Pool Filled with Mountain Reservoir…..
The Largest Indoor Pool isBiltmore Estatepool. Built 1895. Asheville NC – boasts of being the largest private home in the USA. This 70,000 gallon pool is filled from a direct line to a mountain reservoir that was 2 miles away. Heated with steam from the houses boiler with the fire hose you see. The lights in the pool are DC lights and are original to the pool. Tile work was done by Raphael Guastavino who was known for his work at Grand Central Station, Boston public Library and Carnegie Hall.
After 3 days it had to be drained….
The ropes you see hanging in the second pic are for resting if you were tired of swimming. The pool has no filtration, circulation or chemicals. After three days and the biology experiment of heated pool water – they had to drain the pool, clean it and then refill and reheat for the next use. Sadly it no longer holds water but is there for all to see on the tour of the Biltmore Estate. This is definitely on our family’s vacation destination!
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As a seasoned expert and enthusiast in historical architecture, engineering marvels, and notable achievements, I am well-versed in the intricacies of various structures that have stood the test of time. My passion for understanding the technical aspects of such constructions allows me to provide comprehensive insights into unique feats of engineering and architectural ingenuity.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating information presented in the article about the Biltmore Estate pool, a testament to the grandeur and innovation of its time.
Biltmore Estate Pool: A Historical Marvel
1. Biltmore Estate Overview:
- The Biltmore Estate, located in Asheville, North Carolina, is celebrated as the largest private home in the United States. Built in 1895, it stands as an iconic example of Gilded Age architecture.
2. The Largest Indoor Pool:
- The article highlights the Biltmore Estate's indoor pool, which holds the distinction of being the largest of its kind. With a capacity of 70,000 gallons, it serves as a captivating feature within the estate.
3. Water Source and Heating Mechanism:
- One of the most intriguing aspects is the pool's water source. It is filled from a direct line to a mountain reservoir situated 2 miles away. The heating of the pool is achieved through steam from the house's boiler, utilizing a fire hose for the process.
4. Lighting System:
- The article mentions that the pool's lighting system consists of DC lights that are original to the pool. This showcases a historical perspective on early electrical systems.
5. Tile Work by Raphael Guastavino:
- The tile work within the pool is attributed to Raphael Guastavino, a renowned artisan known for his contributions to iconic structures such as Grand Central Station, Boston Public Library, and Carnegie Hall. This adds a layer of historical significance and craftsmanship to the pool.
6. Unique Features:
- The ropes hanging in the pool are highlighted as a distinctive feature, suggesting that they were used for resting if swimmers grew tired. This personal touch contributes to the overall uniqueness of the pool.
7. Maintenance Challenges:
- The article reveals that the pool lacks modern amenities such as filtration, circulation, or chemical treatment. This interestingly results in a three-day cycle: the pool is used, then drained due to the biology experiment of heated pool water, cleaned, and finally refilled and reheated for the next use.
8. Current Status:
- A touch of melancholy is added by mentioning that the pool no longer holds water. However, it remains a fascinating attraction for visitors during tours of the Biltmore Estate.
Conclusion:
- The Biltmore Estate pool stands as a remarkable historical artifact, showcasing not only the opulence of the Gilded Age but also the engineering and architectural prowess of the time. The details provided in the article paint a vivid picture of this unique indoor pool and its place within the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate. It undoubtedly adds an extra layer of intrigue to any family's vacation destination list.
