Bathing Machines

From Historical Hastings

Used to protect the modesty of Victorian bathers, these machines were wheeled down to the water's edge and permitted the bather, once changed, to descend some steps into the sea. By the 1920s, they were in decline and replaced by Bathing Huts. Out of season, they were removed from the beach to the Central Cricket Ground[1].

Known Locations and Operators

Cobby's bathing machines were at the Marine Parade, Caroline Place, Hastings; Dunn's, at the comer of Carlisle Parade; Robinson and Oliver's, Eversfield Place; and French's, at Marina St. Leonards", quoted a guide book of the period[2] the Cobby's firm being established by Mrs. Cobby and her sons in 1848[3]

References & Notes

  1. Hastings & St Leonards Observer 07 June 1879 pg. 6
  2. Hastings, past and present (Mary Matilda Howard) pg. 317-318 Google Books
  3. Brett Manuscript Histories Vol. 3 Chap. 40