New Swimming Pool a Busy Place on First Day of Use
August 9, 1961
Little Falls Evening Times
Opening of the new swimming pool near the Monroe Street field was a big splash. About 400 swimmers, mostly children, were on hand for the first dip.
The facilities were scheduled to open at 1 o’clock and nearly half an hour before that the first eager youngsters were at the doors. There were at least 200 in line when the doors opened.
Only 200 baskets were available, and the supply quickly exhausted. From then on, children left their clothes in little mounds along the wall of the bathhouse. More baskets are being placed in use.
The crowd last evening was almost as large as that during the afternoon, with all areas of the pool fully utilized.
There is no charge for use of the pool or the bathhouse. At one time it was considered making a nominal charge for the use of the basket in which cloths and other belongings are stored, but it was subsequently decided not to do this season.
Michael Orapollo, a member of Little Falls Central School coaching staff, is pool director, with Greg Ferjanec as assistant.
Lifeguards presently working at the pool are: Bob Jantosciak, Sandra Young, Bernard McLaughlin, and Margaret Perry. It is possible that another lifeguard will be added because of the size of the crowds and the necessity for granting each lifeguard a day off each week.
For this week, the pool is closed mornings, and is open from 1-5 and 6-8 from Mondays through Friday. On Saturday and Sunday the hours will be from 1-5 and 6-8 only.
Tuesday and Thursday evenings are being set aside as family and adult nights, when no children will be admitted unless they are accompanied by a parent.
Formal dedication of the pool is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, August 20.
Some work is still in progress around the bathhouse and the surrounding grounds, but opening was arranged as soon as possible in order that the pool might be enjoyed as much as possible during the few weeks left of summer.
A 2026 Community-Led Solution, City Supported Effort
In response to the one-time need to open the community pool in 2026, a group of Little Falls, Pool-Friendly residents have stepped forward to support the continued operation of the Francis Skinner Municipal Pool and to begin planning for its long-term future. This effort reflects a collaborative partnership between the City of Little Falls, committed community volunteers, and Next, with each playing a distinct role and working together to ensure the pool can open for the 2026 season and be thoughtfully positioned for the years ahead.
Interested supporters can donate here.
