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Vintage Postcards of Indiana Health FacilitiesIn 1884, while Samuel Story was digging a drainage ditch in Warren County, he discovered a natural spring. The water was refreshing, and after drinking it over time, he was convinced that his rheumatism had gradually disappeared. Within a few years, Harry L. Kramer built the beautiful Hotel Mudlavia on the site, to take advantage of the healing waters. It cost a whopping $250,000. The new four-story structure opened on Christmas Day 1890, and specialized in both water and mud baths. It soon became the place to go for rheumatism, and other achy ailments. People also checked in for rest and relaxation, the trails for buggy rides, the golf course, and the tennis courts. There was chapel for their spiritual needs, as well. Boasting a 400-acre farm, the hotel produced most of its own food. In 1928, rates for a stay at Mudlavia started at $6 a day for a single room and $12 for a double. On the American plan, all meals were included. Mud baths cost $2 each. At one time, there were 90 employees. Mudlavia%u2019s mud was dug from a nearby hillside, mixed with water, and heated. Then an attendant would slather a thick layer over a naked guest%u2014 from chin to toes. Being encased in this mud blanket would feel like having a warm bath. While you simmered for a while, an attendant would bring you cool drinking water and wipe the sweat away from your face. Then, the cocoon of dried mud was shattered. The next step was being taken to the shower room, where another attendant scrubbed you down. Finally, a bathrobe was supplied, and you rested in the cooling room. Unfortunately, Mudlavia was plagued by bad luck. The original building was destroyed by fire in 1920. After opening again in 1934, it was never able to recapture its past glory or popularity. A smaller building, known as Pleasant Valley Lodge, was built in 1960 as a rest home, which later became a restaurant. When it closed, a new owner arrived in 1971, and gave it the name Mudlavia Lodge. It burned down in 1974.Mudlavia Hotel and Sanitarium%u2014%u2014Kramer, Indiana%u2014%u2014Established 1890Rumored to be haunted, with some people claiming to have been pushed by ghosts.Others have heard noises and seen apparitions. Locals say it has been a site for practicing witchcraft.Today, the Perrier Water Co. bottles and sells the water from the springs.Sanitariums and Spas