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Welch Hospital and Welch Spring

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The abandoned ruins of the Welch Hospital sit next to Welch Spring along the Current River, located in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The two-story hospital was developed as a health resort for people affected by asthma. It was believed that patients could be helped by the cool, pollen-free air from the cave. The hospital ceased operations in 1940 with the death of its owner, Dr. Christian Diehl. Welch Spring delivers an average daily flow of 78.2 million gallons of crystal clear water to the Current River.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established in 1964, making it America's first national park area to protect a wild river system. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which include the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams. Visitors can enjoy water activities, such as floating, canoeing, tubing, swimming, and fishing. Additionally, there are opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Over 130 miles of waterways and 300 identified caves exist within the park.

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Welch Hospital and Welch Spring.jpg
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© John L. Dengler
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Ozark National Scenic Riverways
The abandoned ruins of the Welch Hospital sit next to Welch Spring along the Current River, located in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The two-story hospital was developed as a health resort for people affected by asthma. It was believed that patients could be helped by the cool, pollen-free air from the cave. The hospital ceased operations in 1940 with the death of its owner, Dr. Christian Diehl. Welch Spring delivers an average daily flow of 78.2 million gallons of crystal clear water to the Current River.<br /> <br /> The Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established in 1964, making it America's first national park area to protect a wild river system. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which include the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams. Visitors can enjoy water activities, such as floating, canoeing, tubing, swimming, and fishing. Additionally, there are opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Over 130 miles of waterways and 300 identified caves exist within the park.