Sports and pastimes in River Towns. The development of Bathing and Swimming.

River Towns and Festivals Popular Recreation Many towns developed near rivers for communications, protection and so there was water for agriculture. In the Summer the festivals or wakes would have swimming, boating, sailing and fishing as well as the usual popular recreations. In Winter there would be ‘ice fairs’ including skating and bandey (type of ice hockey). Activities on land too. Working class also had more free time in Winter.

River bathing Bathing/swimming popular. Reasons: to wash, for survival, for recreation and for competition. Aristocracy liked to swim and would patronise lower class swimmers to represent them in wager races. 1st open air baths classes would use different parts of the river or water meadow. Bathing stations were set up to protect respectable citizens from being upset.

Public School Swimming Encouraged for reasons of hygiene and cleanliness. Recreational only at stage 1 & 2. No masters present. There were bathing stations or places where water depth differed (Tom Browns S Days). No costumes as boys only. Competitive swimming developed more in stage 3. Galas, inter- school etc. Newer Public Schools would have pools.

Spa and Sea Bathing Spa bathing became popular in Regency and Victorian times. Spa water was believed to improve health and have curative properties. Salt/sea water was also seen as a water cure. More people were able to do, as there was no cost. Cheap rail transport meant seaside holidays became popular and resorts developed.

Victorian Bathing Machines - Pulled into the water by horses then person got out for a wash or swim. Queen Victoria used one - it can be seen at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.

Public Baths Wash House Act of 1846: Government gave grants for building of public baths in towns. Aim to clean up the labouring classes and prevent epidemics. Also called ‘penny baths’ - cost a penny. There were clothes washing facilities and a ‘plunge pool’ for swimming. Middle classes had separate baths - they cost more and facilities better. Also had Turkish Baths.

Competitive Swimming Rationalisation Availability of ‘plunge baths’ turned a seasonal activity into a regular one. Swimming clubs developed and the ASA (amateur swimming association) was formed in By 1902 there were 550 clubs. FINA ( Federation International de Natation Amateur) First European Championships 1926.

1896 Athens Olympics. Swimming. In the sea!

1920 Antwerp. Swimming, outdoor pool

Question Explain why there has been a decline in river/lake swimming in recent years?

Decline in River/Lake Swimming Swimming Pools cleaner. Indoor pools warmer and used all year. Pollution. Safety, pools had lifeguards no currents etc. Facilities for washing selves and clothes incorporated into homes.

Exam Question Describe: (a) The sort of summer festivals you would expect in a waterfront town. (3 marks) (b) Another type of festival that might have occurred in a cold winter in this town. (3 marks)