Across cultures and centuries, swimming pools have been the center of summertime recreation. Public pools date back to Ancient Greece where even in a highly segregated society, both rich and poor sought refuge from the heat, providing the opportunity to relax and sunbathe. Pools have largely been a democratic leisure activity but as economic woes continue to impact public funds around the world, more are closing. Are private clubs, backyards and water parks the future of swimming?
Today, swimming pools are the beacon of American culture. Municipal pools gained popularity in the U.S. during the Victorian era, initially serving as baths for the urban poor who lacked in-home facilities. By the 1920s, the purpose of public pools had shifted dramatically and every major city began dedicating dollars to create accessible, and sometimes elaborate, public spaces for city-dwelling swimmers. More cities began to build pools with sand beaches, grass lawns and concrete decks so that Americans could swim, sunbathe and socialize.
According to Jeff Wiltse, a history professor at the University of Montana and the author of “Contested Waters – A Social History of Swimming Pools in America”, Americans swam as frequently as they went to the movies. “Pools became emblems of a new, distinctly modern version of the good life that valued leisure, pleasure and beauty. They were, in short, an integral part of the kind of life Americans wanted to live.”
Some public pools around the world have gotten considerable more attention for their amenities, symbolizing the epitome of summertime living. A public pool in Berlin that floats on the Spree River boasts yoga classes, concerts, movie screenings, a cafe, a man-made beach and an amazing view. The Coral Gables Venetian Pool in Florida is a tropical paradise filled with fresh spring water each night.
Recently, the Huffington Post reported that public pools throughout the nation are steadily closing due to high operational costs including insurance, staffing and maintenance. As more public pools close across the U.S., how will the lack of pools change our society? Pools are not only fun for children and families, but act almost as safe havens, deterring negative behaviors. Will the lack of public pools in our country render children inactive and indoors during the hot summer months?
Such a simple invention of Mother Earth, shells serve as homes to sea life. Then discarded, they become
treasures to those that find them. Each as individual as a finger print.
Shot on an iPhone using an InstaGram filter, by Rick Painter.