Celebrating 125 Years in Excelsior Springs The City of Excelsior Springs was founded in 1880 after discovering that the Iron Manganese mineral water bubbling in Fishing River had medicinal qualities. Legions of people tried it for various ailments and many had amazing results. As they searched for more supply, they tested the waters to find more varieties including Calcium Bicarbonate, Soda, Salt Sulpher and Lithia. This was more types than had been found anywhere else in the world. This year has been proclaimed the 125th Anniversary of Excelsior Springs - the Valley of Vitality. It is important to celebrate the history of our community, how it has shaped our lives and to acknowledge the contributions made by dedicated individuals in helping to make our community a great place to live, work and play. A proclamation was issued at the April 4, 2005 council meeting in recognition of the 125th Anniversary of the founding of Excelsior Springs. Several events have been planned to celebrate this important milestone. A block party was the first event, held June 11, from 4 to 10 p.m. in the circle drive at the Hall of Waters. Activities included live games, music, dance presentation by Tanya Duncan Dancers, a skit from "Peter Pan", birthday cake and other refreshments. On August 31, during the annual Pride Kick-off sponsored by the Excelsior Springs Standard and Chamber of Commerce, a framed original oil painting by local artist Lynda Kurtz was unveiled. The painting, "Reflections", was done as a commemoration of Excelsior Springs in celebration of the 125th Anniversary. Find out more about this painting ... click here! A second event, a formal 125th Gala Celebration and Auction, took place Thurs., October 20, at The Elms Resort Hotel. This very special and unique evening featured displays retelling the stories of people, families, businesses and organizations that have made a significant contribution to making Excelsior Springs a great place for all of us to live and raise a family. The original oil painting commissioned for the Anniversary and some of the first numbered prints signed by artist Lynda Kurtz, were auctioned. The funds raised from the dinner and auction will be used to restore several of the mineral water spring houses and support the Excelsior Springs Historical Museum. The auction was conducted by Troy Snelling, pictured above with (left to right) Sharon Heatwole, Director of Sales for The Elms Resort Hotel, Vicky Bates and Dennis Hartman, emcees for the event. Be a part of the 125th Anniversary Celebration of Excelsior Springs by getting souvenir items including t-shirts, mugs, post cards, and coins for yourself or gift giving. Souvenir items, featured above, are available at the Excelsior Springs Historical Museum and Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce office located at 101 E. Broadway and at the Hall of Waters Spa and Water Bar, 201 E. Broadway. Anyone hosting an event that would like to promote Excelsior Springs 125th Anniversary is welcome to do so, and may use the anniversary logo if they so choose. (Click here for .pdf of logo.) Click here for Block Party photos. Return to top