Lambert Beach and Bathhouse

1915; 1925

The “beach” is special because it was one of Park Commissioner Ray Lambert’s first projects in Brackenridge Park, and its remodeling and expansion was one of his last projects. In 1915, it was a more natural-looking pool, lined with gravel that was transformed into a more formal swimming pool in 1925, only one year before Lambert’s death. In 1925, concrete stairs and landings were added to provide easy access to the river, and a stone bathhouse replaced rustic dressing rooms. Arched openings on both sides of the building accessed changing rooms. 

The roof of the bathhouse was removed in 1992 when the structure was converted to an open‐air “playscape.” A stone-retaining wall separates the bathhouse from the river level. It is partially collapsed. Stairways leading down to the river and adjoining walkways that allowed swimmers to access the river are badly deteriorated. The directive for the areas are: preserve and rehabilitate the Lambert Beach river walls, acequia walls, and upper labor dam; preserve the lily pond walls and water gates; and rehabilitate and restore the pump house structure.

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