Nye Lithia Springs Account Book 1896 - 1903

Access and use

Location of collection:
Wytheville Community College
F.B. Kegley Library
Wytheville Community College
Smyth Hall, Room 103
1000 East Main Street
Wytheville, VA 24382
Contact for questions and access:
POC: William A. “Bill” Veselik
Phone: (276) 223-4876
POC: George Mattis
Phone: (276) 223-4744
Fax: (276) 223-4745

Summary

Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

The account book records various transactions for Nye Lithia Springs from 1896 to 1903 including transportation, printing and advertising costs, typewriter, chemicals, postage, and taxes. The volume numbers 36 pages and is in fragile condition; several pages are torn and brittle. Photocopying is not permitted.

Biographical / historical:

After his 2890 discovery of lithia springs on his Wythe County, Virginia property, Dr. W. P. Nye (with developer Dr. Andrew J. Nye) sent samples to a chemist in Charlottesville for analysis. After successful analysis, Nye erected a spring house in 1891 and placed a tin roof on the spring. He marketed Nye Lithia Water to markets across the United States. Bottled in a small house behind the spring, the water received recommendations by local physicians and testimonials from prominent citizens. Circulars and brochures claimed health benefits including cures for headaches, kidney and stomach disease, diabetes, typhoid fever, and constipation. The popularity of spring waters and Wytheville as a popular summer resort boosted sales of the water. In July 1894, over 2,000 people visited the springs.

Acquisition information:
Donated by Ruth Ann Chitwood as part of the W. R. Chitwood Collection in 2001.
Physical description:
1 item.