Helix Natatorium (Community Swimming Pool)

The Helix Natatorium, as it was then called, was first built by local pioneer farmers using two or four horses and Fresno Scrapers. Construction was completed in 1916 and was one of the first public pools in Umatilla County.

The land for the pool was donated by Ludwig Koepcke for a park. Some of the farmers who brought in their teams of horses and mules were Tom Cook, Ed Snapp, Ira Scott, Jim Jill, and Art Grover. The proverbial hat was passed at the pool hall to help pay for its construction. Soon, the pool was lined with cement and became a center of activity for the community.

Still in use after many decades, the pool was last remodeled in 1976. The Helix Park and Recreation District is currently working on a new pool facility. Voters passed a bond measure in May 2022 which helped to raise $1.8 million to design and build a new public pool, splash pad, pump house, and improve the bathhouse and exterior restrooms, along with a refurbished sports court near the City Hall.