Dewi Lewis Publishing just released Susie Parr‘s latest book, the 192-page hardcover The Story of Swimming, filled with 180 photographs, paintings, woodcuts, cartoons & postcards.

The book describes the social history of British swimming, from the earliest references in Roman and Anglo Saxon literature to the decline of British seaside resorts and traditional bathing clubs in the late 20th century.

To no surprise who enjoy channel swimming, wild swimming and long-distance swimming, The Story of Swimming tells how medicinal sea-bathing of the 18th century, bathing at Victorian seaside resorts, and swimming across the British Isles has deep roots and a colorful history.

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