Article: History's a charm at French Lick spa

French Lick, Ind. -- Sports fans know of French Lick as the hometown of basketball legend Larry Bird. But during a period that lasted from the late 1800s to the 1950s, the small Midwestern city was as famous for its swanky visitors as its natural spring water.

Pluto Water, as it was dubbed, wasn't like the mineral water we're accustomed to today. The sulfur-rich drink was more of a diuretic than a refreshing thirst quencher. Hence, its slogan: "When nature won't, Pluto will." Guests were encouraged to carry canes during their morning walks. When nature called -- and apparently it called quite often after a glassful of Pluto Water -- it was considered the polite thing to place your cane on ...