--submitted by Brian Roslund, Friends of Roosevelt's Little White House President
The historic pools created by Franklin D. Roosevelt in his battle against Infantile Paralysis, will be filled with water from the world famous warm springs for bathers Labor Day Weekend.
For three days only (September 1-3)these historic pools will be open to the public. It is truly a rare occasion that the pools are opened and a wonderful opportunity for a truly unique experience. Admission for the 90-minute swim sessions is $20 per adult and $12.50 per child (6-17). For more information or reservations call (706) 655-5870.
Franklin D. Roosevelt arrived in Western Georgia in October of 1924. Roosevelt, who contracted infantile paralysis three years earlier, came seeking treatment in the 88-degree mineral water that flowed naturally from Pine Mountain. Today, the warm springs are recognized as one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia."
"There are seven known warm springs in Georgia," said Brian Roslund, President of Friends of Roosevelt's Little White House. "The springs located near Roosevelt's Little White House have a flow rate of 914 gallons per minute. The water averages 88 degrees year round."
Swimming in the warm mineral water provided no miracle cure for the President. However, it did provide Roosevelt the inner strength to re-enter the political world and run for Governor of New York and later the Presidency.
According to Roslund, "It was here that Roosevelt was able to stand in three feet of water unaided. The bi-carbonate provided buoyancy; he could exercise for longer periods of time without fatigue because of the minerals content and temperature. He was also able to move his leg for the first time in three years."
In 1926 Roosevelt would purchase the pools, springs, 1100 acres of land and a run-down Victorian era resort. Spending two-thirds of his personal wealth to create the world's first post-polio treatment center.
For decades the Georgia Warm Springs Foundation was recognized as a leader in post-polio therapy. Funding for the therapy came from the March of Dimes, an effort started by the President to facilitate development of treatment for polios across the nation.
In Warm Springs, Roosevelt constructed his cottage on the northern slope of Pine Mountain. The cottage which became known as the "Little White House" is now a state historic site that includes the treatment pools facility.
"This is a unique opportunity to experience the waters that changed the world. This is where Roosevelt became FDR." Roslund said.