Mineral Waters is water containing minerals that alter its taste. Mineral Water is also said to give it therapeutic value, can often be sparkling or bubbly and can be prepared or can occur naturally. The drinking of water from mineral springs was very popular for a full century with the peak period falling between 1860 and 1900. The majority of collectible bottles were produced during these years. The shape and sizes of mineral bottles are not very creative, the lettering and design, both embossed and paper are bold and interesting. The range in size from 7 inches to 14 inches. Most of these bottles were cork-stopped and manufactured in a variety of colors and shapes.
The difference between Mineral Water and
Soda Water bottled in the 1800s and early 1900s is still unclear. Soda water is commonly considered flavored or simulated mineral water made of regular water and has carbonation. Mineral water would generally be natural waters from spring sources that were typically highly mineralized and were sometimes flavored.
Glenn Springs, SC
Mineral Water Bottle
One of the earliest bottle styles identified with mineral water was the "Saratoga" style which was closely identified with the mineral waters of the Saratoga Springs area of east central New York. Most early bottle styles like the Saratoga have squatty bodies and a short neck. In the early 1800s mineral waters would be used or consumed at their source. As more and more glass bottles were made mineral water was consumed all across the United States.
