splashingthroughhistory

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Allan Grant, 1958-05

People watching a miniature boat race in a swimming pool.

From the: LIFE Photo Collection

This large group of people, from various ages and genders, have assembled into an individual’s backyard to watch a boat race. They all appear to be very interested, and some are even dressed for the cause, sporting sailers uniforms and hats. This whimsical image depicts the importance and joy these people derive from something as simple as boat racing, highlighting the relevance of this water based activity in their lives.

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Photographer unknown, 1950/1960

Caught fish on board of the Sea Fisheries Division (Hollandia) trawler 'De Goede Hoop'

From the: LIFE Photo Collection

Water not only plays an important role in recreation, but is also a source of nutrition and income for many individuals. Pictured here are two fisherman, who have caught a large net of fish, and are preparing to bring it back to shore. The fish caught in this photograph would have provided these men with some sort of income, whether it is the fish themselves or a stipend.

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This image shows the importance of water as a means of survival. The Marine drinking water, to replenish his thirst, something that is essential to life and is not always available. Many places around the world are suffering from drought, leaving their people thirsty, unhappy, and hungry; as they are unable to water their produce, or manufacture goods.

Photographer W. Eugene Smith’s picture of a Marine drinking from his canteen during 1944’s Battle of Saipan is as iconic a war picture as any ever made. In fact, when the U.S. Postal Service released a “Masters of American Photography” series of commemorative stamps in 2002, Smith was included — and this image was chosen as representative of his body of work.

See more photos here.

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Fox Photos, 1939-09-03 Blissful Ignorance

3rd September 1939: Children play in a paddling pool on Brighton, Sussex sea front on the day Britain declared war on Germany in WW II. (Photo by Fox Photos/Getty Images)

From the collection of: Getty Images

This image shows us that water is not always a serious affair; these children most likely were looking forward to going to the Paddling Pool, or have been visiting it all summer long. This Paddling Pool appears to be a social venue, where many of these people have attended the pool to meet with friends and family, and socialize; some may have even created new friendships.

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Ralph Crane, 1966-12

German pointer "Bellybutton" diving for a rubber bone in swimming pool. Reseda, CA, US

From the: LIFE Photo Collection

Dogs, a common additional family member deserve to enjoy water as well. Pictured here is a dog diving for its bone, assuming that the owner threw it into the pool, to exercise and bond with their pooch. This image is included despite the lack of human presence, since dogs are often an extension of ourselves and our families.

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Swimming, often glamorized by celebrities is depicted in this photograph with the Beetles. This image provides an example of the importance of pop-culture in society, especially during the 50s and 60s, with the rise of the television and photography. Many people, seeing this image, would feel more inclined to travel to their local pool, or would be dragged along by their daughters and sons.

John Loengard, who photographed the Beatles in a Florida swimming pool 50 years ago this month, shares the story of making the famous picture—and explains why he doesn’t really like the photo all that much. (Photo: John Loengard—Time & Life Pictures/Getty Images)

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Another example of prestige through swimming, the 1948 London Olympics, also gives a look at people who have dedicated their lives to mastering their abilities in water, and the spectator sport that the Olympics have become.

Not originally published in LIFE. Swimming, London Olympics, 1948.

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Water sports can be seen as aggressive. This photo shows the graceful, delicate and rhythmic art of sports such as synchronized swimming, and “aqua musicals.”

Esther Williams, the swimming champion who became the star of MGM’s “aqua musicals” in the 1940s and 1950s, has died at 91.

Here, a look back at her glamorous career. (with never-before-seen LIFE images)

(Edward Clark—Time & Life Pictures/Getty Images)

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Amongst those who live by the seaside, many are immersed in swimming lessons at a very young age. It is also known that children demonstrate an innate ability to “swim” or hold their breath underwater. This image depicts the connection people have with water from birth, however many loose this relationship as they grow older.

The “world’s youngest swimmer,” 9-week-old Julie Sheldon, cruises underwater next to her grandmother, Mrs. Jen Loven, a children’s swimming instructor in 1954 Los Angeles. (Ed Clark—The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images) #1950s #fbf

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These men are fishing as a means of relaxation and as a friendly gathering between friends. It is of stark contrast to the image seen in the beginning of the exhibition depicting men fishing as a means of survival.  

70 years ago, Screen legend and war veteran appeared on the cover of LIFE magazine on September 24, 1945. The story: “LIFE comes home with Jimmy Stewart: A movie star who became a war hero visits his home town of Indiana , Pa. before getting Army discharge. He is pictured here fishing on a small lake for bass with his old friend Clyde Woodward. (Peter Stackpole—The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images) #thisweekinLIFE #LIFElegends