History of the Hot Tub
Hot tubs have an impressive pedigree dating back to the mists of unrecorded history. Ancient people had always been aware of the therapeutic benefits of the earth’s natural hot springs. The healing properties of water have been recognized at least since the time of ancient Egypt. The Romans were known to build temples and bathing areas centered on naturally occurring hot springs.
This practice was not limited to the western world. A good therapeutic soak was appreciated and practiced across such diverse cultures as the Native tribes of North America and inhabitants of the Far East. The benefits of hydrotherapy for the mind and body have been common knowledge for millennia.
The Romans brought this practice to Britain. Bath, England has been a destination for those seeking the spring’s healing properties since 800 B.C. According to some sources, Queen Elizabeth I was a frequent visitor to the spas at Bath. This practice quickly spread across the Atlantic with the settlement of the American colonies. Saratoga Springs in New York was a popular destination to take the healing waters, claiming George Washington as a visitor.
By 1915, the building of swimming pools and spas was becoming more common. By the 1960s redwood hot tubs began to sprout up all over California. Unfortunately these wooden units were prone to leakage, leading to the acrylic tubs we enjoy today.