The Breakers, Atlantic City. Postcard c. 1940. Yeshiva University Museum.

The Breakers was one of many grand hotels lining the Atlantic City coast in the 1940s. The area became a top vacation destination for East Coasters in the 20th century, perhaps propelled by increasing disposable income among the middle class and the adoption of proper swimming outfits by men and women. You can view a newly uploaded set of summer photos, with retro swimsuits and summer camps galore, on the Center flickr page under the tag “Summer Recreation.”