Abstract
Wellesley College, opened in 1875, had rowing from the beginning. Crews designed and wore individual costumes to distinguish their classes, starting in the sophomore year. These uniforms represent the earliest team uniforms for women in a collegiate setting in the United States. Costume became an important element of Float Day, the annual rowing event that lasted until 1948. However, the first 25 years, until 1900, were most important in developing a suitable uniform for the sport. From the first, the gymnastic dress was the model; in the 1880s fashion overtook function, but in the 1890s, because of improved rowing shells, regulation gymnasium costume became the norm.
Archival written and photographic materials provided primary sources, but photo documentation raised important questions and problems for the historic researcher dealing with chronological dating.
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