The latter part of the 19th century was an era of tremendous change and growth throughout the United States. Leisure activities had once been sharply segregated by gender, class and ethnicity, and circumscribed by the restraint and social mores of the Victorian era. Industrial and technological advances, however, had transformed lifestyles at all levels of society, and leisure time was no longer solely the province of the wealthy. By the late 1890s, American popular culture was in a revolt against the stifling Victorian code of propriety, celebrating instead, greater personal expression, self-fulfillment and vigor. Outdoor activities and organized sports were seen as both healthy and socially acceptable. The fresh air and salt water of the beaches were considered particularly healthful.
In the Good Old Summertime explores the late 19th and early 20th century fascination with what was, at that time (unbelievably), an unknown sport — swimming — or as it was then known, Surf Bathing.
We invite you to come celebrate summer with us and learn about surf bathing and the other summer pastimes you would have enjoyed a hundred years ago.
Wings on Ice Exhibit
Photography by Mitch Carucci. View all projects and exhibits at the Long Island Maritime Museum.