History Press

Hot Springs from Capone to Costello

$23.99

From a hot springs attraction to a central location for gangsters, gambling, moonshine and organized crime, trace the evolution of this "loose buckle in the Bible belt," now a resort and major tourist destination.


In the late 1800s, Hot Springs, Arkansas, was a small town with a big attraction: hot thermal water. The federal government took possession of the downtown-area springs, and Bathhouse Row was born, along with the first property that would be considered a national park. Following not too far behind were great entrepreneurs who brought in gambling and prostitution to go with the area's leading industry: moonshining. By the time the 20th century rolled in, Hot Springs was booming with tourists and became America's first resort. In the early 1930s, former New York gangster Owen Madden took up residence in the spa city, and things became very organized. Gangland luminaries from Al Capone to Frank Costello made regular pilgrimages over the next few decades to what was referred to as "the loose buckle in the Bible Belt."

11 in stock

Pickup available at 610-C Central Avenue Usually ready in 24 hours

Default Title

  • 610-C Central Avenue (1/2)
    Pickup available, usually ready in 24 hours

    610-C Central Avenue
    Hot Springs AR 71901
    United States

    501-620-3971

  • All Things Natural (2/2)
    Pickup currently unavailable at 610-C Central Avenue

    416 Central Ave
    Hot Springs AR 71901
    United States

    +15013593013

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