The Place, The History, The Art
Historic Yellow Springs is a living village steeped in a distinguished history, tradition, and folklore that stirs the imagination of those who visit. The village spans 300 years of American history. Today, the village includes 11 buildings and 142 acres. HYS continues to host a wide range of fine art, sculpture and ceramic classes for adults, teens and children, boasts of some of the best art shows in the area, contains a beautiful venue for weddings and events and hosts numerous trails for all who visit to enjoy, including passing the revolutionary war hospital commissioned by then General Washington.
Our Mission
The mission of Historic Yellow Springs is to share, preserve, and celebrate the unique living village of Yellow Springs. Focusing on history, arts, education, and the environment, Historic Yellow Springs enriches the lives of all who come here.
Our History
The History
The history of Yellow Springs village spans nearly 300 years. Archaeological evidence suggests that Native Americans first used the iron rich “yellow” spring water thousands of years ago.
18th Century
In the 18th century, Yellow Springs was a fashionable spa village that attracted visitors who sought healing waters and social interaction.
The Hospital
During the American Revolution, George Washington commissioned a hospital to be built in the village, the first military hospital in North America. Washington himself visited on numerous occasions.
Afterwards
Following the war, the village returned to a spa town during the early 19th century.
Orphan School
From 1868 to 1912, Yellow Springs was home to the Chester Springs Soldiers’ Orphan School for children of Civil War soldiers.
Fine Arts
From 1916 to 1952, the village served as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Country School.
Good News Productions
From 1952 until 1974 the village was the headquarters of Good News Productions, a film studio in Yellow Springs that created over 400 films including the sci-fi original The Blob.
Since 1974
From 1974 on, Historic Yellow Springs, Inc. has preserved many of these original structures and educates visitors about our unique past.