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SWIMMING MATCH, LAMBETH BATHS, WESTMINSTER BRIDGE ROAD

SWIMMING MATCH, LAMBETH BATHS, WESTMINSTER BRIDGE ROAD

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

#1876 - 1900  #ARCHITECTURE / BUILDINGS  #Engraving  #HEALTH  #RECREATION AND LEISURE  #SPORT  #WATERLOO