Where Did You Change? A Light Look at Bathing Machines - Softcover

Mary And David Schaefer

9780964869226: Where Did You Change? A Light Look at Bathing Machines

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0964869225 ISBN 13: 9780964869226

Publisher: Mica Publishers, 2006

The subtititle is: A Light Look at BathIng Machines. These dressing rooms on wheels dotted ocean beaches from the early 1700's to the early 1900's

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Review:

Lewis Carroll and bathing machines inspire decor and book By Roxann Moore News Editor When David and Mary Schaefer decided to decorate their Bethany Beach home, they struggled to come up with an idea that suited the charming two story cottage. They struggled until they stumbled upon the obvious at least, it was obvious for them. "When my wife and I were looking for a way to decorate this house, we said 'ah ha bathing machines,'" David Schaefer said. Bathing machines were horse drawn changing rooms that allowed men and women to bath in the ocean separately. They were very popular for approximately two centuries until the early 1920s. "They've been around longer than bicycles," Schaefer said. One would come to the beach with bathing clothes and, for a small fee, enter the machine. Inside, the bather would change clothes as a horse drew the machine into the water. When it reached a deep enough area in the ocean, the bather was assisted by dunkers who would help the person into the water. All of this was done with a strong caution that bathing in the ocean could lead to the death of those in frail or delicate health. Bathers were encouraged to seek medical advice from the doctor on the beach before getting into the bathing machine. These machines are mentioned by author Lewis Carroll in many of his stories and poems including "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Hunting of the Snark." In "Snark," Carroll said they have a fondness for bathing machines, believing they added beauty to the seaside. Schaefer said Carroll's reply to that line, "a sentiment open to doubt," shows he found the contraptions foolish. But these bathing machines sparked the interest of the Schaefers, who have started collecting them and use them in some form or fashion to decorate their house. Some of their bathing machines are knick knacks made of porcelain, others are in paintings and framed --Delaware Wave

- Written by an American couple this book takes a light hearted look at Bathing Machines around the world, including the machines associated with Bognor, Brighton etc. A superb book on the interesting life and uses of these machines --http://www.bognor-local-history.co.uk/book-bathingmachines.html

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