Westbury Museum is planning an exhibition dedicated to the town’s historic swimming pool and is seeking memories from local people to help bring its history to life.
Work began on the swimming baths in Church Street in 1887 to mark Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Funded by mill owner William Laverton, the baths were officially opened the following year with huge local celebrations and a public holiday.
While we now think of them as a venue for a refreshing swim, the original building also featured private baths with unlimited hot water – a treat for many people whose homes lacked bathrooms.
The museum has artefacts such as the original swimming aid and has been kindly lent information and pictures from staff at the pool, but volunteers are also keen to hear the memories of local people.
“We know the baths have a fascinating history as a popular swimming pool where many Westbury people will have learned to swim. But they have also been used for many other activities. With the pool boarded over in winter, it became everything from lodgings for soldiers to a venue for dances, roller skating and even boxing.
“We would love to hear from anyone who would like to share their memories,” said Heritage Society joint chair Sally Hendry.
The special exhibition will open in mid-March.
Westbury Museum, which is located on the first floor of the town library, has been closed over the winter but returned to its usual opening hours on Monday 17th February. Its first exhibition will focus on the history of Westbury Choral.
Entrance to the museum is free, and everyone is welcome to pop in to view the exhibition or share their memories. You can also contact the team at info@westburyheritagesociety.org.uk.
Picture: A postcard of the Westbury Swimming Baths in 1900
