The Minneapolis Tribune of 1906 regularly alerted its readers to new inventions and scientific discoveries in a feature called “Science and Invention.” The “automatic swimming machine” shown here was typical.

Swimming made easy? More like “drowning made faster.”

SWIMMING APPARATUS

Attached to the Shoulders and Operated by Propellers.

Because a person cannot swim is no excuse now for not venturing into deep water – if he uses the electric propelling machine shown in the illustration. This machine does the work for him and can be used as a life-saving apparatus or an automatic swimming machine. The main body or case of the apparatus consists of a light aluminum box about 20 inches high, which is adapted to be carried on the back of the swimmer. In this box is a motor, which is used to drive the propeller, situated in the rear of the box. On each side of the latter are bags for keeping the apparatus and the swimmer afloat. The apparatus is made as light as possible, and every precaution taken to insure the perfect working of the motor under water. Of course the swimmer, after the motor has started, can very readily steer any course he desires by means of the hands and arms. Attachments are also provided for regulating the speed through the water. A good distance can be covered, even by a novice, being regulated by the size of the fuel tank.

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