The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) recently published some examples of historical patents issued at the turn of the century.  The patents, which would appear strange to the modern-day eye, demonstrate the innovations necessary at the time, addressing the needs for comfortable, buoyant swimwear, with a cork swimsuit; proper etiquette, with a hat saluting device; and bathing ease, with an oscillating bath tub.  To view more of these historical patents, please visit the WIPO site here.