The unusual pool is truly a sight, but its unique half-moon shape was an accident. Originally, blueprints called for the pool to take the shape of a full circle, but tough rock prevented builders from following the original plans. Hunter of Indianapolis, Indiana. Hunter gained some fame as the principal architect of many of the public buildings in Indianapolis. During the late 30's he turned his t
alents to the construction of a series of public swimming pools with a design based upon the popular trend at the time-create an environment like that of a lake or beach. In the case of Mr. Hunter's work, he created the Hunter Seashore Pool, for which he received a US Patent. The features of this design included a central diving tower, a submarine viewing room, semi-circular layout, a gently sloping entry and a sand beach that surrounded the curved part of the pool. With landscaping, the pool made a striking appearance in addition to being very utilitarian and inviting to the public. Underwater and general area lighting allowed for evening use of the pool. Over the years of operation, this feature alone did much to encourage public use via pool parties and dances. In the earlier years of the pool, water shows featuring local youth performing diving and water ballet also provided a source of entertainment for the community. The pool was constructed as a PWA project-again making it historically significant. Funds were a mix of federal and community monies. Aside from the obvious recreational aspects of a pool, it also served a dual purpose. In 1895, the town suffered a catastrophic fire. Not only was there a lack of equipment to fight the fire, there was also a lack of an adequate water supply. In the consideration for building the pool, it was viewed that it could also serve as a water supply in emergency situations. A PWA project, sponsored by the town through a special levy, made construction of the pool possible. Gordon Sammons, of Moundsville, Engineer for the project said today that upon completion the modernity and beauty of the pool, of a patented type, had excelled all expectations. The special levy will be layed for 3 years. The city owns its water plant. Approximately $4,000 in bonds were issued and the total cost of the project was 25,000. The half circle has a radius of 75 feet. The pool is 8 1/2 feet deep in swimming and diving section, and the shallow section tapers to a few inches in depth for children to play. The beauty of the pool is enhanced by ornamental, lighted fixtures.
