In the quiet town of Covington, just north of Memphis, Micky Thornton’s backyard stands as a testament to dreams realized on a grand scale. What started as a simple desire for a family pool in 1992 evolved into a 500,000-gallon masterpiece that has become one of the largest homemade backyard pools in the world.
Micky’s journey began 29 years ago when he decided to turn his childhood dream into reality. The pool, built in stages over the years, showcases his unwavering dedication to creating a unique aquatic haven for his family and the community.
No Ordinary Backyard Pool
Thornton’s dream was no ordinary backyard pool; it was a vision of grandeur, one that echoed the vastness of a pond rather than a confined swimming space. Over the years, the pool underwent significant transformations, starting with a polyethylene mat lining, followed by a rubber liner, and finally, a durable spray-on concrete finish.
In a video interview, Thornton expressed the inspiration behind his colossal creation, stating, “I wanted [the pool] large in the deep end but large and deep enough you could swim around it and not feel like you are trapped in a little box.” The result? A sprawling aquatic landscape comprising 320 yards of gunite, 40,000 pounds of steel rebar, and a mesmerizing assortment of rock-lined waterfalls.
Jane Thornton, Micky’s wife, played a role in the pool’s placement, insisting it be positioned away from the house. Reflecting on the decision, she shared, “I told him he had to move it out some. He told me, ‘But it’s all pasture and it runs downhill,’ and I said, ‘You’re smart enough, you can figure it out. ‘”
More Than Just a Pool, Part of The Family
The pool wasn’t just a family retreat; it evolved into a communal space, hosting soccer teams, birthday parties, weddings, and even the Japanese National baseball team. Mrs. Thornton reminisced about the unexpected visit, saying, “There was 50 [people].”
Thornton’s innovation extended beyond the pool’s size and design. He created his own filtration system, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in maintaining the vast body of water. Speaking about the filtration system, Thornton stated, “I designed and built all the filtration systems, the pumping system, the waterfall systems.”
This 500K Gallon Swimming Pool Is a Tricked Out Colossus
Among the standout features in the colossal oasis is a captivating waterfall where visitors can sit behind, look through, or even stand up and let the water cascade onto them. The pool’s size and design also cater to the thrill-seekers. Thornton demonstrated the varying depths, emphasizing the opportunity for flips, dives, and more adventurous water activities. A rope swing, ingeniously attached to a telephone pole anchored in three yards of concrete, has been a source of endless fun for over two decades.
The pool is not just a labor of love for Thornton; it holds sentimental value as well. Over 400 people have been baptized in its waters, making it a unique spiritual space for the community.
As Thornton guides viewers through his backyard oasis in the video, he shares details about the pool’s features, including a rope swing and a meticulously crafted diving board. His passion for creating a natural setting is evident in every detail, from the rocks to the waterfalls.
Thornton’s story is one of determination, creativity, and a deep love for aquatic spaces. As he concludes the video with a smile, he states, “My 500,000 gallon backyard pool is the coolest thing I ever made.” Indeed, Micky Thornton’s backyard oasis stands as a testament to the extraordinary possibilities that can arise when dreams are pursued with dedication and vision.
Photo / Video Credits: YouTube @coolestthing
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