Tidal Basin Beach Officially Opens

Title: Tidal Basin Beach Officially Opens
Date: 8/24/1918
Description: Even before the Tidal Basin was constructed, planners proposed to use it as a recreational bathing beach. On August 24, 1918, the Tidal Basin bathing beach officially opened with a water carnival. Diving competitions, swimming competitions, and canoe tilting contests were all held for men and women. The beach remained open until the mid-1920s, when it closed due to pollution.
Source: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. View original.
Coverage: 1890-1919
Event Type: Openings and Dedications