The area had prehistoric quarry which later became a mining site.
He even dug an artificial lake for the spa named Lake Tuendae.
Springer claimed to be a physician and a Methodist minister, though he was none.
Springers downfall came when he tried to push his luck a bit too far.
The federal government got wind of his operation and evicted him from the site.
Most of the concrete buildings still stand, repurposed as a research facility.
The artificial Lake Tuendae is now one of the few remaining habitats of the endangered species Mohave tui chub.
As to the name itself Zzyzx inspired at least two B-grade horror movies.
Sources:Wikipedia/Roadside America/WeirdUS/CN Traveller
