Buffalo Lithia Springs, Buffalo Junction, VA, 24529

## Overview Buffalo Lithia Springs is a nationally recognized historic site located in Buffalo Junction, Virginia, within Mecklenburg County. In the late 19th century, this spring became one of the most celebrated mineral water destinations in the United States, drawing visitors from around the world who sought the reputed health benefits of its naturally lithium-rich waters. The springs gained widespread fame during the Gilded Age, when mineral water resorts were at the height of their popularity. Buffalo Lithia Springs was marketed as a therapeutic destination, and its waters were bottled and sold commercially across the country. The resort that once stood here attracted wealthy patrons and prominent figures who believed the mineral-laden waters could treat a wide range of ailments. What makes these springs geologically remarkable is their naturally occurring lithium carbonate content. According to a U.S. Geological Survey report from 1886, three distinct springs were documented at this site. Spring No. 1 contained approximately 1.48 grains of lithium carbonate per imperial gallon (roughly 21.1 mg/L), while Spring No. 2 had a higher concentration of about 2.25 grains per imperial gallon (approximately 32.1 mg/L). Spring No. 3 contained only trace amounts of lithia in a different compound form. It is not definitively known which of these three springs corresponds to the one currently accessible at the historic site. Interestingly, the therapeutic use of lithium-containing waters predates the modern medical understanding of lithium's pharmacological properties. Today, lithium is a well-established treatment for bipolar disorder, treatment-resistant depression, and other psychiatric conditions, typically prescribed at doses of 900–1,800 mg per day. The concentrations found in these springs are far below clinical dosing levels — drinking one liter from Spring No. 1, for example, would provide roughly 1/40th of a standard therapeutic dose. However, modern research has explored the potential benefits of even trace-level lithium exposure. A notable epidemiological study conducted in Japan found that regions with slightly higher naturally occurring lithium concentrations in their drinking water (as low as 0.059 mg/L) correlated with lower suicide rates and greater longevity, even after removing suicides from the statistical analysis. Separately, laboratory research has demonstrated increased longevity in *C. elegans* (a model organism) when exposed to lithium at a concentration of 20 mM (approximately 138 mg/L). Naturally lithium-rich springs like Buffalo Lithia Springs are exceptionally rare. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as a fascinating intersection of American resort history, geology, and early wellness culture. Visitors should note that the water has not been tested or certified for modern drinking water safety standards, and its current mineral composition may differ from historical analyses. ## Directions 1. From South Boston, Virginia, head east on **US-58 East** for approximately 13 miles. 2. Watch for **Buffalo Springs Road** on your left. 3. Turn left onto **Buffalo Springs Road** and continue to the Buffalo Springs National Historic Site (address: 177 Buffalo Springs Road, Buffalo Junction, VA 24529). 4. The spring is located just beside the **white pavilion** on the property. **GPS Coordinates:** 36.648416, -78.66239 ## What to Expect Buffalo Lithia Springs sits within a quiet, historically significant landscape in rural Mecklenburg County. The spring itself is located next to a distinctive white pavilion that marks the site. The surrounding area retains a sense of its past grandeur, though the elaborate resort that once operated here is long gone. The site is designated as a National Historic Site, so visitors can expect a preserved and respectful setting. The spring area is generally accessible from the road without a strenuous hike. The flow and accessibility of the spring may vary seasonally, so visitors should be prepared for changing conditions. This is a place steeped in history — ideal for those interested in American mineral spring culture, Gilded Age resort history, or the unique geology of lithium-bearing springs. Take time to appreciate the rarity of what you're seeing: naturally lithium-rich springs are among the most uncommon mineral water sources on Earth. The area around Buffalo Junction is rural and services are limited, so plan accordingly. South Boston, about 13 miles to the west, is the nearest town with gas stations, restaurants, and other amenities.