This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
Evolution of swimsuits mirrors social change through ages
A historical review traces swimwear from coded modesty to bold styles. From leather dresses in Martha Washington’s era to modern bikinis and monokinis, the piece surveys fashion, public morals regulations, and landmark moments like Kellerman’s 1910s outfits and Ederle’s 1926 swim. It notes regulatory shifts and a 1946 bikini debut.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Martha Washington
Europe
Sears Roebuck and Con
Continent
America
Atlantic
Daller
Adeline Trapp
Brooklyn
Hell’s Gate
New York
East River
Kellerman
Polive
Shades of Venice
American Association of Park Superintendents
New Orleans
Gertrude Ederle
English Channel
Charles Bossert
Atlantic City
France
Bikini Atoll
Paris
Donald Primirase
c/o Sears
S. Fremont Ave
Alhambra
Gibson