On Wednesday, July 5, the Old York Historical Society will begin offering tours of York Beach. Tour guides will focus specifically on cultural and architectural changes in the area. The development of the beach came relatively late in York’s history; it wasn’t until the end of the 19th century that large numbers of tourists began visiting the area during the summertime. Summer travelers came from as far away as Philadelphia and New York to take in the saltwater and the fresh sea air. Photographs will be used during the tours to demonstrate the contrasts between York Beach “then” and “now.”

Tours leave from the gazebo at Ellis Park on Short Sands Beach at 4 p.m. and last about an hour. The cost is $5 per person, or free for Old York Historical Society members.

Visit www.oldyork.org for more information.