Historic Benton Hot Springs

More Than Water—A Legacy Worth Protecting

Our History

The valley that Benton Hot Springs is located was part of a natural road long used by indigenous peoples. The Hot Spring was a stopping point for part of the Fremont-Walker expedition of 1845.

Later, the hot springs sat on the trail that was used to bring cattle from southern California to meet the growing needs of the mining population in the Eastern Sierra. The location and the hot springs were major factors in establishing the mining town and the development of the area later as a resort.

Upcoming Events

Local Legends

William Wetherill

William Wetherill was born in 1820 in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, into an established colonial family. In May 1849, he departed Philadelphia for California, traveling by sea around Cape Horn and arriving in San Francisco in November of that year. By 1861 he had relocated to Aurora, Nevada. In 1864 Weatherill served as representative of Aurora and Esmeralda County at the Nevada's second constitutional convention, convened to frame the state constitution in preparation for sta

The Archives

1864

In the fall of 1864 silver was discovered on Blind Springs Hill. Several miners set up camp around the hot springs. Benton Hot Springs was born.

1870s

As Benton prospered, businesses sprang up to serve the growing mining community. A Wells Fargo station and stagecoach stop, general stores, hotels, newspapers, saloons, and breweries made the town a lively regional hub.

1900

During the heyday of Benton, the population was 900 but plummeted to less than 50 at the turn of 20th century. This was a result of lower silver prices and lack of financing.

1920s

A new era dawned on Benton as it shifted away from mining to tourism. Warren Davis ushered in the this new era by renovating the Wai Wera Hotel and enticing tourists to enjoy "the waters".

NOW

W.W. Bramlette bought the town in 1928. For almost a century, the Bramlette family has operated Benton Hot Springs with a strong commitment to keeping the town alive.

Ongoing Projects

Heritage

Cultural Revitalization

We are actively engaging in restoration projects that highlight the vibrancy of Benton Springs' unique history, promoting awareness of its significance during the California Gold Rush.

Education

Educating the Community

Our educational programs aim to inform visitors about the importance of cultural preservation and the stories tied to our town’s heritage.

Volunteering

Community Involvement

Engage with us through volunteer opportunities, where you can help preserve and celebrate the historical legacy of Benton Springs while making a meaningful impact.

“It has been said that, at its best, preservation engages the past in a conversation with the present over a mutual concern for the future.”

-William Murtagh

A Legacy in Pictures

Help us grow our collection—submit your historic Benton photographs and become part of preserving our community's heritage.