Although the frequency of females being present can be debated, this photograph suggests that if such a scene could take place in public, then in at least some of these institutions, sisters and coed students may indeed have been allowed to be in the pool areas while the boys swam and competed naked, as well as providing some evidence that female instructors may have taught the boys their swim lessons in some cases. It also should be considered when debates emerge about whether during the early 20th century females were allowed in the pool areas when public schools or boys associations conducted swim classes for the boys while requiring all boys to be nude. This provides indisputable proof that in many communities, not only was it standard that all boys swam and played completely nude, but that it was also not uncommon for girls of their age (although clothed) to swim and play with them. As can be seen, every boy is completely naked whereas the girls wear their bathing costumes. The age of the boys appear to range from about 8 through 13, and the two girls present appear to be a bit older. In it we observe 17 boys and girls frolicking in a river as they are watched by family and friends. Vintage Photo - Early 20th Century (Click on photo to enlarge)The photo to the left is of unknown origin, probably taken in the late Edwardian period.
