To highlight just how obsessed lawmakers have historically been with controlling the human body and our treatment of it, in 1922 people known as swimsuit policemen actually existed, and would stroll around beaches making sure that swimsuits were never more than six inches above the knee.
In the late 19th century, swimming became less about health and more about pleasure. At that point, the genders divided; men swam with men, women with women, but rarely together.
Into the early 1900s, women’s swimming costumes were cumbersome, with high necks, long sleeves, skirts and pants. Often they were made of wool.
But as the century hit its stride, necklines lowered and arms were uncovered. In response, seaside resorts published codes regulating the appearance of swimming costumes, especially the length of the skirts, in the interest of preserving modesty.
The one-piece swimming suit, brought to the public attention by swimmer, vaudeville and film star Annette Kellerman, was legally banned in parts of the U.S. In 1908 Kellerman was arrested for indecent exposure at Revere Beach, Boston, Massachusetts.
Chicago, Illinois - Two bathers being escorted off the beach by a police woman.
Sign posted by police department stating regulations for beach goers.
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