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14 | THE COLONY NEWS | JULY 2023 | OUTREACH TO HISTORY By Lennie Martin From deep recesses in valley floors, geothermal water bubbles to the surface and forms hot mineral pools. Nearly 3,000 years ago, Luiseño natives cleansed and sought healing in hot springs of Temetngna (Temecula). In 1873 Juan Murrieta, our town namesake, washed his sheep in the cleansing waters. By 1890, the little town of 800 people became a destination for travelers seeking rejuvenation and relaxation. In 1902, German immigrant Fritz Guenther established Guenther's Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. Bungalows were built on site for long-term guests; others stayed at local hotels, including the Fountain House. Visitors traveled by train to the Murrieta Depot and took carriages to the resort. As the resort grew in popularity, the Stone Lodge (Annex) was built in 1926. Guests would soak in the mineral and mud baths, believing the springs had healing properties and seeking relief from aches, pains, and other maladies. A bathhouse and gymnasium were added in 1928, along with rooftop sunbathing, movies, and a miniature golf course. In 1931 an outdoor pool was constructed. Landscaping, rock, and water features added beauty. For decades the resort provided work for the community, as well as offering recreational activities, dinners, dancing and entertainment. In the 1950s, it became a popular celebrity spot with John Wayne, Lucille Ball and others as guests. The following decade saw decline in attendance and in 1969 the Guenthers sold the property. It became an Alive Polarity commune, cancer clinic, and Christian conference center. Calvary Chapel bought it in 1995, did extensive restoration of historic structures, and created a Bible College that also housed retreats. After 26 years, Calvary Chapel sold the resort in 2021 to the Olympus Real Estate Group, whose plans were to create a luxury destination, turning Murrieta Hot Springs Resort back into the spa and wellness facility that it once was. The 46-acre property worth $50 million is under renovation, which is estimated to take several years. On site are 40 buildings, including a restaurant, auditoriums, guest lodges with 200 rooms, swimming pools and hot springs spas (temperature 102F). The extraordinary property with deep-rooted history, dear to many residents who eagerly support restoration, has potential to transform the wine region's tourism market. To view what the finished resort will look like, go to https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_aQbKRhLaY Murrieta Hot Springs Then and Now