: 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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