For 84 years, the Manly Baths stood as a cornerstone of aquatic sport, nurturing countless state, national, and international swimming and diving champions. However, its history has been turbulent, with numerous changes and storms over the years.
Manly’s founder, Henry Gilbert Smith, established the first baths at the western end of Manly Cove in 1856-57. However, by the 1870s, their condition had deteriorated, prompting the newly incorporated Manly Council to seek funds for new baths—one for men and one for women. Initially, the council planned to build the women’s baths at the original western site, and the men’s at the eastern end of Manly Cove. However, wealthy landowners successfully lobbied for the men’s baths to be relocated to Little Manly Cove.
Champions, Carnivals, and Financial Hardships
The women’s baths were finally completed at the western end in 1885. However, the poor condition of the men’s baths at Little Manly led to a decision to build new ones at the intended initially eastern location in 1891. These new baths, designed by architect William Drake, were officially opened on March 19, 1892. Ernest Cavill, who comes from a family of accomplished swimmers, oversaw the Manly Baths and assisted in establishing the Manly Amateur Swimming Club.
The club hosted its first carnival in April 1892, featuring various events, including a captaincy race and a race in clothes and top hats. The economic depression of the early 1890s made it difficult for the men’s and ladies’ baths to remain financially viable. Despite challenges, the baths continued to innovate, introducing limited “dual bathing” evenings where men and women could swim together under certain conditions.
Tragedy, Transitions, and the Rise of Surf Bathing
In 1899, a young man tragically died after diving from the springboard into shallow water. The management of the baths changed hands several times, with Thomas Skinner taking over in 1900. Despite ongoing repairs and improvements, the baths faced increasing competition from the rising popularity of surf bathing. The early 20th century brought a series of storms that repeatedly damaged the baths, leading to costly repairs. Yet, the Manly Baths continued to host prestigious swimming events, including the Australian Ladies’ Championship carnival in 1916.
Wartime Struggles and the Push for Reconstruction
World War I impacted the Manly Baths, with many young men enlisting in the war effort. Despite these challenges, the baths continued to adapt, allowing dual bathing at certain times and hosting both men’s and women’s swimming clubs. By the 1920s, the baths were in dire need of repair and reconstruction.
A New Era of Challenges and Controversies
1926, after extensive delays and rising costs, the reconstructed Manly Baths were finally reopened. However, the new structure soon faced criticism for its safety and required further repairs. Despite these setbacks, the baths continued hosting major events, including the Australian National Games swimming section in 1928.
Continued Service, Final Demise, and Enduring Legacy
Throughout the 1930s and 40s, the Manly Baths remained a hub of aquatic activity. However, by the late 1940s, the baths were again in disrepair, leading to their demolition and reconstruction in 1949. The new Manly Baths were opened in 1952 and served the community for another 22 years before being damaged beyond repair by the devastating Sygna Storm in 1974.
The Manly Baths were ultimately demolished, but their legacy lives on. The remaining building now houses the Manly Yacht Club, Manly Diggers Swimming Club, and Northern Beaches Dragon Boat Club. The Manly Swimming Club has found a new home at the Manly Aquatic Centre.
Published Date 25-July-2024
