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The first mineral “spring” was discovered in 1881 and therefore changed the course of history for the city.  Dawson exploded on the scene as a leading health resort in the South.  In 1898 the “Springs” was added to the name of the town in recognition of its mineral water.  At the turn of the century Dawson Springs was in its “golden era,” culminating with the construction of the ultra-modern, 150-room, New Century Hotel.  Between 1900 and 1920, thousands of visitors arrived annually by train to “take of the waters” and stayed at The New Century, or approximately 50 other hotels and boarding houses.  The Pittsburgh Pirates held spring training across the Tradewater River at Riverside Park from 1915 to 1917.  Several other major and minor league baseball teams trained and played exhibition games there.  Today Riverside Park is home to the Tradewater Pirates.