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“The Horrifying Warning From 1973: Don’t Swim In the Potomac River”

“Remember how bad the Potomac River was in the 1970s? Back then, there was a warning posted telling people not to swim in it. Check out this sign from 1973 recommending you seek immediate medical attention after prolonged exposure.”
Suffrage open air meeting at the National Capitol demanding that Congress pass the National woman suffrage amendment-- Feb. 1913. Corner Penn. Ave. and 15th St. where the Washington Hotel now stands.
Beach Policeman (1922)
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Remember how nasty the Potomac River was? Yes, it’s still not the greatest, but it’s swimmable in some parts (as long as you don’t have open wounds). Back in the 1970s, it was absolutely polluted. Check out this sign from 1973, recommending you seek immediate medical attention after prolonged exposure.

don't swim in the Potomac
don’t swim in the Potomac

Source: U.S. National Archives

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