Thursday, June 9, 2016

1890 PROPER SWIM ATTIRE FOR REHOBOTH BEACH

: Proper Surf Bathing Attire For Rehoboth Beach in 1890

Coast Press Newspaper published in: Rehoboth Beach

Source: newspapers

Page/Column: Michael Morgan Delaware Diary

Rehoboth Beach 1890

Some vacationers at Rehoboth Beach did enjoy an ocean bath, between 11 am and 2 pm, the beach being clean, free from stone and rough shell, and the surf had no dangerous undertow. To do so the bathers needed to shed most of their clothing, without the discard of Victorian modesty.
Early bathing suits were made of bark blue or black flannel, female versions had elbow length sleeves, were worn with stockings and bloomers which covered the body from knees to shoulders. Men were able to forgo the stockings. When wet and sandy the bathers suits were wet and heavy, making it near impossible to wade, let alone swim. The town commissioners decree made this the legal way so as not to appear vulgar when wet

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