Sellwood Pool celebrates a century of splashing

By David F. Ashton

The Bee, Jul 7, 2010

David F. Ashton / THE BEE

The Sellwood Pool’s manager Kim Cunningham keeps a watchful eye on an “Open Play” swim session.

Nothing says “summer” like a dip in a cool pool on a hot summer’s day. And, since 1910, the Sellwood Pool, now operated by Portland Parks & Recreation, has continuously operated to the delight of kids and adults.

“It was Portland’s first public pool,” revealed Kim Cunningham, the pool’s manager. “And, I think it’s Portland’s best pool. I grew up two blocks from here, and used to come swimming here every summer. It’s just amazing to me that now I’m the manager!”

According to PP&R spokesperson Beth Sorensen, the Sellwood Pool was built a century ago as a replacement for the previous municipal bath house, which had been floating at the foot of Jefferson Street. The “Jefferson Street Natatorium” — a floating structure with a slat bottom, and sides — was closed due to the increasing pollution in the Willamette River. That was because, as you may or may not know, all of the city’s sewers emptied directly into the river until nearly the middle of the 20th Century — and the population was growing.

The Sellwood Pool has been refurbished at least three times, and remains one of Inner Southeast Portland’s most enduring summertime attractions. It’s open 7 am until about 9 pm -- but there are a wide variety of closed swim programs throughout the day. “Open play” swims are: Monday through Friday from 1 till 3:35 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays from 1 till 5 p.m.

The Sellwood Pool’s Century Celebration is Tuesday, July 13th, at 1 pm. It’ll feature free swimming, guest speakers, cake, face painting, games and prizes for the whole family.

Their website: www.portlandonline.com/parks/finder/index.cfm?PropertyID=1130&action=ViewPark

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