Swope Park, Swimming Pool

The swimming pool complex - a 105 by 60-foot swimming pool, a deep diving pool and a children's wading pool - near the lagoon in Swope Park was built in 1941 at a cost of $400,000 in WPA funds. The city's share of $125,000 was paid for with savings from operating expenses gained from admittance fees to the pools. The complex accommodated 3,000 swimmers and had dressing rooms, shelter, checking facilities and a refreshment stand. It was open during the summer months through Labor Day. Nominal admissions were charged. June 20, 1951, six Negroes were denied the right to purchase tickets to the pool. The city's contention was that equal facilities for Negroes were provided at pools in Negro areas. The city was formally notified Aug. 2, 1951, that a suit would be filed in the U.S. District Court here to require that the Swope Park swimming pool be opened to Negroes. The suit was filed by Elmer T. Adair and Carl R. Johnson, president of the Kansas City branch of the NAACP. The pool was closed for two years during litigation and a wait for the final decision. Under a decision May 7, 1952, by Judge Albert A. Ridge in the federal court here, which was upheld by the U.S. Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court, segregation would have to be eliminated or an equal pool be constructed for Negroes in Swope Park. City officials pointed out that another pool was out of the question because of lack of funds. The park board then announced that beginning June 12, 1954, admittance will not be restricted on the basis of race. An editorial in The Star Sept. 8, 1954, commented: The new rule in Kansas City is simply compliance with the U.S. Constitution as interpreted by the Supreme Court. There is no point in an argument between those who like it and don't like it. The city's clear responsibility is to make a success of the pool and keep it operating for the benefit of all who want to use it. In Kansas City the shift has been handled quietly and well. Kansas City Times, May 18, 1979.