113: Hidden Splendors, Part 2: The Untold Stories of West Baden and French Lick
In the shadow of the grand domes and opulent halls of the West Baden Springs Hotel and French Lick Resort lies a trove of untold stories, waiting to be discovered. Our previous episode with Jeff Lane unpeeled the layers of these historic resorts' general past, setting the stage for today's deep dive into the hidden nooks, crannies, and curious tales that these walls hold. Welcome back to Hometown History, where history comes alive in the detail and the delightfully unexpected anecdotes of Indiana's twin jewels. Dan Frotscher, our insightful guide at the French Lick Hotel, reveals the quirks of fate and fortune that these resorts have seen.
We'll wander through the lesser-known pathways that crisscross the campuses, unearthing stories of clandestine casino operations, secret tunnels, and the high society that once graced these spaces with their presence. These resorts are not just bastions of healing springs and high-stakes gambling—they are storied vessels that sailed through the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and wars that changed the world. As we peel back the curtain to showcase the eccentric and peculiar chapters of the West Baden and French Lick legacy, visit itshometownhistory.com for more captivating stories. Join us as we continue to explore the nooks of history often overlooked yet rich with narrative gold.