Today's episode is the first in-depth discussion on a specific topic of importance to rural communities, swimming pools. This details why swimming pools are important to a community, discussing the concept of "third place." It also discusses the story of the city pool here in Stamford, Texas, how admission became free in 2018, and the impacts on the community of free pool admission.
Read more about the idea of third place here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place
If you would like to learn more about the sad, infuriating history behind segregated swimming pools, read here (warning: it's not enjoyable): story https://theconversation.com/the-forgotten-history-of-segregated-swimming-pools-and-amusement-parks-119586
Check out the Facebook page for the Stamford City Pool to learn more about our summer events and big goals that will be announced later in the summer: https://www.facebook.com/stamfordcitypool
Subscribe to my weekly essays and contact me here: westof98.substack.com
