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Matthew Webb winning the endurance swim at the Lambeth Baths and Washhouses at 156 Westminster Bridge Road. Webb swam 74 miles over 6 days, he had also trained in the pool to become the first cross-Channel swimmer. The baths were built in 1853 by a private company and were then considered the largest establishment of their kind. They included first & second class swimming pools and slipper baths, although women were not permitted to swim in the pools. The pools were also covered over, permitting use as a public hall and for athletic meetings. They survived until the early 20th century. Engraving from a contemporary newspaper, 1879

Details
Collection:
Image type:	Engraving
Artist:
Ref:	05309
Identifier:	LBL/DAS/RL1/2/5 p210
Date:	1879

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