French Lick Springs Hotel began as a mineral-springs destination in Indiana in 1845. Thomas Taggart's later ownership is documented; stories identifying cigar smoke or an elevator encounter with his spirit are separate, unverified claims.
Before the Grand Resort, There Were the Springs
The resort's official history identifies Dr. William Bowles as the founder of the original hotel. Guests were drawn by the springs and the health claims made for their water.
Those claims explain historical marketing, not demonstrated medical benefits. Describing a resort as a health retreat in its own era does not validate the treatments it promoted.
How Thomas Taggart Transformed French Lick
Taggart purchased French Lick Springs in 1901 and expanded its facilities, decor and golf offerings. The hotel became associated with political gatherings as well as leisure.
French Lick Springs and nearby West Baden Springs are distinct hotels. West Baden's great domed atrium should not be attributed to French Lick Springs merely because both belong to the resort's broader history.
The official account also records Cook Group's 2005 purchase and subsequent restoration.
Cigar Smoke and the Story of a Returning Owner
The earlier article repeated stories about cigar odors, an elevator presence, music and figures in guest rooms. It did not identify a first-hand account or original recording supporting them.
Calling an unexplained smell Taggart's cigar adds an identification that the smell alone cannot establish. A real former owner can become a character in a legend without evidence that a visitor encountered him.
What the Mystery Still Leaves Open
A useful account would document the date, location and circumstances of a report, including any ordinary sources of sound or odor. It should preserve the distinction between the visitor's experience and the explanation later attached to it.
For current information, consult the hotel directly. Browse Indiana stories or compare another historic hotel's documented origins at the Blennerhassett.
What would you ask someone who noticed cigar smoke at French Lick before connecting the odor to Thomas Taggart?