
almost unable to walk, and with very little hope of ever recovering: but 
I had used the water only about ten days when the ulcers began to heal, 
and in the course of four weeks had entirely disappeared and my strength 
was entirely regained. I remained at the Springs until the 19th July, 
(scarcely eight weeksi, when I returned home, and have not since felt 
any symptoms of disease. Verv respectfully, yours, &c. 
WM, H, ROBERTSON, ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
''THE ALUM MASS OR POWDERS. 
The demand for these is steadily growing as the knowledge of 
their virtues extends. What is called the mass is nothing more nor 
less than the salts of the water obtained by evaporation in kettles. 
Of course, it is highly concentrated and powerful. Experience has 
demonstrated that it retains to a remarkable extent the medicinal 
qualities of the water, so as to serve as a substitute for the same in 
remote sections of the country, where the water itself cannot con- 
veniently be transported. Accordingly, we are in the habit of for- 
warding it, by mail, to orders all over the country. 
But the mass or powders are not a mere substitute for the water ; 
hey possess, in certain cam, advantages over the water itself; as in 
local applications, where a more concentrated wash is needed, or in 
certain delicate or diseased conditions of the stomach, where large 
draughts of water cannot be taken, the pill may serve a better pur- 
pose. But in such cases a physician should prescribe. These are 
exceptional cases, and the proprietors, who have no ambition to 
rank themselves as vendors of nostrums, frankly admit that for gen- 
eral use no preparation of the water can equal the limpid stream 
itself, as it flows from the mountain rock—nature’s own laboratory 
and great alembic. 
To reproduce the water from the mass, dissolve it in pure, soft 
water. A piece the size of a common pea, thoroughly dissolved, 
will make a tumbler of water as strong, perhaps stronger, than the 
spring water, or from 60 to 80 grains to the gallon. You must ex- 
pect to have a flat taste as compared with the lively, pleasant impres- 
sion of the water taken from the spring, or put up in glass bottles, 
well corked. But the medicinal properties largely remain in these 
salts- It is convenient to dissolve two or three gallons at a time in 
a demijohn. ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
Rev. Wm. B. Browne, of Paris, Ky., Principal of the Female 
Seminary, writes as follows; 
Paris, Ky., Jan. 33, 1860. 
* * * * * It is certainly desirable that those using the mass 
or powder should have some more definite guide in dissolving it so 
as to reproduce the water as nearly as possible like the original, 
than has been heretofore given in your pamphlet. My own practice 
has been to dissolve sixty (60) grains in a gallon of as pure rain- 
water as I could get; distilled water would be better. This I judge 
to be the proportion only from the result of the analysis given, and 
is probably not far from right. You can easily see, from a simple 
calculation, how much a pound would make,—as few persons have 
any idea how much of the water they buy in buying a pound of 
the powder or mass. 
Of the valuable properties of the water, whether in its original 
form or as reproduced from the mass, I have no hesitation in speak- 
ing. My first experience of its value was in my own case, in 1851, 
when I had been suffering for several years with indigestion, ac- 
companied with a constant tendency to chronic diarrhoea. The use 
of the water for a short time restored my system to a proper tone, 
and I have scarcely known since what dyspepsia is. For anything 
like chronic diarrhoea, I consider it invaluable, and have seen it 
tried in cases of dysentery or flux with complete success. In 1857 
one of my children, in teething, was afflicted by an obstinate purg- 
ing and vomiting, which completely baffled the physician, as nothing 
was retained on the stomach more than a few minutes, while its 
cries for water were constant and distressing. At this junction I 
suggested the Alum water, and by the consent of the physician it 
was tried, and with perfect success; the child recovered without a 
particle of other medicine, to the no small surprise of the doctor. 
Since then you may well suppose it has been a family medicine 
with us. 
I have recommended it to ladies who were great sufferers with 
what are called sick headaches, and they have told me they never 
found such relief from any other remedy. Some of my friends here 
have used it in scrofulous affections with the most gratifying re- 
sults. In short, I think I have reason to be, as I am, somewhat 
enthusiastic in regard to the remedial virtues of this medicine, pre- 
pared in Nature’s great laboratory. 
Anything in this hasty letter that you may think of any value in 
your pamphlet, you are at liberty to use. I believe in making 
widely known the virtues of the Rockbridge Alum water you will 
be doing a work of true benevolence, Truly yours, 
WM. B. BROWNE, 40 
rockbridge alum springs. 
Roseville, Chester District, S. C., Dec. 14, 1857. 
Mr. ¥m, Frazier—Dear Sir: I wish you to send me five dollars’ 
worth of the Rockbridgs Alum Mass immediately. What you sent 
me August last did wonders for me. My child, who had been re- 
duced to a perfect skeleton from diarrhoea, consequent upon Scrof- 
ula, is now in perfect health. 
I will state that I lost one of my children last year who was sim- 
ilary affected. I also gave it to my brother, who had long been a 
sufferer from Dyspepsia, which terminated in a very extensive inflam- 
mation and ulceration of the bowels. He was reduced from one 
hundred and sixty-five to one hundred and five pounds. He com- 
menced mending from the very first day that he took the Mass, and 
now weighs one hundred and fifty. His recovery is perfectly to 
the astonishment of all who saw him. I enclose ass bank-note. 
Yours respectfully, WM. J. STEVENSON. 
From Rev Luther L. Hill, of Alabama. 
Wm. Frazier, Esq.—Dear Sir: Through our mutual friend, Mr. 
M. Crary, the package of Rockbridge Alum Mass which you kindly 
sent me has been received. It is decidedly the most acceptable 
token of friendly regard ever bestowed upon me. You may judge 
of the estimate put upon it, when I assure you that not long since, 
wffile discussing with a friend the merits of the Rockbridge Alum 
Water and Mass, I stated to him that I had a fraction of a pound 
of the Mass left (having brought it with me from the Springs a 
year ago), and I regarded its use so indispensable to my health thati 
if I could not by any means replace it, five hundred dollars would not 
be entertained for a moment as a consideration for it. 
Montgomery, xVla., Oct. 8, 1855. 
I have the most unqualified confidence in the virtues of the water, 
and it affords me great pleasure to be able to subserve your interest 
in promoting that of suffering humanity by recommending the use 
of the water and of the Mass to my friends and acquaintances. 
Mr. T has received his package, and contemplates taking his 
wife to your Springs next season. 
I may add that I have been a sufferer for twelve years, during 
which time I have visited most of the leading watering-places in 
the United States, and it is hut just to say that I derived far more 
benefit from my sojourn at the Rockbridge Alum Springs, in one 
summer, than from all the others put together. 
I am, very respectfully, &c., 
LUTHER L. HILL' ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
41 
Extract of a Letter from Dr. Cartwright. 
I have long been in the habit of recommending 
New Orleans, June 2,1855. 
invalids to the Rockbridge Alum Springs, I think so highly of the 
water that I have imported it direct, and also have used the Alum 
powder or Mass, as it is caked (a sediment collected from boiling 
the water), with much benefit in my practice. 
SAMUEL A. CARTWRIGHT. 
[The residue of the above letter urges the proprietors to put up 
the water in bottles for transportation and use at a distance from the 
Springs. This, it will be perceived, is at length accomplished.] 
From the Rev. B. B. Boss, of Alabama. 
Tuskegee, Ala., Feb. 22, 1867. 
Messrs. Frazier & Randolph—Sirs: I need some of the Alum 
Mass or powder from your Springs. It has often saved viy life, has 
checked my bowels when all other astringents and all opiates have 
failed. For many years I have kept it by me. In the last three 
days it has done me signal service, checking the ravages of diarrhoea 
when nothing else would. I must have it, if you have it or can 
make it. 
Mr. Wm. Frazier:—Having been cured of an aggravated case 
of Chronic Dysentery by the use of your Rockbridge waters last 
fall, I think it my duty to state the fact, not so much for your ad- 
vantage as for the benefit of others, who are now suffering as I did 
for a long time. 
Pike County, Mo , February, 1857. 
Being on a visit last year to my friends and relatives in my native 
county of Albemarle, they persuaded me to visit your Springs and 
try whether I might not find some relief from them. I did so, and 
the waters cured me. But, without dictating to others, I will say 
that, in ray case (and I believe in cases similar to mine), small doses 
of the water is not the thing. A free use of it stirred up and passed 
off the bile, gave to the liver and all my intestinal organs a healthy 
action, and in a few weeks restored me to comfortable health and 
strength. 42 
How many thousands of persons there are in this my adopted 
State, and in this great basin of the Mississippi Yalley, who, if they 
could reach that fountain of yours, or could have its waters brought 
to them, or if they knew anything at all about the Springs, would, 
in all human probability, regain their health and strength! 
I will only add, that a peculiar excellence of your water is that, 
unlike most mineral waters, it is used as advantageously in the 
spring ahd fall (and I am told in the winter also) as in midsummer. 
ROCKBRIDGE ALUM SPRINGS. 
Yours, very respectfully, 
JOHN C. CARTER. 
Millboro’ Springs, Ya., Jan. 30,1860. 
Mr. Wm. Frazier—Dear Sir: At your request I cheerfully state 
that my certificate (given to the late Mr. Campbell, your predeces- 
sor at the Alum Springs, bearing date March 36, 1840, and found 
on page 30), should now receive the following amendment, namely, 
that the improvement, which I then feared might be only tempo • 
rary, has been permanent, and the cure radical and thorough; so 
that she has now for nearly twenty years past enjoyed excellent 
and vigorous health, her constitution seeming to have been entirely 
renovated; and yet, when I took her to those healing waters, she 
was so far gone that I and ail her friends feared it was too late. 
I cheerfully and gratefully make this addition to my former state- 
ment. Yours, JOHN U. DICKINSON. 
[Mr. Dickinson is one of the oldest magistrates of Bath County, 
and at different times a representative in the Legislature of Vir- 
ginia.] ROCKBRIDGE HUM SPRINGS WATER. 
These famous medicinal Springs having recently passed into the 
hands of a Joint-stock Company, it is proposed to place the water 
on the market at a price bringing it within the reach of the invalid 
public. 
For more than half a century it has grown steadily in repute as 
a Medicinal Agent in a wide range of Chronic Diseases, and prior 
to the late war it had attained a fame unapproached by any other 
mineral water in this country. 
It first attained celebrity by its complete and uncpiestionable cure 
of Scrofula in its worst and most aggravated forms. Cutaneous 
Eruptive Disea'es yielded to its action, and soon Chronic Diarrhoea 
and Dysentery were added to the lists of its conquests. The power- 
ful alterative effects of the water early attracted the notice of the 
profession, and many of its most distinguished members have certi- 
fied to its efficacy in a great variety of depraved conditions of the 
system, as Torpid Liver, Hemmorhage from the Kidneys, Hemorrhoids, 
Chronic Bronchitis, Catarrh of the Throat and Nasal Passages, Lesions 
of the Mucous Membrane generally. Multitudes of women can testify 
to its unsurpassed efficacy in the relief and cure of those ailments 
peculiar to their sex. The fine tonic properties of the water give it 
great potency in all anoimic conditions of the system, invigorating 
the appetite and increasing and enriching the blood. It lias repeat- 
edly proven its efficacy in Diabetes Mellitus, speedily correcting the 
saccharine depravity of the urine, and restoring the wasted flesh and 
strength of the patient. Probably in no type of disease has its 
efficacy been better attested or more unfailing than in Dyspepsia in 
its varied and most distressing forms. 
We have from under their hands written statements verifying all 
and much more than all we have here said, from such acknowledged 
authorities in medicine as Drs. Cabell and Davis, University of Va.; 
J. Gaillard Thomas and Thos. Addis Emmet, New York; Stone and 
Cartwright, New Orleans. The last named having broken in health 
and lost his hearing by his exposure and labors in Nat ,ez in the 
the first invasion of Asiatic Cholera in this country, spent two years 
abroad in visiting and studying the most noted spas of Europe. On 
his return to this country he spent his first summer at the Rockbridge 
Alum Springs, and ever after as long as he lived he continued to 
send his patients of the Southern country to these Springs, and to 
order or prescribe the water for them. In a letter addressed by 
him to the former proprietor, Mr. Wm. Frazier, bearing date “ New 
Orleans, July 28,1855,” after an elaborate comparison of this water, 
both in its constituent elements and its observed effects, with nearly 
all the most celebrated mineral waters of Europe, he concluded in 
these words; “In truth I know of no waters in Europe or America 
so rich in medical substances as that of your Rockbridge Springs.” 
And the advertisers wish to emphasize the fact that it was this 
Spring and none other (though another has surreptitiously appro- 
priated them), that these words were written by that eminent man 
in science and the healing art. 
To the list of medical names above printed, we might add a score 
of other distinguished physicians whose statements will be found 
in our Springs pamphlet. 
This water will be sold in cases of one dozen half gallon bottles, 
delivered on the cars of the C. & O. R. R. at Goshen, at $5.00 per 
case, and will shortly be placed with loading Druggists of the U. S. 
and Canada, The Water Put Up in Glass 
FOE SALE BY TEE FOLLOWING-AGENTS: 
PURCELL, LADD A CO Richmond, Ya. 
HEGEMAN & CO .No. 203 Broadway, New York City, N. V. 
JOHN WYETH & BRO No. 1412 Walnut St., Phila., Pa. 
WEEKS & POTTER. .N0.309 Washington St., Boston, Mass. 
CANBY, GILPIN & CO Baltimore, Md. 
STOTT & CROMWELL Washington,!). C. 
FULLER A FULLER No. 20 Market St., Chicago, 111 
JOHN C. L. ENGLE Jacksonville, Fla. 
MEYER BROS. & CO No. 0 N. 2d St., St. Louis, Mo. 
RICHARDSON & CO No. 704 N. Main St., St. Louis, Mo. 
R. MACREADY ACO. • No. 58 Walnut St., Cincinnati, Ohio. 
J. S. BURDSAL & CO. S. W. cor. of Main and 2d Sts. 
Cin., Ohio. 
,1. L. LYONS Nos. 42 Camp and 117 Gravicr St., 
New Orleans, La. 
R. A. ROBINSON A CO Louisville, Ky. 
0. J. LINCOLN Little Rock, Ark. 
DOWIE & MOISE Charleston, I. C. 
LAUGHLIN BROS. & CO W heeling, Wr. Va 
G. Wr. JONES & CO Memphis, Tenn. 
LAMAR, RAN K IN & LAMAR Atlanta, Ga 
IRVINE, GARSIDE A ALEXANDER Montgomery, Ala 
PESCUD, LEE A CO Raleigh, N. C 
SOTO A PRIMO -Mobile, Ala. 
J AMES BLIGH “ 
M. T. SPRAGUE