Courtesy of The Bookstore
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Courtesy of: The Thomas Family
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Tourist traveling to view Hidden River Cave once arrived in Horse Cave via rail. The Mammoth Cave Inn, also known as the Owens Motel, housed many a traveler until it's closure in 1977. Though time and fire has taken its toll, this historic building still stands today. The City of Horse Cave is currently applying for funding to revive this historic building.
This view of the cave entrance, (upper right) gives some idea of the gigantic proportions of the spectacular features that attracted visitors from around the world to Hidden River Cave.
Courtesy of: The Thomas Family
In 1890, an ingenious vertical shaft turbine was erected below the confluence of two cave streams to power the cave's water pumping system. The addition of an electrical generator in 1892 provided electricity to several buildings in Horse Cave. This gave Horse Cave the distinction of being the first town in Kentucky to have incandescent lights.
Courtesy of: The Thomas Family
This dam was constructed within Hidden River Cave as an iatrical part of the water works system. Though the system itself was shut down in the 1940's, the dam, and much of the equipment, still remains in the cave today.
Courtesy of: The Thomas Family
Tennis Anyone? During the Thomas Era, a tennis-court could be found 60 feet below the surface. It was located in the sinkhole, which also housed a sunken garden, many large trees and the entrance to Hidden River Cave.
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Courtesy of: The Thomas Family
This shop was not only situated on a corner, but also hovered above the entrance to Hidden River Cave. Standing alongside the store is Horse Cave's original water tower.
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Hidden River Cave tickets and guest registers provide a glimpse into the cave tours of yesteryear. This ledger dates back to August of 1931.
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"All Roads Lead to Hidden River Cave." In years past, combination trips were offered by Hidden River Cave, Mammoth Onyx Cave and Floyd Collins' Crystal Cave. Click on brochure to read text.
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