Glenwood Hot Springs History Passed Down Generations

Glenwood Springs History is passed down from generation to generation. For the Zelenka Family, history reaches as far back as 1945. That’s when the husband of Dory Zelenka, Tony, was stationed at Hotel Colorado during WWII. During the war, the pool served as a Naval Convalescent Hospital so soldiers could take advantage of the healing properties inside the hot springs. “My husband was shot in the chest and the arm. He was even awarded two purple hearts. He came here everyday to soak up until the day he retired,” says Dory.

After Tony was discharged from the military, Dory says he always talked about making his way back to Glenwood, so he could soak in the waters. That day came in 1967. “He was so here so much I figured I may as well get a job here,” remembers Dory.  She did just that, working in the sport shop for 22 years, eventually as a manager. “I guess they liked me to keep me that long,” she laughs.

All eight of her kids went on to work at the pool in various jobs including as lifeguards, teaching aerobic classes and at the snack bar. The majestic Hot Springs Pool is still a special spot for her family and kids. Dory’s daughter, Theresa, along with six of her children still lives nearby. And they still frequent the waters, where customers are still eager to say hello. “I was inside just the other day and a woman came up to me to say hello. That’s what working somewhere will do to you, I suppose,” Dory says with a chuckle.

For more on the history of the Hot Springs Pool check out the book which is available at the Glenwood Hot Springs Sport shop and was written by two Glenwood Springs Residents, Vicky Nash and Karin Gamba.