The Traveling Pool Salespeople OF ESTHER WILLIAMS

The traveling pool salesperson was a staple of the American landscape during the early 50s to mid-70s. Back in those days, summertime was synonymous with fun in the sun, and owning a swimming pool was the ultimate symbol of a luxurious, carefree lifestyle.

The swimming pool sales rep was the person who brought that dream to life, bringing the latest innovations in pool design and technology right to your door.

After World War II, the United States was booming and swimming pools became increasingly popular as a way to beat the heat and enjoy time with family and friends.

Advances in materials and construction methods made it possible to build pools that were both durable and affordable, and people began to see pools as an investment in their own quality of life.

Named after the famous actress and swimming star, Esther Williams Swimming Pools were some of the most well-known and respected pools on the market. The company was known for its high-quality pools and innovative designs, and its

BY JOE TRUSTY

traveling salespeople were the face of the company, spreading the word about the latest in pool technology and design.

Pool Magazine recently procured a traveling pool sales kit from Esther Williams Swimming Pools from 1959. The kit included a number of samples of pool decks, as well as a detailed brochure that outlined the latest in pool construction and design. This sales kit was a testament to the pride that the company took in its products, and it’s clear that the traveling salespeople of Esther Williams Swimming Pools were well-trained and knowledgeable about the products they sold.

Esther Williams Swimming Pools were originally made by the International Swimming Pool Corporation in White Plains, New York. This company was at the forefront of pool technology, and it was responsible for many of the innovations that made pools more accessible and affordable for the average homeowner. The company was known for its use of high-quality materials and construction techniques and led in the development of new designs and features.

For the traveling pool salesperson of that era, selling a pool was more than just a transaction. It was a chance to help families create their own little slice of paradise right in their own backyard. The salesperson would visit a potential customer’s home, survey the property, and listen to the family’s needs and desires. Then, using the tools in his kit, he would help the family envision their perfect pool, customizing the design to suit their needs and tastes.

Of course, selling pools wasn’t always easy. The salesperson had to be a master of persuasion, able to overcome objections and close the sale. But for those who were successful, the rewards were great. The traveling pool salesperson was often seen as a respected member of the community, and they were well-compensated for their efforts.

Today, the art of pool sales has changed dramatically. While the traveling salesperson is still a part of the industry, the methods of selling pools have evolved to keep pace with advances in technology. A pool designer now presents a 3D design concept and virtual walkthrough to help clients visualize their ultimate backyard, and the use of computer-aided design (CAD) and virtual reality (VR) has made it easier than ever to see what a pool will look like before it’s even built.

Despite these changes, however, the essential purpose of the pool designer remains the same. They still play a vital role in helping families create the backyard of their dreams, and remain a symbol of the American spirit of innovation and progress.