Near this site stood a hotel resort founded by entrepreneur Lafayette Cooke, for whom the community of Cook Springs was named. Operated from 1884 to 1954, it was a grand example of the mineral-springs resorts developed around the nation during that era. Combining a health retreat with an entertainment destination, the hotel catered to upper-middle-class and wealthy patrons, who arrived by train directly in front of the building, enjoyed a wide range of recreational activities, and sought alleged health benefits from drinking the mineral-rich water. In 1930, Lafayette Cooke donated 1,600 acres and his hotel to the American School of Evangelism to be used for good deeds.