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Gat Caperton in March 1998 event
Celebrating the only monument to Presidential bathing, Gat Caperton plays a modern day George Washington for the March 1998 Winter Festival event Photo: Jeanne Mozier, courtesy Travel Berkeley Springs

Winter Festival of Waters (Berkeley Springs)

This tiny town around the ancient mineral springs has always been a major attraction for visitors. In 1776, George Washington, his family, and colonial cronies incorporated the settled area as the town of Bath, named after the celebrated English resort. Although the town is still officially Bath, since the early 19th century, it has been known by the post office name of Berkeley Springs.

Each February, the town hosts a three-month-long celebration of the healing power of water. It features a Tasting of Waters competition with waters from all over the world. The 10-year-old event also celebrates the nation's first spa with demonstrations and social events. It has gained international recognition as one of the largest and longest-running events of its kind. Project is documented with photos, slides, a videotape of national and local news coverage, promotional materials and written report.

Originally submitted by: Robert E. Wise, Jr., Representative (2nd District).



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The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.

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