Date

12-19-2023

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in History (PhD)

Chair

Joseph Super

Keywords

Bedford Springs Resort, Antebellum America, James Buchanan, Pennsylvania, American elite, "watering places"

Disciplines

History

Abstract

Antebellum America has been described as a period of turbulence for the nation as the North and the South grew farther apart through sectionalism. While voters relied upon the increasing partisan press to inform them of debates in Washington and the often-deliberate decision to forgo the ultimate decision on slavery, in private politicians forged friendships through social events such as parties and dinners. When the Congressional session ended in early summer, politicians often accompanied by their families would travel north to Saratoga Springs or west to the much cooler climates of the mountain resorts: Bedford Springs, White Sulphur Springs, Warm Water Springs, or Berkeley Springs. Over the course of three to four weeks or the whole season, politicians would relax and enjoy the camaraderie of the company which included members of both the Northern and Southern elite. At Bedford Springs particularly, the resort provided the environment necessary for politicians of all parties to interact with members of the Northern and Southern gentry. Through their conversations and often annual meetings, local, state, and national politics were discussed and planned. As a result, the resort became synonymous with political patronage, especially that of James Buchanan. With a documented forty visits, the Pennsylvanian statesman made the resort his summer White House in 1857-1860, propelling Bedford Springs to the height of her popularity. Much like a spiderweb, the summers spent at Bedford Springs and its competitors not only strengthened the ties between members of the Northern and Southern elite but politicians as well. In contrast to the reporting of the partisan press, the discussions held at Bedford Springs between representatives of all parties were peaceful and productive, built on decades of friendship ignoring sectionalist differences.

Download

Included in

History Commons

Share

COinS