George Washington’s Bathtub: A Monument to Presidential Bathing

George Washington’s Bathtub is in West Virginia’s Berkeley Springs State Park. It’s a small part of an already small park. The tub, as you can see from the above picture is outdoors and rocked in. It is a modern interpretation of what bathing in the park looked like in the late 1700.

So sorry, no, you cannot take a bath like George Washington did. I am not ashamed to admit I was a bit disappointed to learn that when I visited Berkeley Springs on a cool early spring morning.

I have visited many presidential monuments. This is one of the more unusual one. It’s the only outdoor monument to presidential bathing—at least, that I know of.

Washington frequently visited Berkeley Springs starting in 1748 as a 16-year-old land surveyor’s assistant. Over the years, he would often return and even bought property nearby. In fact, not only Washington but three signers of the Declaration of Independence, four signers of the Constitution, seven members of the Continental Congress, and five Revolutionary generals were among the prominent colonists who made land purchases. The “Ye Famed Warm Springs,” as it was known then, was thought to have healing qualities and was quite famous.

He often wrote of his visits to the springs. “We found of both sexes about 250 people at this place, full of all manner of diseases and complaints; some of which are benefited, while others find no relief from the waters . . . I think myself benefitted from the water and am not without hope of their making a cure of me — a little time will show now.”

Visiting Berkeley Springs State Park

Today, as it has been for more than 275 years, Berkeley Springs State Park is a destination. The park is renowned for its warm spring water, which flows at a constant temperature of 74.3 degrees. George Washington’s Bathtub is just one small reason to visit.

America’s First Spa is still a luxurious experience. The main bathhouse offers a relaxing Roman Bath. The private walk-in Roman Bath contains 750 gallons of mineral water heated to 102 degrees and sourced right from the spring. A whirlpool, massages, and other spa services are available.

There is a museum on the second floor of the bathhouse, which includes exhibits of historical items of natural and cultural significance.

If you are in the area, make sure to check out George Washington’s Bathtub, but also make time for a Wild and Wonderful relaxing time at Berkeley Springs State Park.