Washerwomen by the lakeside

Quai Roussy, City of Vevey, Vaud
(Switzerland)

Until 1945, it was not unusual to see washerwomen soaping laundry on washboards resting on the shore. To avoid getting wet -- especially in winter -- the washerwomen stayed inside wooden barrels. In the bigger towns, the washerwomen worked on board wash-sheds. Protective rocks have now replaced most of the natural shores, and the lake is maintained at a constant level. The damage caused by a recent storm is visible on the embankment. (C.Bertola)