A salt-water pool dug at Lincoln Park in 1926 had mud sides and bottom, and proved to be very popular, so swimming enthusiasts called for constructing a more permanent swimming pool. In 1941, Kenneth Colman and his family, long-time residents of Fauntleroy, donated funds to the city for an outdoor salt-water pool and bathhouse to honor his father, Laurence Colman (1860-1935). As of 2026, the Colman Pool continues to operate as one of the city's favorite swimming pools.

The dedication of the Laurence Colman Pool at Lincoln Park in West Seattle was held on July 4, 1941. According to the program shown here, the event included a "Water Program" of diving, tandem and speed swimming, "canoe ballet", and boys' and girls' relay races, held after the christening of the pool and ribbon cutting. The program also includes data about the pool and its water supply, as well as the adjacent building.