History of New York City Public Pools

Dive into the history and future of New York City’s public pools with the South Street Seaport Museum and + POOL’s Program Director—and proud public pool superfan—Nora Cronin. This lively, interactive presentation will be all about the role of pools in city life.  

From floating bathhouses to pools of the Works Progress Administration to the dream of swimmable cities, we’ll explore how public pools have made waves socially, politically, and culturally across New York and beyond.

Bring your curiosity and your questions. This fun and engaging event is all about making a splash—no goggles required. A reception will follow the presentation.

Nora Cronin is a swimmer, lawyer, educator, advocate for public spaces, and Program Director at Friends of + POOL, where she oversees the implementation and execution of all programs, including free and low-cost swimming lessons for children and adults, water stewardship initiatives, and STEM education opportunities. Nora is also a proud member of Team New York Aquatics, a masters swim team founded and led by members of the LGBTQ community, and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she keeps up with her lawyerly life by teaching courses on Landmark Supreme Court Cases and Social Movements.