1. Esther was born in Los Angeles in 1922 into a poor family which became even poorer during the depression of the 1930s. On learning to swim, she found an immediate affinity with water that apparently exists to this day. Esther's aptitude for swimming opened doors that would normally have been closed to her. She was allowed to use the pool at the Los Angeles Athletic Club, and was invited to enter competitions as a member of the club's team. Esther was a distinguished competitor who set new swimming records, and rapidly she acquired medals and fame. In 1941, Esther was a true Goddess. She stood five feet eight inches tall. She had a pretty face, long athletic legs and a firm, shapely figure. Esther also had a husband, a steady job, a level head, an independent mind and a disdain for show business. Unfortunately for MGM, there was no other suitable candidate. MGM laid siege and the war of attrition began. The siege of Troy lasted longer, but MGM did have to wait a year before Esther signed with them. She was nineteen years old. Esther Williams Arthur