A CENTURY OF SWIMSUITS

ROTATING EXHIBIT

Swimming and swimsuits have always been a part of the Chesapeake Beach story. They reflect societal and historical changes, which are especially visible in the swimsuit fashions of the early 1900s. This exhibit documents these changes from the modest woolen bathing dress, complete with stockings and cap of the early 1900s to the daring two-piece bikini that emerged in the United States in the 1940s.

Left photo: Chesapeake Beach Railway brochure, c.1910; Right photo: Chesapeake Beach brochure, c.1929

 

“Venus Costumes at Chesapeake Beach”, Asbury Park Press, NJ p.1, May 25, 1920.
“Venus Costumes at Chesapeake Beach”, Asbury Park Press, NJ p.1, May 25, 1920.