Vichy mineral water spring. Early 20th century postcard of visitors to the Vichy mineral water spring in France. Vichy had thermal baths in Roman times, and by the 16th century the springs had acquired a reputation for healing powers. Vichy's fame grew through the 17th, 18th and 19th century, and by 1900 some 40,000 people were visiting to 'take the waters', increasing to nearly 100,000 just before World War I in 1914. This spring is the Source Chomel. The postcard dates from around 1910.