Bert Thomas in a support boat "Siesta" after finishing the crossing of the Juan de Fuca Strait by swimming it in 11 hours and 10 minutes.
Draper, HoraceBert can barely be seen in the water, to the right of the 4th support vessel from the left, as he approaches Saxe Pt. to a cheering crowd of approximately 2000.
Draper, HoraceBert Thomas, his wife, support boats and crew leaving Saxe Pt. after Bert's swim and record was completed.
Draper, HoraceBert Thomas approaching rocks at Saxe Pt after swimming the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Draper, HoraceOn Friday, July 8, 1955, Bert O. Thomas (1925-1972), age 29, was the first person to swim across the Strait of Juan de Fuca from Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (Source: HistoryLink.org). Photos taken by donor.
Draper, HoraceBert Thomas on shore at Saxe Pt in Esquimalt after swimming the Strait of Juan de Fuca from Port Angeles, WA.
Draper, HoraceBert Thomas wading the final few feet to shore after swimming the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Draper, HoraceBert Thomas in support with his wife after swimming from Port Angeles, WA to Saxe Pt.
Draper, Horace