R.D.Blumenfeld on English Girls

Sunday, June 26, 1887

The river was crowded with rowing boats and punts, and for long distances the banks were lined with houseboats blooming with flowers. The house-boats appear to be the special summer resort of the well-to-do, who live on them throughout the summer. What struck me particularly was the athletic prowess of so many young women, who were astonishingly adept at rowing and punting, and seemed to be quite capable of handling their boats as well as the men. That I take it is the reason why English girls are so fresh complexioned and free in their movements. It is a fact that you see fewer white-lipped and waxed-cheeked girls than anywhere else, in spite of tight-lacing, which is as prevalent here as in France or the United States. But the women play tennis and go for long walks. They are not restricted by convention as in other countries.

Calisthenics for Ladies

CALISTHENICS FOR LADIES

Yes, my sterling work in digitising Cassells results in, finally, another completed section of this marvellous part-work, where we learn that "helplessness and inactivity are no longer looked upon as feminine virtues" and that "As soon as women experience the benefits of physical education a general desire arises to share in its advantages, among which we may reckon a sense of power of action, an increased cheerfulness, and general vigour". Hurrah for general vigour! I could do with some myself. Interesting for its mention of women's gyms - I didn't know there were such places in the 1880s. Also, rather marvellous for its instructive pictures. Click here to read Calisthenics for Ladies in full.