n'nM'.'^vrv' ryr: 06 •U'ff i;yftw>;pwwi < i |i» ip ,|ri |i Hft»it i !ftfmB JHimuumj. '*Ol^A ; r; jvtf 34»}»j»atwflVj)R«!*A»>;jv ^IxIFE^ IT TOE gU PRINCETON, N. J. : McdTNNERS AND RUNYAN. 7r COPYRIGHT. WM. C. ULYAT. 1880. CONTENTS. PAGE Preface 5 Chapter 1. Attractions and Benelits, generally, of tlie Sea Shore. 7 ** 2. Visits to, and Residence on the Shore, . . .11 Sec. 1. Transient Excursions to the Sea Side. . . 11 " 2. Tenting ou the Beach. . . . . .12 " 3. A Cottage by the Sea. -14 " 4. Commercial Cities near the Coast, . . .18 " 5. Fishing Towns 19 * ' 6. Sea Side Resorts, proper. . , , . .20 " 7. Public Accommodations at the Sea Shore. , . 22 ** 3. Special Provisions necessary for a Sojourn. . . 24 *' 4. Bathing in Sea Water 26 Sec. 1. Benefits of Bathing in Sea Water. , . .26 " 2. Persons injured or endangered by Sea Bathing. 28 " 3. Surf and Still Water Bathing 29 " 4. Open Sea and House Bathing. — Hot and Cold Baths • . . 80 " 5. Danger of Open Sea and Solitary Bathing . . 32 " 6. Resuscitating the apparently drowned. . . 83 *' 7. The Art of Swimmimg, as an adjunct. . . 37 " 8. Bathing Costume. ...... 39 " 9. When to enter, and how long to remain in the water. ........ 40 " 10. Some Accompaniments and folio wings of a Bath 42 *' 5. Amusements at the Sea Shore 44 Sec. 1, Sailing 44 " 2, Rowing 46 " 3. Fishing , . 47 ** 4. Gunning. ........ 48 " 5. Miscellaneous. ...,,,. 49 3 Sec. 7. Sec. i V- CONTENTS. Chapter 6. The Air of the Sea Shor(\ . 1. The Air itself. . 2. Sea Fogs. . 3. Storms and Tempest. . 4. Land and Sea Breezes. 5. The Inhabitants of the Air. The Water of the Sea. 1. The Water itself. " 2. The Waves. " 3. Tides. . . . . " 4. Animal Life in the Sea. " 5. Sea Weeds. 8. The Land of the Sea Shore. Sec. 1. Coast Lines. . ... " 2. Sandy Shores. " 3. Rocky Shores. " 4. Sea Shells and other debris " 5. Vegetation at the Sea Side 9. Exposure of life and property venting loss. . 10. Poetry of the Sea and Shore 11. Where to go. . 12. North Eastern Maine to South Western N Sec. 1. Coast of Maine. . " 2. Coast of New Hampshire. " 3, Coast of Massachusetts. 1. Boston to New Hampshire State 1 2. Boston to Rhode Island State line. 3. Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket " 4. Coast of Rhode Island. " 5. Coast of Connecticut. . *' 6. Coast of New York. . 1. Westchester County. 2. Long Island, (1) North Shore, (2) South Shore, (3) East End. . " 7. New Jersey. 13. "When it is well with tliee, think on Charity at the Sea Side. 14. Supplement to Chapter Twelve — Means PAGE . 51 . 51 . 53 . 54 . 55 . 56 . 57 . 57 . 60 for pre- \v Jersey. 65 67 70 70 71 72 73 74 75 79 104 106 106 113 114 115 117 123 126 129 132 132 133 143 160 164 ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGE 1. The Sea 9 2. Tenting 13 3. Cottage by the iSea 15 4. Surf Bathing 29 5. Yachting 45 6. Shooting Wild Ducks 48 7. High Tide at Squan Beach 63 8. Lighthouse and Sea View 76 9. Eventide at the Sea Side 103 10. Sunset on the Beach at Cape May 158 11. Childrens' Home, Atlantic City 161 12. Women's Home, Asbury Park 162 PREFACE. Of late years, the American people have had their atten- tion directed largely to the sea coast, as a place of summer resort ; and even as a place of permanent residence. From the cities and the interior country, they have flocked thither in great numbers. Every succeeding year, the sea shore seems becoming more popular with us. In this, we are fol- lowing a natural drift, as indicated by its being the estabUshed custom and tendency of the people of other countries and of all past ages. For bodily health and recreation, and for mental invigoration, sea air, sea bathing, sea scenery and sea entertainments are invaluable. Their pleasures and advan- tages are peculiar and satisfying. A work, therefore, which contains, in condensed outline, much and varied information and suggestion, with reference to life on the sea shore, seems demanded and is herewith presented to the pubhc. LIFE AT THE SEA SHOllE. CHAPTER I. ATTRACTIONS AND BENEFITS GENERALLY OF THE SEA SHORE. So MANY, in cm' time, are making the sea shore their per- petual residence, and so many more are spending the whole, or a part, of every summer upon it, it becomes a natural en- quiry, and the first,— What is there at the shore that renders it so attractive? One thing, and the chief with many, is its Healthfulness. Where the water is good, and there is no marsh breeding malaria, there is no more healthy place, for some persons and constitutions, and individuals afflicted with particular diseases, to live at, or visit. The air, the bathing, the unique and charming scenery, the amusements and novelties, combine to exhilarate the spirits, drive off disease, and give tone to the system. Some constitutions and diseases may require a choice of sea side locality and a gradual introduction; so strong and rapid is the action of the air and water. This can readHy be provided for. There is no person or state but that the coast, somewhere, will benefit. Another attraction of the sea shore, independent of its effect upon the health, is the Scenery. It is not only new and peculiar, to those who Uve in the interior, but men never tire of it. Sail and steam vessels, more or less numerous, and of 8 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. all sizes and characters: as Ships, Barques, Brigs, Schooners, Sloops and Yachts, some of them government vessels, men of war or revenue cutters, others merchantmen or in the passenger traffic, fishing smacks and pilot boats ; some swift clippers, others lumbering jimks ; some outward, others homeward bound ; coasters or distant voyagers, fiU the eye and excite the imagination pleasantly, as they sail gaily on, constantly shifting their place, or as they battle with adverse wind and tempest. There are few things that afford, for the time being, more pleasure than the sight of a ship under fuU sail. Huge porpoises tumbling through the waters, sea gulls, flapping and cooing, the sun rising out of the water or setting on it, the waves descending and mounting upwards, tossing the sea craft ; or at night the distant, or near, perhaps numerous, lighthouses, and the lights of vessels on their voyages, are rich with suggestions, and memories of the past. The coming in of the tide with its often fierce rush and floating treasures, its flotsam and jetsam as these were called in the old maritime codes, and the tempest, occasionally minghng sea and sky, fill the mind with awe and wonder. Another attraction of the sea shore is its Sounds. The moan of the sea, preceding a storm, the surf, thundering in its constant breaking on the shore, swells the soul of the Hstener with emotions of pathos and sublimity and awe. A further attraction of the sea shore is its Amusements. Some of them are peculiai', at least to those who live afar from any water coiu'se or lake. Such amusements are rowing, sailing, fishing, bathing. These may not be always practic- able on the open sea. But on most coasts there are sheltered bays, and creeks, where they can be enjoyed. l\\e_^Bopulurity of the shore fuiiher augments its attract- iveness. There is no lack of society there. Everybody goes to the shore ; all nationalities, all ranks, and professions, I and occupations. There, are the cultivated and refined, the wealthy, youth and beauty, the matui'e, the gay and fashion- able, the retired and quiet. 10 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. Still another attraction may be the peculiar Mistoricd __AssQciaiiQns-oi a place. The fact of the wreck of argosies on the coast, the passage near by, for generations, of swift ships, peaceful raerchantmen, or men of war, — that on its strand once crowded, perhaps, the redman — that opposite, may have been fought some great naval battle — that happy crowds of the present generation have wandered there, or that the spot has been embalmed in poetry, history, or on canvas, attracts men according to their tastes. "He who has not seen the Mediterranean," said Dr. Samuel Johnson, " is only half educated, and has missed, thus far, one of the greatest pleasures of life." The reason of this he found in the historical associations, which clustered on its shores. Commerce, with foreign nations, or the fisheries, attracts multitudes to the seashores. But this is a matter of the sea- side cities, and of business, which does not concern tis here. The testimony of Dr. Prime, of the New York Observer, 'v\Titten after he had just been spending one of his summer vacations on Mount Desert, in Maine, is to the point here : ' ' The ocean is a perpetual joy to one who stays on shore. Its voice is a great psalm. Its heaving bosom is ever new in its many charms. How deep ! and what wealth of mystery in its depths ! One never tires of thinking about the sea ; and so to live upon its borders, in the full enjoyment of its sight and sound, is a study, an improvement, a solace and delight." CHAPTER II. TRANSIENT VISITS, AND SUMMER AND PERMANENT RESIDENCE ON THE SEA SHORE. Section 1. Excursions to the Sea Side. From the large cities, and from farming districts and villages, near tiie sea, and from the far interior, .capable of being reached by rail cars, or steamboats, excursions, for a day, or even several days, to the sea shore have become com- mon and popular. One da}' spent at the sea side is a great and lasting benefit, in the cheer given to the spirits, the new ideas that are obtained, aad in the memories that spring uj), in all after life. Families and combinations of families, neighborhoods and combinations of neighborhoods, chui'ches, schools, and societies, every year make these excui'sions. Raih'oads, or steamboat, or hotel companies, or officials, or private specu- lator, or individuals selected from among themselves, make all the necessary arrangements: relieving individuals of all care. Provision is usually found in abundance on the ground for a price. But parties may, if they choose, carry their owa baskets, and resolve themselves into a pic-nic. At some sea side resorts, there are special excui'sion houses. A bathing suit, an opera glass, a guide book, and perhaps a little extra clothing, it may be desirable for some to carry with them. Large exciu'sion parties are very liable to experience 11 12 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. delays, on the passage to and fro. To invalids and children esiDecially, this may prove very tiresome. Those in charge should study to prevent this; and those liable to be subjected to the annoyance should provide for it before leaving home^ and what alleviation they can, in the time of it, in good cheer. These excui'sions afford home society, and an opportunity of visiting the shore at a minimum of expense; and so are desirable over solitary visitation: Section 2. Tenting on the Beach. Where there are no public houses, or cottages, tenting out is the only j)racticable mode of S23ending more than one day on the beach. It is an independent, and may be an econo- mical, and pleasant way. Considerable expense and trouble, and discomfort, however, and disaster even, may attend. A storm, for example, will spoil the delights of the situation, and distance and luxurious tables may make it expensive and uncomfortable. Parties preferring to camp out by themselves may, in some places, find many conveniences on the ground therefor. But if it is intended to follow uj) the practice, year after year, unless transportation is too troublesome and expensive, it wiU be better to provide one's own tent and other neces- sary things. Possibly a tent, with other conveniences, might be stored somewhere near by, ready for the next season. This would be a gain. Choice of place is most important. The open sands are too much exposed. The shadow of a bluff, or hill, is perhaps the best. The edge of a piece of woods would be most favorable, except perhaps in a thunder storm. A supply of good water near by, should be certain. For farmers, or persons owning a team, it might be de- sirable to go with one. Transportation would thus be re- duced to a minimum. For a small family, the wagon might answer, at least in pai*t, in place of a tent. The chief difficulty LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 13 would be, providing for the feeding, and shelter of the team, unless there were some available stables, or farm estabhsh- ment near by. A team will be convenient as affording amuse- ment during the stay. Camping out should not be undertaken without sufficient provision for protection and comfort. Storms and marauders must be provided against; and the women, children, invalids, ^^^^^^^^©fCSS^/^Vrove^.C^o TEKT LIFE, and weakly persons properly cared for. A goodly and con- genial society should go together. There are so many things necessary to make camp life enjoyable, which it will be a work to gather and convey, that to niost persons it will appear, probably too troublesome, and expensive. But to those who may be disposed to try it. 14: LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. "we will give a few hints, as to what it may be desirable to provide. Besides a tent of sufficient size, it will be necessary to carry such things as are needful for food supply, sleeping, protection fi'om the ground and weather, sitting down, the toilet, amusement and sickness. For a fire for cooking, it will be best to take two crotch sticks, and a cross piece, and a chain, or rope, and hook. Fuel ought to be obtained, for the gathering, on the beach. Some matches will be essential. A pot, flying pan, and kettle, and pans for making and baking bread, and a Dutch oven, wiU complete this part of the outfit. A coff'ee or tea pot, some plates and cups, knives and forks, and spoons, dishes, and a pitcher or two, and a table cloth, is all that will be needful for the table. Provisions may be taken according to taste. As far as possible, it will be desirable to cook them before hand. Bread, butter, potatoes, coftee or tea, sugar, ham or tongue, eggs, cake, rice, biscuits, fruit, oatmeal, j)epper, salt, floui', and baking powder should be taken. Fish and milk ought to be obtained on the shore. Boards, with something to prop them up, may answer for a table; and the same, or camp stools, for seats. Pails, wash bowl, soaj), looking glass, washing and dish towels will be necessary. Beds and bedding, and boards to raise them from the ground, some reading matter, games, and possibly some simple medicines, extra clothing and bathing suits will also be needed.' With them, and good society, a few days may possibly be sj^ent very comfoi-tably, in tenting on the beach. Section 3. A Cottage by the Sea. Those who desire that theii' families shoiild live on the sea shore, or even ordy spend their summers there, will find it more economical, and in some respects pleasanter, to rent, fiu-nished or unfurnished, or buy, or build for them- selves, a house. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE 15 If business can be vacated for a while, it need not cost much more, to leave the city, and stay a few months in one's own cottage, on the shore, than it would to remain in the city. The additional cost will consist in rent, and in travel to and fro. And this may be balanced, by cheaper living, and clothing; and the saving possibly of a bill for doctor, and nurse, and dinigs, and by time gained for school and business, through increased health and energy. Families can make their sojom^n at the shore, in their own cottage, cost what they choose, little or much. "Where it is not desii'6d to spend COTTAGE BY THE SEA. the whole summer on the shore, two or three families might combine, and go thither, at different times of the season, to the same house, and so the expense might be lessened some- what, and convenience subserved. Cottages, furnished or unfurnished, may generally be rented, at most of the popular sea side resorts, for the whole, or jDart, of a year. Sometimes, owners of cottages do not wish, certain seasons, to occupy them themselves; desiring to stay at home, or go elsewhere. Cottages are built, too, for the express purpose of renting them ; some of which may 16 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. be furnislied. Renting is attended witli less care and risk; but it is more dependent, and may be most expensive. Or, a cottiige on the shore may, at any time, anywhere, be bought. Tiiere are men who build them for sale, or will build them to order. An extravagant price, over cost, need not be paid. Or, if a person desire to build a sea side cottage for him- seK, he may readily do so, with little risk, and at small expense of time. Fu'st: lots may be obtained in any place desired. There is, as yet, a large unoccupied area, on the shore. The price of a lot will vary with the place, and the location, also with the size and character of the lot. In choosing a site for a cottage, convenience to home, healthful- ness, and the gratification of taste, should be considered. Special regard should be had to the water of any proposed place, its freedom from malaria, and the jDrovisions for the removal of S' werage. In building a house, if time cannot be spared for much personal supervision, or if a person is unr.rjed to the art of building, a reliable builder, and pos- sibly a supervising architect, can, and must, be employed. The expense will not be increased, or only a little, and it will pay to incur it. A house may cost any amount desired, according to size, style, and finish. It will probably be best to build of wood. A ceUar is desirable, but may be dispensed with, if only a refrigerator is had, and ice can be readily obtained. If the cottage is designed only for a smiimer residence, one chimney ma}- be sufficient, and that need be no more than a fine. Instead of lath and plaster, felted paper may be used, though this latter is not so good and costs nearly as much. If this is used it may be covered with wall- paper, and strips of wood. This is cheapening a cottage. One, convenient, respectable, and large enough for a con- siderable family, without any unnecessary adjmicts, not counting the lot, and outside buildings, fence, etc., may in this way be built for less than $1,000. In building a house. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. iT be sui'e to have a lire-j)lace, and piazzas for two stories, and look well to sewerage. Have the latter to youi'self. A very large lot is scarcely desii'able: for it cannot ordin- arily be utilized, and will require care, and expense, to fence and keep it in order. But little improvement, besides the cottage, and a fence, is needed at the sea shore. The season of occupation is usually too short for a garden. A cistern, with a filtering arrangement, may supply all the water, making a well unnecessary. But Httle in the way of out- houses is necessary. A wash and fuel house, and a hennery, will be useful. A stable and carriage house, with a hay loft, and convenience for storing feed, is desirable only where it can be easily afforded. All the heavy, and common, furniture of the house, should be stationary; whether rented or owned. Costly furniture is not desirable. Matting, bedsteads, bui'eaus, w^ashstands, chairs, niattrasses, tables, mirrors, lounges, a stove, if there is no range, with some crockery, cooking and washing uten- sils, and a few minor things, of comparatively little value, should go with the house. Small common things may be boxed up, during the winter, and left in the house. Light things, and articles of condensed value, should be taken back to the city, whether persons intend to retui-n or not, the next summer ; or if duplicates exist for use at the winter home or can be afforded, they may be stored in some place, of gTeater safety than an unoccupied house. Cottages, vacated dui'ing the winter months, must be left in charge of some one, who will air them occasionally, and protect them against intruders. Some one may possibly be obtained to live in them. Or what is more feasible, and economical, a person may be employed to look after one in common with other like cottages. Where a cottage is un- occupied, the windows should be boarded. When, during any season, a party who owns a house does not wish to occupy it, they can probably readily rent it, for 18 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. a good rate of interest, making it possibly, even in a pecu- niary light, one of their best investments. Cottages by the sea, owned by those occupying them, or cottages for rent, in connection with hotels, or separate, and which may be had, in some places, by the month, or season, or the year round, are becoming more and more popular. Persons from the near, and more distant cities, and from all parts of the country, own them. In some places, it has been long so. At Brighton, on the English coast, in Sussex county, it has been so, for over a centmy. That place received its first impulse, from a work of Dr. Richard Riissel, on "the uses of sea water." It now extends three miles along the water front, contains 100,000 inhabitants, and has theatres, and hospitals, a college, ocean piers, and every species of bathing establishment. George the Foui'th, when he was Prince of Wales, made it his residence, and contributed greatly towards making tbe place fashionable. On the Medi- terranean, the Coast of Liguria, for thirty-seven miles, is covered with towns, and viUas; extending from Lavonia on one side to Genoa, thirteen miles, and fi'om Genoa, twenty- four miles, to Chiavori, on the other side. In the United States, the whole Atlantic coast, from Momit Desert, in Maine, to Cape May, New Jersey, is dotted with summer cottages, and public resorts. The passion for a home on the sea, at least a part of the year, is deep, and seems likely to be abiding. Section 4:. — Commercial Cities near the Coad. Large cities are not summer resorts, but trading marts, or manufacturing centres. The largest are on the water, either bays or arms of the sea, or up the rivers, or on lakes connecting with the seaboard by canals. They are the me- dium of commimication with, and between, the interior and foreign countries. The mass of men live in these cities. There are great cities in the interior cut off from all com- LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 19 munication with sea, lake, canal or river. Such, cities are Manchester in England, Moscow in Russia, and Jeiiisalem in Palestine. They are comparatively few and small. Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, Vienna, Constantinople, Calcutta, Bombay, Canton, Portland, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Charleston, Savannah, Mobile, New Orleans, Galveston, and San Francisco, are all on, or near, the sea. The greatest cities of the interior, both of Europe, and of the United States, are on lakes, or rivers, or canals. In our own country, Buffalo, Cleveland, Detroit, and Chicago, are on lakes. Hartford, Albany, St. Paul, St. Louis, Louis- ville, Cincinnati, Nashville, and Richmond, are on rivers. S}^'acuse, Utica, and Rochester, are on a canal. Water is the common element on which they all sit, and mostty salt water. The cities by the sea, throughout the world, employ a million of sailors, and own a quarter of a million of vessels that go to sea. They are thick with inhabitants, such is the popularity and importance of the seaside. The inhabitants of those cities, however, are not content to live in them duiing the summer. They seek the country. They overflow into the rural regions or on the coasts. The near bycities are the great feeders of the rural shores. These cities are on, or near, the sea; but they are not sea side resorts. These latter places are of another character. Section 5. — Fishing Toivns by the Sea. There are towns on all coasts that are largely built up by sea fishing. Whale, cod, mackerel, and herring fishing have produced such. New London and Stoning-ton in Connecti- cut, Sag Harbor and Greenport on Long Island, New Bed- ford and Nantucket in Massachusetts, were founded out of whale fishing. Yarmouth, England, is a large fishing town, the foundation of which was the herring fisheries. Glouces- ter, Massachusetts, is prominent as a fishing town, the chief support being cod and mackerel fishing. But these places 20 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. are not chosen as summer resorts, however convenient and attractive they may be. Section 6. — Sea Side Resorts proper. Not every place on the shore is litted to be a resort. It may be too low, the bathing may not be good, it is perhaps inconvenient of acccess, or it is malarious, or a large city or fishing village may be there. But wherever a coast is good and accessible to large cities, a great and wealthy population, and to the interior, it is dotted, more or less, with resorts; principally for the summer. The tendency is for these to increase. They are common, on the shores of Great Britain, Europe, and the United States. Some of these have become large and fashionable centres. Others, as yet, are small; only just commencing their career. These places are mostly summer residences of wealthy men, or of invalids seeking health, or of citizens, who have been confined for many months to city aii*, and scenes, and business, and who desu'e for a season relaxation, fi-eedom, and recreation. Their sojourn is usually short, two or thi-ee weeks, or at most, perhaps, a couple of months, covering July and August. There is a tendency, however, springing up, to extend the time. Many now send their famihes, ear- lier than has been common in years past, and allow them to remain longer. This is especially the case in places measur- ably built up, where there are chui'ches and society. It is healthier, and m.ay be more economical, to leave the city, and live aU summer by the sea side. There is a growing disposition to make the sea side a winter as weU as a summer home; and so for these resorts to become large towns, and cities even. First there is needed a considerable population to take care of property, used only during the summer months, and needing to be repaired, and painted, for another season. New cottages and buildings, also, are to be erected. Many, at these LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 21 places, live by catering to summer residents; and when they are gone they are able, aud prefer, to remain, and take care of their own. property. More and more men and families, too every year, where a resort has good schools and churches, and sufficient agreeable society, and is near to a city, or a person's place of business, and where it is readily accessible by boat or rail, are making it their principal residence, aU the year round. The famihes may make excursions to, or a temporary residence in, the city, during the winter, as men do to and in the coimtry, in summer time. But the sea shore is their home. The head of the family goes to, and comes from, his business, perhaps, daily. Others, perhaps, having retired from business, or their business being of a nature that allows it, make these places their constant home, as weU as that of their families. There are many good reasons why men, where they can, should remove theii' families from cities, and centres of business, and to the sea shore, and themselves retire thither, at night, when they cannot stay, during the day. It is good for some to escape the expense of city life, and to flee its dissipations, temptations, and foUies. Some may prefer a rural village, in the back country, or retired farm, for this purpose. But the sea side has so many things to commend it to the attention of men, that it is coming to be preferred. The temperature there is not only lower in summer, but it is higher in winter, than places in the interior, of correspond- ing latitude. For weakly children, and invalids, it is the most desirable spot they can be at. Snows are light on the sea board, and seldom abide long on the ground. The soil, being generally of a porous nature, soon dries up, and the roads are almost always good. The air is dryer and purer than in the interior; the temperatui'e more equable; and the climate more agreeable. Vegetation at the sea shore springs up earher and lasts longer than it does elsewhere. Asbury 22 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. Park and Atlantic City, in New Jersey, have both, now, a con- siderable population, which is there the whole year round. Thus far, the places established as resorts for health and pleasure have not been turned into places of manu- factures. They have been kept sacred to health, recreation, and repose. The business that has been done in them has been only such as is necessary for the inhabitants. But the time will come when some of them at least wiU carry on not only a large trade with the adjacent back country, but when the hum of the factory will be heard in them. This may be wise, or necessary, and perhaps not objectionable. When the latter is the case, summer visitors, aud persons seeking greater quiet, will only be turned to other places, near by or more distant, and of a different character. Section 7. Public Accommodations at the Sea Shore. Hotels and boarding houses, of all sizes and character, summer and winter, kept on both the European and Amer- ican plans, are common at the sea side. These are not always as substantially built, and as fine, as in cities, and where they are used permanently ; and, in some places, they do not and cannot on account of their seclusion afford all the luxuries attainable elsewhere. They are, however, comfoi*t- able notwithstanding, and some of them unexceptionably so : and their lack, -if any there be, is compensated, by advan- tages not to be found in the cities or interior. Charges are about the same, as at other summer resorts and in the cities, in the case of houses of like grade. Where houses are open for the public, only part of a year, it must be expected that the charges will be higher than Avliere they are open all the year round. The same rent has to be paid for three months' use, as for twelve, and other exj^enses are large in proportion. To those who desire rest, and home comforts, who are averse to bustle and fashionable society, quiet houses and farm homes are generally available. For invalids and some LIFE AT THE SEA fcHURE. 23 constitutions sucii houses, which may be an easy ride or walk back from the shore, are most desirable. Physicians are usually at hand. It may be that there are resident physicians, acquainted with ah the diseases and needs of the locality. Where this is not the case, there are commonly physicians present, on their summer vacation : or there professionally. Ordinarily a physician wdll not be needed by visitors. Accidents, however, may occur, needing' the skill of one : and invalids may require their attention. Parties going to the sea shore, on a sojourn, should consult their family physician, where there is reason to anticii^ate disease and trouble : and jDerhapstake wdth them a few simple medicines, suited to their constitution and state, and to the character of the place whither they go. TelegTaph, and Post, Offices, and News Stands, Livery Sta- bles, Yachts and Kow Boats, Bath Houses and Dresses, and other conveniences and accommodations, are more or less common at all established sea side resorts. Also churches or preaching on the Sabbath. CHAPTER in. SPECIAL PROVISIONS NECESSAHY. The first sjDecial jDrovision to be made for a coast visit er sea water l:)ath- ing, will make other medicinal remedies, both internal and external, altogether or partially unnecessary, in most persons and cases. 28 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. Section 2. Permns injured hy Bathing. Persons are seldom injured by bathing. Wliere it is done, it is often tlie result of imprudence, ratlier than of necessity. Still there are certain constitutions, and states of the system which endanger bathers. Every man's family physician should, therefore, be consulted, as to the propriety or impropriety of using the open sea bath; or great care should be exercised, as to the kind of sea bath used, and the time of entering and remaining in it. Very aged, and delicate persons, women and children, and those affected with heart disease, or of apoplectic tendency or liable to disease of any of the great blood vessels, or subject to brain difficulties ; persons suffering from any acute disease or orf^-auic affection ; those much debilitated, women in cer- tain stages, those in whom reaction, — the return of the blood to the surface, after having been driven violently in on the centres, by entering the cold plunge bath, — and in whom the healthy glow, which ought to follow, does not take place rap- idly, perhaps not for several hours, persons in whom fullness in the head supervenes on the use of the bath, and those who, as is frequently the case with women and children, are full of fear, had better if not wholly abstain from the use of the bath, use it sparingly and cautiously. In no way, is the blood di'iven in upon the internal organs, with so much force and suddenness, as in one's becoming incased in cold water. By indulging in the bath, the nervous system may in some cases experience too severe a shock, and even death may ensue. Such need not be deprived altogether, however, of sea water bathing. The tepid, warm, or hot water bath, or the hip and sponge bath, may be used, perhaps, with benefit. And it may be that, without risk or danger, some of these persons may bathe in the open sea, if only they approach gradually, when the water is at its warmest, and stay in the bath for a brief time only. But if the bath of the oj)en sea must be abstained from, LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 29 out of necessity, or if it is clone by choice, the sea shore may still be, to those thus affected, the best of all tonics. The bath of the sea air, day and night, and the bath of the sun, in constant strolls on tlie beach, and sitting on the sands, with good company or reading and contemplating the grand- eur of the ocean, and the beauties of the scenery around, is quite equal in benefit to the open sea water bath, when the pores otherwise are kept open. By some, it is thought even superior. Section 3. Surf and StiJl Wo.fpr Bathing. Siirf bathing, where it is not dangerous, nor is feared, and in the case of persons strong enough to battle with it, is the SURF BATHING. most desh-able. It occasions greater exercise, and is more exhilarating and healthgiving. 30 LIFE AT THE SEA iSHORE. Where persons are weakly or timid, or the sxirf is danger- ous, and generally speaking by persons unaccustomed to the water, and especially by all women and children, still water is to be preferred, at least at first- The surf seems colder than still water, occasioned by the constant rush of fi'esli cold water over the body from the sea. These are not always found in combination, at seaside resorts. But they are, very fi'equently. That resort which affords both, other things being equal, is to be sought. Into neither suri nor still water should a woman or a child be forced. It is not necessary to bathe in the open sea, and any attempt to force it is not only cruel to the feelings, but may prove hurtful to the system. Section 4. Open Sea and House Bathing. Mot and Cold Baths. Open sea bathing is to be preferred. It is better, in a sanitary point of view, than is house bathing ; and it is more economical. The weather, however, sometimes interferes with it, and some persons are too weak physically, or are too sensitive to public gaze to undergo it ; while there are those who may be specially endangered thereby. For such as cannot enjoy the open sea bath, and for all in stormy weather, constructed baths, in which fresh sea water is introduced, afford the best opportunity for bathing. Per- sons may enjoy the bath in them with perfect safety, freedom from care, without exposure, at any hour, with access to all conveniences. The bath may be used here, also, without clothing, which is a more convenient and effective mode of bathing. Being under cover, the bather is protected from the sun, and his feet are saved from being hurt. Constructed baths were very common among the ancient Greeks and Romans, and the Orientals. They were built and used, not only for health but as places of public concoui'se, where friends might meet ; the news of the day be rehearsed ; and recitations be heard from poets, philosophers and rhetoricians. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 31 Emperors and great men constructed them. They were pat- ronized by all classes. Some of them were of immense size. Diocletian built one at Rome in which 18,000 persons could swim, at the same moment. Caracalla erected one 1,500 feet long and 1,250 feet wide. They were often elaborately fin- ished and adorned and were subject, to strictest regulations. In public constructed baths, the moderns, as yet, fall behind the ancients. In cities, famihes have their own private baths, which renders large public ones imnecessary. We have various kinds of baths — Russian, Roman, Turkish, hot and cold — and rude baths for the populace, in our large cities, where water is abundant. Few of these are used by the upper classes, however. At the seaside, until recently, bathers have chosen the open air and been contented there- with. Indeed they have had no other choice. But bathing- houses are now beginning to be erected, in connection with hotels, at the seaside, and as separate enterprises ; and the time is doubtless coming when, at all oiu' principal seaside resorts, they will become more abundant and surrounded with every comfort and luxui-y. Amid crowded populations they are a necessity. Those who become the pioneers in this enterprise may reap a foi-tune. The demand for bathing establishments becoming more and more imperative, places will be chosen for a sojourn hereafter, according as they have bathing houses and as the accommodations of these houses are. In bath houses bathers may take cold, tepid, warm or hot baths. These are to be chosen according to age, constitution, habits, state of the system or the end wished for. A cold bath ranges from 32" to 85", a tepid bath fi'om 85" to 92", a warm bath from 92" to 98", and a hot bath fi'om 98" to 112", Fahrenheit. Cold baths are not borne well, usually, by very young childi-en or by aged persons. If children take them at all, the water should be only moderately cool, and the bath were 32 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. better taken in a warm room. Cliildi-en should remain in but a few moments, and be rubbed well afterwards with flannels. In entering the cold bath, a sense of chilliness creeps over the person ; and rigor of the body, blueness of the countenance, and deprivation of speech ensues. These usually soon pass away. If they do not, the bath should be left, and not entered again that day, where the same results, as is usually the case, are to be anticipated. The tepid or warm bath brings the blood to the sui'face. No shock attends it. The pulse is imaffected. Irritability is soothed. It relaxes, however, the system, and renders it more sensitive to colds. Its best effects are experienced after ex- citement, fatigue or long exercise. The hot bath quickens the pulse, increases the action of the heart, causes the head to suffer somewhat, augments the secretion of urine, promotes perspiration and causes the limbs to swell. It should be aj)proached gTaduaUy, A chief service of the hot bath is found, in the management of strang- ulated hernia and in reducing dislocations. It is stimulating and in some cases is an effective tonic. Tepid, w^arm and hot baths should not be continued long, or indulged in frequently. The blood, in the former case, may become too heated. In either case, the system is debilitated. Persons affected with heart disease, or diseases of the great blood vessels, or of apoplectic tendency, are not endan- gered by the tepid, w^arm or hot water bath, as they are by cold water, warm air and vapor baths. Section 5. — Dangers of Open Sea and Solitary Bathing. A bather, not having taken proper advice and precaution, occasioned by the action of the water on a susceptible system, may be seized with apoplexy, or heart disease ; and if no one is near to help, he may be lost, in the waters ; or he may be seized with cramp, and without aid, will drown ; or he may LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 83 be carried out of his depth, by a ciuTeut, or unawares while floating simpl}", or borne out to sea b}^ the tide or a heavy surf or by the treacherous undertow, without being able to s^^dnl, or if able to swim, he may become exhausted and, without assistance, will drown ; or a shark or some medusae as the paper nautilus or argonaut which floats on the Avater and stings may suddenly appear, or quicksands or holes may be struck, with which he may be unable to wage single com- bat. A man not able to swim may become through the tide siuTounded ere he is aware with deep water. Persons, therefore, should never bathe in the open sea or in any deep water, alone. The}' should, also, acquaint them- selves with the character of the shore or bathing place, its special dangers, in itself and to them in 23articular, its possi- ble sudden descents and holes, take advice of the bathing- master, and heed it, observe the signals, keep near to the ropes and boats provided as aids in emergencies, and have a friend within sight and hearing. In certain localities, some people cannot be too cautious. It were well, if, at every sea side resort, a corps of men were kept to patrol the beach, sound its waters and place cautionary signals, carrying appliances, for rescuing and restoring the di'owning. They might be supported by the corporation of the town or by hotels and boarding houses, or private subscription. This is done in some localities, but not in all, or regularly. Section 6. Resuscitating the Apparently Drowned. Every one that lives near the water, or who visits it for a time, or lives or travels on it, should study the rules for re- suscitating the apparently di'owned, and familiarize them- selves, as far as possible, with the operation itself. They may never need to put their knowledge and skill in practice but these will be valuable acquirements, which may be the means of saving life. To send for a physician, or member of the 34 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. life saving crew, or some person who j)erchance is known to understand tlie method of manipulating, may be hazardous. They may not be found or may arrive too late. The unfor- tunate person may die, meanwhile. Suitable appliances for restoring the apparently drowned should be kept at all life saving stations and at all sea side resorts. There should be plenty of blankets, and abundance of warm water always ready, or, at least, the means for ob- taining it sj^eedily ; and there should be a galvanic, batter}^ In case of simple drowning, three minutes, or in extreme cases five, is as long as a j^erson can remain under water and be recovered. But in cases of syncoj)e or nervous shock, they may be under water fifteen minutes even, and be restored. The length of time that a person can live under water de- pends upon the amount of air he retains in his lungs. The sj^eed of recovery depends, also, on the same. Persons may lay some time, also, out of the water, before operations are commenced, and still be revived. No signs of life ma}' be apj^arent. But hope is to be maintained. Animation may be simjDly suspended. Attempts, therefore, shordd be made to restore, in all cases. Nor because success does not speedily crown manipulation is the case to be abandoned. It requires sometimes thirty, and even sixty minutes and longer, to re- store signs of life. Death in the water arises often from other causes than simi^le drowning; as aj)oplexy, etc. Of course, such cases cannot be restored ; it is useless to try, and we are not re- quired to do so, if we really know them to have become dis- abled from these causes. We append two sets of rules and directions. The first we shall give are those given, and aj^plied, by T. G. Chattle, M.D., of Long Branch, N. J., and published in the State re- port of the Board of Health, for 1879, pp. 46-48. 1. Cleanse the moutli, nostrils and face with a cloth or handker- chief, before the body is disturbed. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 35 2. Tie a knot in a cloth or liandkercliief , and draw it in tlie corner of the mouth between the teeth. This presses down the tongue, and keeps the mouth open, saving the necessity of an assistant to pull out the tongue. 3. Turn the body toward the right side, over on the face, with the head resting on the arm of the body, or anything else, to raise it three or four inches from the ground. By turning the body toward the right side, the gravity of the fluids in the stomach will force a certain amount through the pyloris, which is relaxed in asphyxia. After the body is turned on the face, clasp the arms around the body, interlacing the fingers just below the hollow of the breast bone, or over the pit of the stomach, then give several quick jerks with the interlaced fingers, upward, as if trying to jerk the breath out of the body. This produces the same movement that the stomach undergoes in vomiting, and will eject the contents of the stomach, also it will force from the trachea, froth, water, or other foreign substance that may have penetrated to the lungs. A few seconds will serve for this purpose. 4. To excite respiration, turn the body on the back; with one hand press heavily and suddenly on the pit of the stomach, while with the other hand just above it, press the chest inward and upward, then release it quickly, then grasping the body around the waist, with the operator's arms under the patient's arm-pits, raise the patient forward gently and quickly to a sitting posture, then lay it down again and press the pit of the stomach as before. The pressure upward creates an impulse toward the heart, as well as an expiration. In lifting the body, the weight of the abdominal viscera serves to draw the respir- tory muscles down, which produces inspiration, while laying the body down, and pressing upon it, pushes the diaphragm up, producing ex- piration. 5. As the body is grasped to raise it, the operator should slap the sides of the chest below the ribs, to excite action of the phrenic nerve. These motions should be repeated about twelve times a minute. As soon as breathing is established, remove the wet clothing, replacing it with that which is dry and warm, even if it be the operator's own coat. The above can all be accomplished by one person, and had better be done mostly by one, even if assistants are near. When there are bystanders or assistants at hand, while the oper- ator is gping through the method of respiration, let some of the others strip the patient of wet clothing, keep the chest bared to the waist, get hot water and dash it upon the chest to produce shock. Let others 36 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. rub the extremities and limbs briskly and upwardly, either with the hand or warm cloths or blankets. After persons have been recovered, they should be warmly covered and remain undisturbed, if possible ; or, if necessary to remove them, let it be gently done and give them a little coffee, with animal broths, to aid returning vitality, as there is danger of a secondary shock after apparent recovery from drowning, which is just as severe as the origi- nal asphyxia. Galvanism has been recommended, but the only really serviceable way in which it can be applied is by means of needles thrust into the intercostal, pectoral and diaphragm muscles, so as to reach the bran- ches of the phrenic nerve and the larger nerves of the solar plexus. The second set of niles and directions which we give are those which were prepared by Dr. Benjamin Howard, of New York, approved by the Academy of Medicine, and which is adojoted hj the Life Saving Society of the city: The first thing to be done is to arouse the patient, if possible, with- out moving him. Instantly expose the face to a current of fresh air, wipe dry the mouth and nostrils, rip the clothing, so as to expose the chest and waist, and give two or three quick, smarting slaps on the stomach and chest with the open hand. If the patient does not revive, then proceed as follows : Turn the patient on his face, a large bundle of tightly-rolled cloth- ing being placed beneath his stomach, and press heavily over it for half a minute, or so long as fluids flow freely from the mouth. Next turn the patient on his back, the roll of clothing being so placed beneath it as to raise the. pit of the stomach above the level of any other part of the body. If there be another person present, let him, with a piece of dry cloth, hold the tip of the tongue out of one corner of the mouth, and with the other hand grasp both wrists and keep the arms forcibly stretched back above the head. This position prevents the tongue from falling back and choking the entrance to the windpipe, and increasing the prominence of the ribs tends to enlarge the chest ; it is not, however, essential to success. Kneel beside or astride the patient's hips, and with the balls of the thumbs resting on either side of the pit of the stomach, let the fingers fall into the grooves between the short ribs, so as to afford the best grasp of the waist. Now, using your knees as a pivot, throw all your weight forward on your hands, and at the §ame time squeeze the waist between them, as if you wished to force everything in the chest up- LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 37 wards out of the mouth; deepen the pressure while you can count slowly one, two, three; then suddenly let go with a final, push, which SDrings you back to your first kneeling position. Remain erect on your knees while you can count one, two; then repeat the same mo- tions as before, at a rate gradually increased from four or five to fif- teen times in a minute, and continue thus this bellows movement with the same regularity that is observable in the natural motions of breathing, which yon are imitating. Continue thus for from one to two hours, or until the patient breathes; for a while after carefully deepen the first short gasps into full breaths, and continue the drying and rubbing, which should have been unceasingly practised from the beginning. As soon as the breathing has become established, strip the patient, wrap him in blankets only, put him in a bed comfortably warm, but with a free circulation of fresh air, and leave him to perfect rest. If necessary, give a little hot brandy and -water, or other stimulant at hand, every ten or fifteen minutes for the first hour, and as often thereafter as may seem expedient. Section 7. — Tlie Art of Swimming, a^ an adjunct. Every one that goes to on or in the water should learn to swim. With this art, he may save himself and others, when otherwise loss of life would occur. Swimming may be prac- tised as an exercise and amusement, but it is chiefly valuable in saving life, one's own or another's, in jeopardy from drown- ing. Persons naturally swim. The specific gravity of the human body is very little more than that of water; es]Decially of sea water, which is denser and more buoyant than fi'esh. Some art, however, is necessary. Persons thrown for the first time into deep water by accident or want of caution, being unable to swim and beginning to sink, naturally throw their arms out and up, as if imploring help thereby, or as reaching to catch hold of something. This hastens sinking. Such, how- ever, is the buoyancy of the body, thi'ough the air contained in the system and clothes, that it will rise again to the sur- face almost always, and sometimes a second time. For the 38 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. want of a little art, however, or thi'ougli exhaustion, it finally sinks to rise no more. In learning to swim, the puj^il should wade into water about breast deep. Then he should turn about and face the shore. Next, he should thi*ow something between himself and the land and instantly plunge after it. He will by this means through the buoyancy of the water, come to float. The object now is to gain and maintain, as much as pos- sible, the horizontal position. An assistant at this stage on whose hand, the learner may, in his first efforts, be buoyed up to the right position, is desirable. Proper attitude will soon be attained, if confidence only is exercised, which is now a prime requisite. The next end to be attained is propulsion. To effect this, the arms and legs should be flexed simultaneously and slowly towards the body and then raj)idly extended. The hands should be held flat; and the person should reach forward with them and his feet as far as possible. In kicking out, the legs should be extended wide apart; and wiien brought to- gether again, the heels should be made to touch, and the toes in a body to extend; as the flat of the foot would otherwise only imjDede swimming. There are several modes of swimming: breast, back, right or left side. Breast swimming, the one above described, is the commonest, and the easiest learned and practised; but it involves the largest amount of resistmg surface. In swim- ming on the back, it is necessary to use only the legs. In fact, the hands and arms cannot be used to advantage or without too much fatigue. They should be folded on the breast. The head must be kept, partly, under water; the face only being out. After swimming on the breast and back has been learned, it may be useful to learn to swim on either side, as a relief, and of service possibly in relieving the drown- ing; but such swimming is much the hardest in practice. Where persons are thrown into circumstances in which they LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 39 are required to be iu the water for a long time, or long for their strength, they may find relief, by treading the water. In doing this, the body should be kept uj)right and the head well out of water. Sustaining and j)ro2)elling one's self in this attitude is accomplished by treading the water rapidly, as if ascending stairs. Diving is sometimes well, as an exercise and amusement, and necessary for the recovery of the lost. It also aftbrds relief, where it cannot be attained or is not desired by at once leaving the water. In descending, the hands should be closed together and projected forward, as if to cleave the water, and the feet should touch at the heel. In rising, the hands should be thrown over the head, in the same way. Ability to swim may be called into service, to save others from drowning. When this is the case, the drowning man should be approached from behind, and be helped by the hair, or by placing one or both the^ hands under his arm-pits to raise him to a right position. Then the drowning man should be asked to j)lace one or both of his hands, if possi- ble, on the shoulder of his assistant. Care must be taken to prevent the drowning person gi^asping his assistant, for in this case both will be in danger of sinking. Section 8. Bathing Costume. Wliere persons go to the shore alone, or with only their families or intimate friends, and they find none others there, they may use their own every day and commonest clothes with which to go into the water. If practicable, as to weather and those present, they may go in naked. This latter may be the better way. But where there is a mixed company and strangers, a suit appropriated to and specially designed for the piu'pose should be used. This may, in some cases, be hired, on the ground. Hiring relieves of trouble in carrsdng and taking care of the garments : but, if a suit is to be usad many times, it is least 40 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. economical. Persons had better take their own suits. They will look better in them, feel better, and it will be cheaper. Care must be taken where they leave their change of raiment and other valuables or that they leave them in proper hands. The costume used may be bought, of the costumer, or it may be home made. It ought to be provided before going to the shore. It should consist of twilled flannel, strong, ai^d colored brown, blue or gray. The garment should be in one piece of Hght goods, and consist of j)antaloons and coat over them. It should fit loose, be buttoned not tied, and have no un- necessary appendage. It should be made strongly and in good style, according perhaps to the fashion of the loca- lity. The above are the main things of suitable bathing costume. But some would add rubbers or sandals. These protect the f ■. ■ it from sharp stones and crabs. Otherwise however, they are an incumbrance, and undesii'able. Any thing but san lals wiU fill with sand and come off. Some would add a broad brimmed hat. This acts as a protector from the sun and wind. But as it is desirable to plimge the head under water in bathing, this also is an incuxabrance : and it is unnecessary. Section 9. When to enter, and lioicJong to remain in, the ivater. By beginners, a bath should not be taken oftener than twice or thi'ice a week. A\^ien the system becomes accus- tomed to it, one may be allowed every day. A cold bath should be taken by no one, on a full meal. Two hours, at least, ought to elapse after eating, before en- tering the water. The outward pressure of the water and its coldness tends to engorge the internal organs with blood driven in from the surface : the consequence of which is, in connection with the presence of i. full meal in the stomach, nausea and vomiting, or congestion, headache and other dis- agreeable symptoms and possibly even fatal effects. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 41 A cold water bath should not be taken either when a per- son is suffering from lassitude occasioned by over exertion of body or mind, Keaction, which is all important, may not follow with sufficient rapidity and strength. A moderate degree of warmth and perspii'ation may allow a cold bath to be taken ; provided the air and water is not too chiUy. But, when a person is overheated, such bath is dangerous, being followed by congestion, cold, constipation, etc. No one should go into a cold bath while cold. The open sea bath should be taken, if possible, when the tide is i*unning in and during the latter half, near the flood and before the ebb. The water then coming from the open sea is pui'er. When the tide is running out, the water is hable to partake, more or less, of the detritus of the shore. At neap tides and low tides generally, the ground, as well as the water, is not so good as at spring and high tides. AATien too, the tide is iiinning in, bathing is attended with the great- est pleasm-e and exhilaration, by reason of the purer water and the stronger cuiTent. There is less danger, too, from un- dertow then. At most sea side resorts, there are bathing masters who indicate, by an established signal, the best time of the day and of the water for bathing pui-poses. Mid-day is the best. But the nature of the shore may require variation with the tide. The forenoon or high noon is generally the best time of the day. Sunlight and an increasing sun is better than no sun or a decreasing one. If, after leaving the water, the lips are blue and lassitude ensues the bath should either have been omitted altogether or made briefer. It is a common fault to remain in the wat- er too long. A very short time suffices for the benefit of the bath. After that, it may affi)rd exercise and amuse- ment : but it is no longer sjDecifically health giving. Two or tlu-ee minutes is long enough for ladies and small children and all delicate persons to remain in the water, especially on 42 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. first taking baths. A good wetting and the shock of the surf is secured in that time, and that is enough. After becoming used to the shock, the bath, if pleasui-able and unattended with any untoward effect, may be continued longer. Ten to fifteen minutes is as long as any one should stay in the water. Beyond this period, it is Hable to be followed with a debih- tating effect, weariness and tardiness of reaction and chilli- ness ; for which the pleasure cannot compensate. No abso- lute rule fitted for all can be laid down, except perhaps this that it should be governed by reaction. There are some who can remain in the water for hours, and enter it often without apparent immediate ill effect, Such cases are not the rule, however. Section 10. Tlie Accompaniment fi or FoUowlngs of a Bath. A bath should be attended or followed with rubbing or fi'iction. This is one of the principles of the Turkish bath ; which is regarded as so salutary. Rubbing tends to make the limbs supple and pliable ; and friction promotes reaction, or the flow of the blood back again fi'om the internal organs to the surface, which occasions glow and pleasurable excite- ment. Friction, also, removes the scaly impurities, which, notwithstanding the water application, may still cHng to the body, rendering the bath, in a measure, nugatory. Rubbing and friction may be performed by an attendant. But if a person is strong enough therefor he had much better do it himself. A flesh bmsh may be used for the purpose : but a coarse towel or gloves are better. The ancients used linen cloths and the stygil or scraper. These latter are, for our modern feelings, too severe. While in the water, motion should be constantly main- tained. It v^dll render reaction more certain, and cause it to appear quicker. The siu'f will, indeed, necessitate motion and exercise. The head should be early submerged. "When a bath has not been taken for some time, soap LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 43 should be used, either in the bath or before entering it or on emerging. At the time of the bath, it can only be done, when the bath is private. Soap may indeed be needed or wiU be desirable often. The body, especially the head, should be washed after the sea bath with fresh water. In Egypt and in India, it is customary to shampoo the body, in connection with the bath. The ancients, after taking their bath, anointed themselves with fragrant oils and oint- ments. This latter custom is rejected by our modern science. When a sea bath acts favorably, that is when reaction sets in promptly, a dreamy feeling ensues and a desire for sleep : and a short nap may now be indulged. But if reaction has not promptly set in some exercise should be taken, and sleep must be allowed only under increased covering to promote warmth : after which a little fiu'ther gentle exercise in the open air may be advisable. CHAPTER V. AMUSEMENTS AT THE SEA SHORE. The mass of men who go to the sea shore do not go there to be emploj^ed in business, or enter school, or engage in study, or even to busy themselves much in house keeping. Some forms of amusement, therefore, are essential to fill up the time, conserve health, and ensui^e pleasure. There is not, and cannot be, at sea side resorts generally, that variety of sight seeing, and other amusements, common in large cities. It is not to be expected. -They are not wanted. Men have enough of these, in the winter time, in the cities. There is much, however, at the sea side, to amuse, indej)endently. There is what is j^eculiar the sight and sound of the sea, with its sails, tides and storms, ever varying in aspect, and sailing, rowing, fishing, &c. All the amusements common outside of cities are to be found at the sea side, while there are several which are common in cities. Section 1. Yachting. Among the amusements of the shore, the first place is to be given to yachting, or saiHng. It is a great pleasui-e to manage, or simply ride in, a sail boat on broad waters. The management of a yacht, however, must not be un- dertaken, at once, by a novice. To sail one safely requires an apprenticeship. At times, as in squalls and rough weather generally, all the knowledge and skill possible is required, 44 I LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 45 and with them great bravery and presence of mind also. An upset is not infrequent, with ignorant or careless persons. Those sea side places which have bays connected with them are the best for this amusement. Yachting may be followed on the open sea. This, however, may involve in some locali- ties, the launching and landing of the boat, through the surf, which is only practicable with a small boat and considerable help. Exact knowledge and much care and caution is needed in both launching and beaching a boat. Without these a yacht may become swamped, and those in it, perhaps, drowned. When persons go yachting on the sheltered bay, or open sea they should make provision against possible danger to the craft, of a storm, and cold weather, and of being carried out of course, and a return delayed. Extra spars, sails and cordage might not be amiss. Abundance of food should be taken, to meet any contingency. As a good breeze at the stai-t may be succeeded by a calm at retiu-ning time oars may be useful. A pole, also, should be taken, for use in a calm, where the water is shallow, or to assist in effecting a landing Bailing apparatus should be made sm-e of, and lights should 46 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. be taken, to meet the event of being overtaken by a dark night. By all who have to do with yachts, in any way, the rules and directions for their management in sailing or in passing through the sui'f, should be studied and weU understood. There are books which may afford some assistance in making these acquirements. But the art will be best attained, not under an ordinary sailor of the open sea, but a practical shore man, accustomed to breakers and to the surf and shore winds and squalls, by watching his tactics, and occasionally taking charge under his direction. All who sail a yacht should be familiar with the waters over which they may have to j)ass, and the hidden rocks, shoals and quicksands which may abound. They should keep dihgent watch of the tides; also of winds and currents, signs in the sky and atmosphere, and be able to calculate for drifting. They must be sober men and brave, gifted with presence of mind, and given to watchfulness. Some other things that should be attended to is the sea- wortliiness of the craft in which it is proposed to sail, whether copper bottomed and fastened, or otherwise protected if not coppered, its sailing qualities, having proper ballast onboard, trimming the boat, how much sail she can or may with safety carry under any pai-ticular breeze, how to manage her in case of squaU and temj)est^ the art of tacking, sailing to the wind, and effecting a landing, and the best method of equipping a boat, for sailing and for a voyage. Section 2. Rowing. Rowing is both a healthful exercise and a pleasant recre- ation. At most sea side resorts, there are bays and ponds where it may be indulged. If a person stays long at the shore, it may be well for him to buy a boat. If he does not choose to do this, one may generally be hired by the hour, day, or season even, and, if further desired, a man to row it. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 47 A man had, however, better row his own boat. The open sea is sometimes sufficiently quiet for a row boat. It must be a large one for these waters ; requiring several rowers, and considerable skill in launching and landing through the surf, which latter will be necessary unless the sea can be reached from the harbor of a bay or creek. Care must be taken not to lade the boat too heavily, rightly to dispose of the main weight near the centre and stern, and to preserve balance in the boat lest it be upset. Section 3. Fishing. . This, to many, affords the finest amusement of the shore. It may be indulged with nets — seines, drag nets, crab nets, &c., spears, rakes, rod and reel, line, and hook and bait, or squid; on the shore or from steep rocks or piers, or from a boat on bay or sea, stationary or by trolling. A little be- yond the breakers, on any coast, fish is generally found in great abundance, and finest quahty. A genuine sportsman will carry with him his own apparatus : all except bait. Some find more amusement in watching others than in directly engaging in the sport themselves. WTiere fishing in the open sea is impracticable, and there is no other salt water opportunity, there may be found, in some neighbor- hoods, fresh water ponds stocked abundantly with fish of other kinds than those common in the sea. In a boat, an anchor may be needed or an assistant in rowing. Fast rowing or sailing helps. The best fishing is across the tides, between their ebb and flow, and in a bay. To the sportsman, it need not be added, that the fish caught must be according to the season, and that different fish require different tackle nud methods. Mackerel is best caught with a hand hne and several hooks. A man may thus catch from 300 to 500 in a day. Blue fish are trolled for, cod fish are caught with a baited hook, crabs in a small net, called a crab net, clams and other shell fish are raked up. Fish of some kind may be 48 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. caught every month. Fish do not migrate. They only put to sea, a little. Each species, in its season, comes into shore to breed and be caught. Birds are useful in indicating the l^resence of a shoal. Section 4. Gunning. Gunning is not an amusement peculiar to the shore, as is sailing, rowing and fishing. The sea side, however, affords some special opportunities, for those fond of carrying a gun. On some coasts, especially where there are bays and marshes, SHOOTING WILD DFCKS. immense quantities of wild geese, ducks, and other birds are found in their season. The New England, Long Island, and New Jersey coasts, abound in such game, and attract sports- men, in considerable numbers, from the cities and back country. When and where it is best for a sportsman to go, the out- fit necessary, the civil laws which govern, and the manage- ment of gunning and of the trip generally, it does not fall within our design here to set forth. These matters, how- ever, are all important. Suggestions touching them may be LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 49 learned from sporting books, devoted especially to the sub- ject. But the last and best school must be observation, in connection with experienced gunners, and one's own practice. Section 5. Miscellaneovs amusements at the sea side. Driving will be found specially delightful at the sea shore. On the beach, there is no dust, and there is a constant breeze, amid never tiring sceoery. For a change, from the constant presence of the sea, excursions into the back country will prove a frequent pleasure. Rambles on foot, along the beach, and into the interior, may be another profitable and interesting method of sj^end- ing a portion of time devoted to mere recreation. Bathing, and Swimming, are amusements, as well as health giving and Hfe saving exercises. Many amusements, both in-door and out, may be in- dulged, whicli are common everywhere, as croquet, billiards, tenpins, checkers, chess, reading, and various small games, adapted both for adults and children. Music and the dance is very generally provided for, as en- tertainments in the evening. At large hotels a band is some- times retained. Occasionally, at the more thickly populated resorts, there are visiting companies and individuals who give concerts, bring shows or deliver lectures, &c. Unrestrained intercourse with friends, and new acquaint- ances which may be formed, will afford continual entertain- ment. Observation of human nature in varied classes and rela- tions, and of the wonders of the deep, for which there will be abundant leisure and facilities, will afford stiU another source of rational amusement. Lastly, to those having a knowledge of and taste for sci- ence, and a love of nature, wandering on the shore, and amid its rocks ; and dredging in the waters, for specimens 50 LIFE AT THE 8EA SHORE. of sea plants aud auimals, will yield one of their highest amusements. They may seek merely temporary euteitain- ment therein ; or possibly they may undertake to form a herbarium or aquarium or cabinet, — a collection of minerals or shells. As an outfit, they will need " a hand net with fine meshes, a glass vial, a small tin pail with perforated lid, a microscope, or lens, some muslin and blotting paper, with which to cover sea weeds before pressing them, some paper or umslin bags, and a hamper," in which to collect speci- mens, and carry them home. Algae or sea weeds should be taken up by the roots, and hung up to dry in the shade. When nearly dry, they may be stored away in bags, prepar- atory to carrying them home. This is too scientific a mat- ter, however, to treat here, and we merely call attention to it. Those who desire to entertain their sojom-n at the sea side in this wa}', will do well to study beforehand a few books on natural history, especially on sea weeds, fish and shells, and carry these books with them for reference and verification. Among those of service and great interest, we would specially name, "Ocean Wonders," by W. E. Damon, and published by Appleton & Co., New York ; also, "Amer- ican Marine Chonchology, From Maine to Florida," by Geo. W. Tryon, Jr. Both are illustrated works. The latter is a scientific treatise, and full of very fine plates of every kind of shell found on our Atlantic coast. The former may be simply read with interest, without any ulterior design. , I I I CHAPTER VI. THE AIR OF THE SEA SHORE. Section 1. The simple air itself of the Shore. The basis of the atmosphere at the sea shore is of course the same as that of the interior. As, however, especially in the day time, the wind blows ver}^ commonly from the ocean, it is pui-er than elsewhere. In blowing over from the land side, it is less pure than when it blows from the sea, but still purer than the interior is generally. That sea-side air is purest which covers an island or peninsula, narrow and sandy, with little vegetation or decaying matter, and having a con- siderable width of bay or sound between it and the main land. It has in it salts from the spray of the sui-f and more of what the chemists call ozone, and is more life giving : while it is freer from miasmatic, and other unsavory and dele- terious substances, common in cities and the low lands of the interior and where there is much stagnant water and decay- ing vegetable matter, whereby both the air and the water be- come contaminated. In some joai^ts of cities, the air is often putrid, offensive and destructive fi'om filthy streets, inade- quate sewers, contagion, manufacturing and other industries carried on, a crowded population, and general uncleanliness. Even at the sea side, as in the healthiest localities of the in- terior, the air may, by neglect of proper sanitary precautions, become deadly. And there are shores, which no precautions can render healthy. A complete change of the interior 51 52 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. growth and surface is necessary. Within the tropics, on the west coast of Africa, there is no spot on earth so unhealthy and fatal. The sea does not correct the deleterious character of the air, but helps to make it. Through several degrees, there of latitude, and far out to sea, a deadly state of the at- mosphere prevails, especially at night, when the land breeze sets in. It is occasioned by the immense mangrove swamps, whose leaves, floated out to sea and mingling with the salt water, evolve, in vast quantity, sulphurated hydrogen, a fever poison of the human, or unacclimated, system. Chlorine would correct it, but the evil is too extended for its use, and the shore there is abandoned. Even sailing along that coast is dangerous. But in our latitudes, nothing of this kind is known, or possible. Our chief and almost only danger from impure air at the sea side, is in those resorts which are crowded, and where proper sanitary regulations are unknown. In consequence of the composition of the atmosj^here at the sea side and its purity, its action on the human system is quick and most vigorous. It affects the circulation very powerfully. It is this which specially distinguishes it from mountain air, which is the purest of the interior. Persons of weakly habit, or enfeebled by disease, need sometimes to be introduced to it gradually, therefore. The change from the interior to the immediate shore is to them often too much of a shock. Care must be exercised at first as to diet, rest and exercise. It is in the air, more than in the water, that the recupera- tive and invigorating power of the sea side resides. Style of living, society, amusements, and especially the scenery there, have much to do with these effects ; but the air has more. This is operating constantly, without effort on the visitor's or resident's part, and night as well as day. On account of the purity, or dryness of the air, and its evenness of tempera- tiu-e, colds are not so frequent there as elsewhere. Persons, too, afflicted with asthma, and throat and lung diseases gene- LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 53 rally, especially goitre, at least in some localities, and at cer- tain seasons, find much relief. Dyspepsia and indigestion become more manageable, and kidney diseases are less troublesome. The appetite is increased and sleep induced. All who have been overworked bodily, hard students, persons who have been confined for a long time in close apartments, those who have passed through a fever, or other diseases, and are now recovering, elderly j)ersons, women and growing children, weak and sickly constitutions, and such as are affected with rheumatism and nervous disorders, will find in the air of the sea shore, and its enjoyment, in connection with freedom from care, their best medicine. As we go north it is more and more the air that is the great sanative agency, the cold being more favorable to exercise than to bathmg. The temperature of the sea air is a very important ele- ment, in the pleasiu'e it affords, and in its healthfulness. The cool air of the ocean, and the warmer air of the land, meet, and mingle, and equalise its heat. Thus spring is prolonged into summer, and autumn into winter. Vegetable life springs up earlier, and dies later. The air of the sea shore is always several degrees cooler in summer, and warmer in winter, than it is in the interior. Section 2. Sea Fogs. At certain seasons, and hours of the day, fogs are com- mon on the shore. They often rise rapidly and disperse as quickly. Sometimes they are dense, and drenching. They are occasioned by so much cool air coming in contact with that which is warmer and humid. To pleasm^e seekers, they are naturally an annoyance ; especially if their visit to the shore is limited to a few days. They are not, however, un- healthy or hurtful, except to a few persons, perhaps, and things. Unlike the fogs of London, Manchester and Pitts- burg, and some other large cities, they aie at least not un- cleanly. They may take some of the starch out of linen — not 54 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. much ; but do not seem to damage the clothes. Things, however, exposed, may become mouldy and inisty by reason of the moistui'e. Section 3. Storms and Tempests. A storm, or tempest, at the sea side, is a very different thing from what it is in the cit}^ or in the interior country. One may not occui* during a brief visit to the shore. But if it does, the beholder for the first time wiU never forget it. Where vessels are in sight, and in aj)parent danger of ship- wi'eck, it is harrowing to the feelings. "When there is a sense of personal and general security, it raises j)leasant emotions. It is gTand and sublime, as is anything in nature. • The wind sweeping with fury over the waters does not agitate them very deep, and the agitation decreases as it descends. But the agitation is deej), and on the surface it is great. The waves rise high, causing vessels caught in the storm to roll and j^itch, and rise and sink, fearfully ; often occasioning the mariner to lose control of them, and diiving them on shore, where they are in danger of speedily becom- ing total wrecks. The incoming waters, agitated so much deeper than usual, and meeting more of the resistance of the bottom of the sea near the shore, rise higher, are lashed into foam and beat against the rocks or break on the sands with appaling force, scattering spray scores of feet upwards, and hundreds of feet forward. Tides rise to an unwonted height, perhaps, and appear angry. Persons exposed near the water become drenched to the skin, and often find it difficult to re- tain standing. There being no inequalities, as on the land, to break the force of the wind, buildings and trees on the shore are apt to be blown down unless weU secui'ed. Vessels and parts of cargoes are quite likely driven in. Fish become stranded. The trend of the coast is changed, promontories are worn away or formed, bays are scooped out, rivers are dammed up, shoals are formed, rocks are battered to pieces. LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. 55 sauds ou the shore are increased, and are di'iven up into dunes or hillocks, or they overwhehn fertile fields and buiy houses, and cut and bUnd animals and men exposed to the drift. If now, to the fury of the wind, is added heavy thunder, black clouds, and vivid lightning, the scene is terrific. When the storm subsides, the change may be very great. For some time, the sea wiU roll heavily, and beat upon the shore, with unwonted force. If a total calm should succeed, the sea will appear very duU and monotonous, sails caught on its bosom will weary the eye, and if it be summer, the heat may become very oppressive. Ordinarily, calms do not last long, however. Section 4. Land and Sea Breezes. On the sea shore, in temperate latitudes, the wind, as a rule, blows from the sea, after ten o'clock in the morning. At night, it blows from the land. The occasion of this is, the ak in the day time, over the land, becomes warmer, through radiation, than does the air over the sea; whereby a vacuum occurs, which invites a rush of air from the sea. At night, the reverse of this takes place. The sea air does not become warmer. It remains about the same. But the air over the land becomes rapidly cooled; in consequence of which the current of wind is changed. It is this alternation of land and sea breeze which occasions the evenness of temperature of the shore, day and night ; moderating the heat of summer and the cold of winter, rendering the shore so healthful and delightful as a place of sojom-n or constant dwelling. Hot or cold wave may be sweeping over the entire continent; but they shall not be felt at the sea. Sometimes the wind blows from the land. Then the heat is intense. It may be interesting, and useful, to state the normal " gyration " of the wind, formulated by Dove into a law, called by his name. The wind varies normally with the sun, from 66 LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. East to West: from S. W. to N. E. by W. and N., and from N. E. to S. W. by E. and S. Section 5. The Inhabitants of the Air at the Sea Side. The feathery tribes, that Hve mostly in the air, at the shore, will be foimd of interest, to all, but particularly to lovers of nature, to the natui-alist, and to sportsmen. Some of them are peculiar to the locahty, while some are common in other places. A few of them, as the sea gull, belong especially to the open sea. Others, as geese and ducks, belong to the bays, in proximity to marshes, whence the geese go in spring, to breeding grormds in the far north, and return again in the fall. Others seem to delight more in the sand or on the meadows, as snipe, bay or meadow birds, and sand pipers. The birds of the coast are generally web-footed. Among them, is some choice game. Musquitoes, and various kinds of flies, are found, par- ticularly where there are meadows, and standing water. Sand wasps are also encountered; the female of which is armed with a sting. Musquitoes become thick after or during a land breeze. Some strong odor, as camphor, cologne, etc., will keep them off. Or ammonia will neutralize their sting. i CHAPTER Vn. THE WATER OF THE SEA. Section 1. The water itself. The simple water of the sea presents several points of great interest; such as its amount, its composition, its taste, its color, its temperature, its usefulness, etc. Tiie amount of the waters of the earth's several seas is very great. In its surface and depth, it is reckoned to be live times that of the surface and height of the land Thus, if the highest mountain of the world is three miles above the level of the sea, the deepest depression of the waters is fifteen miles below it. The matter of the ocean's de^^th, however, is largely guess work. But in its extent of surface, it has been, if not more accurately, more certainly expressed. Still, in the Pacific ocean, the plummet has ascertained a depth of nine miles; and in the North Atlantic, the plummet has descended over nine miles without reaching bottom. There are, however, interferences with throwing the lead which render deep sea measurements uncertain. We can say, though, that the sea is very deep. Such is the extent of the surface of the sea, that nearly all nations border on it. It is principally a few interior countries of Asia and Africa only, that do not. And even these, by canals which may some day be dug whereby their deserts shall be flooded, may become maritime powers. The composition of sea water is a very cm-ious phenom- 57 5S LIFE AT THE SEA SHORE. • eiioia. It is very different in this respect from fresh water. Its basis is, indeed, the same; oxygen and hydrogen gases. But it contains in addition several other ingredients. Twenty- eight different substances have been detected thus far by chemical analysis in sea water, These are oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon, chlorine, bromine, iodine, fluorine, sul2:)hur, l^hosphoinis, silica, sodium, j)otassium, boron, aluminium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, copper, lead, zinc, cobalt, nickel, manganese, iron, silver, and arsenic. To an}" but scientific investigators, it may seem almost in- credible, ,that so many ingredients should be found in any water. There was a time, and not long distant, when the most learned scientists had no idea that water was a com- jDOund of more than two substances, or that it was an^i^hing but an um-esolvable simple monod. There may yet be discovered still other substances than the above twenty-eight. From the decay of fish, matters throw^n into the sea, and the detritus of rivers, new substances nisij be added, in the coui^se of ages, or the present matters increased. From the water of the sea, none of these ingredients have ever been extracted, in such paying quantities, as to make them articles of extensive commerce; except common salt, w^hich has been and still is readily obtained by evaporation. The presence of some of these articles named have sometimes been detected in a very plain way. Thus, silver has been found encrusted on the inside of boilers, in which sea water has been used for evapor- ating steam. Of this one article of value, it may be men- tioned in passing that 2,000,000 tons are supposed to be held in solution in the waters of the sea, and in the structure of sea weeds. Sea water is readily recognized by its mline taf