The oldest known pool company just turned 100.
The Pool & Spa News Top Builder, which opened as a concrete contractor in 1914, celebrated a century since building its first pool. The company will mark the occasion in many ways, but it kicked off the centennial year with a gala at Fort Worth’s Cendera Center April 2. The 325 in attendance included members of the Pulliam family, current owners Debra Smith and Mike Clark, and employees current and past. Company friends, vendors and subcontractors also attended.
“It was a whole night of blessings,” said President/General Manager Smith.
Several high-level officials attended. Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price presented a city proclamation calling out Pulliam’s achievements. State Rep. Ramon Romero gave the company a state proclamation and a Texas flag that had been flown over the capitol in the company’s honor. U.S. Rep. Roger Williams gave a speech. The company also received a flag that was flown over the U.S. capitol from Congresswoman Kay Granger.
Pulliam recognized employees who’ve been with the company more than 10 years and those who have retired. Staff members who are military veterans received flag lapel pins from the White House.
“It was special, and everyone recognized the amazing, amazing fact that we have survived that long,” Smith said. “It was like a big family reunion.”
Money raised from the event, through admission fees and sponsorships, will be donated to the Careity Foundation.
Pulliam Pools was founded by brothers Theodore Creswell and Frank “Pop” Pulliam, who at first specialized in waterproof cement cattle dipping vats. Eventually they separated, with Theodore creating Pulliam Pools. After three generations of ownership, the family sold the firm to Smith and Clark, who serves as vice president.
Officials say Pulliam has built or renovated more than 16,000 projects in its history. Last year, it ranked No. 6 on the PSN Top 50 Builders list and reported a total 2014 revenue of $18.7 million.
