The Rawley Springs Hotels in 1886.
The Shenandoah Valley Herald, Woodstock, VirginiaThe History of Rawley Springs

Since 1800, Rawley Springs has been a destination for visitors seeking relaxation and a taste of the medicinal waters. In 1810, Benjamin Smith built the first cabin for his mother who had an incurable disease. She recovered fully after spending her first summer in the area. The resort soon flourished and more cabins were built. In 1825, the area was named Rawley Springs after a farmer who lived near the resort.

By 1880 three hotels were built on the property accomodating 800 guests. Visitors enjoyed bowling alleys, stables, and music from the bandstand. The resort suffered a loss in 1886 when the Virginia and Washington houses were burned down. Both were rebuilt in 1892 and again burned in 1915.

Recently, Rawley Springs has been a recreation and leisure spot for visitors looking to cool off in Blue Hole or fish in Dry River.

The Virginia Hotel at Rawley Springs around 1900. It burned down in 1886. Harrisonburg Public Library

The elegant band stand in front of the Baltimore Hotel around 1900. Harrisonburg Public Library

Views of the grounds at Rawley Springs. Roanoke Public Library

Views of the grounds at Rawley Springs. Roanoke Public Library

Spring House at the end of the road on the hillside above Blacks (Gum) Run. It was probably built sometime after 1915. Roanoke Public Library

Stone building foundations still found in the underbrush at the end of the road. Roanoke Public Library