Hot Springs

The center of Hot Springs is the oldest federal reserve in the United States, today preserved as Hot Springs National Park. The hot spring water has been popularly believed for centuries to possess healing properties, and was a subject of legend among several Native American tribes. Following federal protection in 1832, the city developed into a successful spa town. Incorporated January 10, 1851, the city has been home to Major League Baseball spring training, illegal gambling, speakeasies, and gangsters such as Al Capone, Charles "Lucky" Luciano, Frank Costello, and Bugs Moran. It also features the childhood home of the 42nd U.S. President, Bill Clinton. One of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the United States, the Assemblies of God, traces its beginnings to Hot Springs, as do horse racing at Oaklawn Park and the Army and Navy Hospital.

Much of Hot Springs' history is preserved by various government entities.