The Twinbrook Pool, a beloved community cornerstone located at 13027 Atlantic Ave. in Rockville, Maryland, is proudly celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. Since opening its doors in June 1955, Twinbrook Pool has been more than just a recreational facility– it’s a testament to the dedication and spirit of the Twinbrook neighborhood.
To commemorate this milestone, the pool will host a special celebration on Saturday, July 26, welcoming the community to join in the festivities for just $6 per person from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The event promises a day filled with fun and nostalgia, featuring a ceremonial cake cutting, children’s entertainment, raffles, rubber duck races, commemorative t-shirts, and more. Celebration Schedule:
• 12:00-9:00 PM: Open to the public; $6.00 per person
• 3:00 PM: Celebration begins with displays of memorabilia and photos, moonbounce, games, “blue and yellow” manicures, and face painting
• 4:00-8:00 PM: Food trucks available
• 6:00 PM: Speakers and cake cutting ceremony
• 6:30 PM: Ducky race across the shallow end of the pool (rubber duck for racing—$1.00 per duck or six ducks for $5.00)
• 7:00 PM: Raffle basket winners announced (tickets sold throughout the day; $1.00 per ticket or six for $5.00)
The history of Twinbrook Pool is as unique as its celebrations. It was literally dug by dedicated community volunteers on land sold for a symbolic $10 by Archbishop Patrick A. O’Boyle, a gesture that underscores the community’s collaborative spirit. Established in the Twinbrook subdivision, which began in 1946, the pool quickly became a central gathering place for families, particularly those of World War II veterans seeking affordable homes, per the Twinbrook Community Association and the Twinbrook Pool.
In its prime, the pool attracted around 700 family memberships, serving as a vibrant hub that hosted events like sock hops on the pool house roof and poolside fashion shows. The Twinbrook Ducks swim team, a staple since the pool’s early years, continues to thrive today.
Despite changes over the years, such as the removal of the baby pool and high dive, Twinbrook Pool remains committed to its mission of providing a safe and enjoyable space for families. Importantly, the pool acknowledges its original status as a “whites-only” establishment in 1955 and celebrates its evolution into an inclusive environment that welcomes all, reflecting broader societal progress, as reported by the Richard Montgomery High School student newspaper.
Join the community in celebrating 70 years of memories and looking forward to many more at Twinbrook Pool.