This Day in History

June 18, 1964: St. Augustine Swim-In

Time Periods: 1961

Themes: African American, Laws & Citizen Rights, Racism & Racial Identity

On June 18, 1964, African American and white protesters attempted to desegregate the pool at the Monson Motor Lodge in St. Augustine, Florida.

In June 1964, James Brock dumped acid into the water at the Monson Motor Lodge in St. Augustine, Florida. ©Bettmann/Corbis

Outraged, the owner dumped acid into the protester-filled pool in an attempt to force them to leave. Protesters were eventually dragged out of the pool by police officers and sent to jail.

Two of the protesters reflected on the day in this Storycorps conversation.

Below are more stories from the history of the Freedom Movement in Florida.

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This Day in History