Today, the small town of Colfax is just another charming central Iowa town, located about half an hour east of Des Moines. It has a population of around 2,200 and has a quiet but thriving retail and dining sector. However, almost a hundred and fifty years ago, this historic town in Iowa was a very different place. It was one of the most bustling towns in all of Iowa, partially due to its success as a mining town. But what the residents found in the ground that made them a destination wasn’t ore – it was mineral water, and soon Colfax was home to a wildly successful healing spring that transformed its fortunes. Today, Colfax is still known as “Spring City”, so let’s take a journey back in time to Colfax’s exciting past.
Today, Colfax is a normal Iowa town - and many people outside its borders don’t know about its unique history in the 1800s.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
During those days, Colfax was a hub of industry - home to many successful coal mines. But soon, the town would strike pay dirt - but not in the way they expected!
Henry Hinds/Wikipedia
In 1875, coal miners discovered a well containing water with a high mineral content. The idea of mineral water being a cure-all was popular, and an industry would soon spring up around it.
Colfax, Iowa
The word got out about the supposed healing powers of Colfax mineral water, and it wasn’t long before the coal town became a tourist hub.
Colfax, Iowa
A massive bottling plant was opened, producing bottled mineral water for the masses that couldn’t make it to Colfax. That soon turned into four bottling plants!
Colfax, Iowa
Of course, was there any better way to experience Colfax mineral water than in person? Soon, hotels and spas became the town’s top industry.
Colfax, Iowa
The mineral spring business was booming, and it turned Colfax into a destination, with a total of nine hotels and spas. But then the Great Depression hit, and the good times were over.
Colfax, Iowa
Today, the mineral springs no longer exist, but the town remains a charming tourist stop. The quirky breakfast stop Cratty Shack is a top destination!
Kenneth Hagerup/Google Local
Do the massive breakfast plates have healing powers? Probably not - but they certainly will give you the energy to take on the day.
Austin Sexton/Google Local
Have you visited Colfax or heard about its unique past? Tell us about your experiences in this historic town in Iowa in the comments section. If you want to learn more about the town’s history and current offerings, you can visit the official website. For a look into Iowa’s rail history, consider taking this unique train-themed day trip.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
Henry Hinds/Wikipedia
Colfax, Iowa
Kenneth Hagerup/Google Local
Austin Sexton/Google Local
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Address: Colfax, IA 50054, USAAddress: Cratty Shack, 21 E State St, Colfax, IA 50054, USA
