Bathing in the Fleet R
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Bathing in the Fleet R
Londoners bathing in the Fleet River : Here strip my Children, here at once leap in, Here prove who best can dash thro thick and thin
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4325347
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10036345
1720 Bathing Best Dash Leap Londoners Prove Strip Thick
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 18th century print, titled "Bathing in the Fleet R," offers a glimpse into the social history of London during a time when the city's waterways served as popular bathing spots for locals. The scene depicts a lively and bustling riverside, with Londoners of all ages and backgrounds stripping down and leaping into the Fleet River. The inscription at the bottom of the print reads, "Here strip my Children, here at once leap in, Here prove who best can dash thro' thick and thin," highlighting the playful and competitive spirit of the bathers. The print, which is believed to date back to circa 1720, provides a fascinating insight into the daily lives of Londoners during this era. The Fleet River, which once flowed through the heart of the city, was notorious for its filthy and polluted waters. However, despite the health risks, bathing in the river was a common practice among the working classes, who could not afford the luxury of a bathtub or a trip to a public bathhouse. The print also serves as a reminder of the importance of community and social connections in the past. Bathing in the Fleet River was not just a personal hygiene ritual, but also a communal activity that brought people together. The image of Londoners laughing, playing, and interacting with each other in the river reflects the strong sense of camaraderie and shared experience that existed in the city's working-class communities. Overall, "Bathing in the Fleet R" is a valuable historical document that offers a unique perspective on the social and cultural practices of 18th century London. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which people have adapted to their environments and created meaningful experiences out of seemingly mundane activities.
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