Today, public nursing, or breastfeeding, has become quite a topic of conversation, with an increasing number of mothers choosing to share their intimate nursing moments on social media, in hopes to dissipate the stigma revolved around breastfeeding in public. However, the notion of breastfeeding publicly was not always viewed with prejudice. In fact, women as early as the 19th Century have been photographed proudly nursing their babies.
While women at that time were modestly dressed, breastfeeding was considered a symbol of strength and femininity. It was not viewed as taboo, but rather, was widely-accepted as a way women contributed to the sustainability of their families.
In the images seen below, taken over 100 years ago, these Victorian mothers confidently document their intimate nursing moments with their little ones:
