In August, 1884, the noted Springs were purchased by C. E. Hilts, Esq., of St. Louis, Mo., becoming the owner and proprietor.
Mr. C.E. Hilts, a dark haired, short. stockly-built man; his wife, Elizabeth, and their son, Irving,  had been among frequent visitors of the spring grounds.  Mrs. Hilts loved the spring grounds and when she heard the spring grounds were for sale, she persuaded her husband to purchase the property.
For years, the previous owners of these Springs were almost constantly engaged in suits at law; which did much to detract from the interest of the Springs, by their continuous litigation.  But since the Springs passed into different hands and better management, extensive improvement was characteristic of a rapidly growing interest in these Springs as a health resort.