J.O. Langford built the Hot Springs Store and Post Office in 1927 to serve as a local gathering place and community focal point. People came from all around - to get mail, trade, or just catch up on the local news. The mail carrier made weekly trips from Marathon to Hot Springs, staying two nights in the little house which he built near the post office.
In 1942, the Langfords sold their property to the State of Texas for eventual donation to Big Bend National Park. The hot springs and post office/store continued to be operated as a concession by Maggy and H. Baylor Smith. Maggy operated them alone from 1944, when her husband died, until 1952. She was known for her kindness and ability to get along with her neighbors south of the border, often assisting as mid-wife and rendering first aid. In 1974, Hot Springs was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.