Built in 1902, West Baden Springs Hotel was a magnificent site located in Orange County in Southern Indiana; a place where most people would least expect to find such a unique and massive structure.

Featuring a six-story domed atrium (the largest clear-span dome in the world until the Astrodome was built in 1963), 700 rooms, natural mineral springs used for bathing and drinking (it was advertised that drinking the water would cure a number of illnesses), the resort drew celebrities from all around the country. Well-known patrons to the hotel were "Diamond Jim" Brady, Al Capone, mayors from major cities, governors and even a presidential candidate.

Professional baseball teams such as the Chicago White Sox and Cubs and the Cincinnati Reds held spring training on the baseball field located on the 250 acres that made up the property. Guests could also enjoy golf, horseback riding, bowling, billiards, swimming, hiking, and nightly theater. Most everything a guest would need was on the grounds including a bank, shops and a barber.

The stock market crash in 1929 caused the hotel to fall on hard times. In 1934, the Jesuits took over the property and, over time, altered the structure, removing much of its original ornamental design. Later, the Northwood Institute, a hotel management and culinary arts school made the building its home until 1983. Over the next 13 years, the property was idle, allowing weather and time to take its toll on the place once known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World".