Last Updated on December 15, 2022
Have you ever wondered where the swimming pool idea came from? Nowadays most people spend their time in swimming pools, especially during the summer season. However, if you are not familiar with the history of swimming pools, this article will help you better understand.
The History of Swimming Pools
The first swimming pool, the Great Baths of Mohenjo-Daro, goes back to ancient history. These Baths were constructed around 2600 B.C.E. out of gypsum and brick with stairs, benches, and a deck. The stairs were used to get in and out of the pool with ease. The experts believe that these Baths were used for religious purposes. After Plato took a stand on teaching children how to swim around 600 B.C.E., public baths became popular in Greece. The Roman diplomat, Gaius Maecenas, oversaw the construction of the first heated pool. After some time, heated swimming pools became a norm in the Roman Empire’s significant towns. It is possible to see the ruins of the heated Roman baths. One of the conspicuous ruins is the 900,000 sq. ft. bath that was built in 305 C.E.
How Did Swimming Pools Became Popular?
Swimming pools gained popularity in the middle of the 1800s after people learned more about the baths. It was easy for people to build baths, but swimming pools were not common. In 1837, six indoor swimming pools were built in London, revolutionizing the construction of swimming pools. When the modern Olympic games began in 1896, more people learned about swimming pools. At the time, fashion was a hindrance to the popularity of swimming pools. Wool was the primary material used in making clothes. This discouraged many people because they didn’t like swimming in woolen garments in a cold climate. On the other hand, in Australia, swimming was common during warmer climates. The indoor swimming pools were filled with seawater. Since people feared swimming in the sea, filling indoor swimming pools with seawater became popular because it was not that dangerous.
Swimming Pools in the U.S.
The first swimming pool in the U.S. was built at the Cabot Street Bath, Boston, in 1868. Although it could not qualify as a swimming pool today, the baths were built to serve the neighborhood. At the time, many people could afford home baths, and this swimming pool served a great deal. In 1907, Philadelphia was the first place in the U.S. to have an above-ground swimming pool. The pool was built in a club known as Philadelphia Racket. The use of filtration and sanitation methods was invented in 1910, thus revolutionizing the construction of swimming pools. Before these inventions, swimming pools were cleaned by replacing dirty water with clean water! This was not a big deal because most people were used to it. In 1910, Carl E. Arkley invented the gunite, which facilitated the construction of pools with ease.
After World War II, middle-class people emerged. As a result, swimming pools became a status symbol and a luxury. This made the swimming pool building industry skyrocket. In 1947, the swimming pool industry changed for good because above-ground pool kits became available. This meant that you could have a pool built in just one day and ready for use. Also, people would move with their above-ground swimming pools or sell them. Nowadays, swimming pools continue to change in construction, features, and design. With advanced technology, you can monitor your swimming pool using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This has improved security and pool use, especially if you have children or pets. As we continue to advance in technology, we can enjoy a wide range of options and benefits in swimming pool construction.
Conclusion
If you want to build or renovate your swimming pool, there are several things you should keep in mind. The materials to use, design, features to install, and the total cost is among the things you should keep in mind. Depending on your location, preference, and taste, the cost of building a swimming pool can vary greatly. For first-timers, it is prudent to seek professional help at all times. Finally, researching online and getting opinions from your friends or family members can prove helpful too.
