Banner Lodge Pool | East Haddam Stories

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East Haddam Stories

The Olympic-sized swimming pool was the crown jewel in Banner's diverse attractions. Opened for the 1954 season, it immediately became the centerpiece of guest activity.

The Largest Private Pool in New England

A 1954 competition, before the pavilion was built.

The Olympic regulation pool in the 1960s. Its depth ranged from three feet to 11 feet.

A view looking toward the stage. The pool was 165 feet long.

A 150-foot-long pavilion offered shade, a chaise, and a spot for mahjong games.

The view from the stage, looking at the resort office on the left and the playhouse on the right.

A view from the shade.

Shuffleboard courts behind the pavilion.

Couples shuffleboard.

Ping pong tables were on a patio by the pool.

In the years before the pool opened, the lake was the place to be for socializing, watersports and beach lounging. Once the pool opened, the lake became a much quieter place.

Before the Pool, There Was the Lake

Hand-colored postcard, "Water sports at Banner Lodge" (early 1940s).

Aerial shot of the beach
(1940s).

Paddleboats and rowboats allowed guest to explore the pond (1960s).

The busy lake and beach (1950s).

Horse trails encircled the small lake (1940s).

Guests watching water-sport competitions (1950s).

A 1950s crowd at the beach.

Couples enjoying the lake (1950s).

Swimming lessons for guests (1940s).

Enjoying the beach (1950s).

View from the beach (1948).

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