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Consistory Pool
One would not expect a school on Delaware Avenue just north of downtown Buffalo has a swimming pool, but beneath Canisius High School lies one of the most historic swimming pools in Western New York. The pool was part of the addition to the Rand mansion after the Freemasons purchased the property in 1925 and converted it into the Buffalo Consistory, a clubhouse for the order. The pool is now nearly a century old as it was built in the mid 1920s, approximately two decades before Canisius purchased the property.
This swimming pool in the school’s basement is a unique but somewhat hidden feature. Unless you are an alumnus, a student, or a faculty/staff member, you may not even know that the pool exists. However, this swimming pool is the site of some of the school’s richest history.
On Saturday, October 22, 1927, one of the historical moments took place as Olympian Johnny Weissmuller set a new world’s record for a 300-yard race at what was then the Consistory pool. His name may sound familiar to some as he went on to have a successful acting career after winning five Olympic gold medals. Weissmuller is well-known for his role as Tarzan in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Johnny Weissmuller was also one of the first people to swim in the pool as he appeared at the gala opening ceremonies for the Buffalo Consistory.
Today, the pool maintains much of its beauty from when it was originally built by the Freemasons. The 75-foot pool is lined by the same grand pillars as well as a balcony on one end. On many mornings one can find the Canisius swim team using the pool for practice. Having the pool on campus is beneficial for the team which has been one of the most successful swimming programs in Western New York in recent years. The Crusaders have won 17 consecutive Monsignor Martin league championships.
From hosting one of the world’s greatest swimmers, to members of the Freemasons, to students during gym class and practice, the pool is yet another hidden, historical gem at Canisius High School.
