Welcome to the first episode of the "Sip and Saga Society," where we dive into the fascinating stories of yesterday. Today, we explore the captivating journey of the Crescent Hotel, from its origins as a haven of healing springs to its renowned reputation as a haunted hotspot.
Nestled within the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs blossomed in 1879 as a haven of healing springs, attracting comfort-seekers from far and wide. Guided by Governor Powell Clayton's vision, Eureka Springs flourished. The Crescent Hotel opened in 1886 as a lavish retreat perched atop Crescent Mountain. Over time, the hotel transitioned into the Crescent College for Women, only to later fall into the hands of Norman Baker, a fraudulent figure who exploited its reputation for his notorious cancer clinic, enduring periods of decline and destruction. Despite setbacks, Marty and Elise Roenigk's restoration efforts in the late 1990s preserved the Crescent's historic allure while updating it with modern amenities, solidifying its position as a symbol of hospitality and fascination in Eureka Springs.