He was an early proponent of sidestroke which was a technique first seen in Australia with what was called an overarm recovery.

This remained the best stroke for longer distances for some time even after front crawl became popular.

However the number of spectators was few and Beckwith lost money after hiring a steamer for onlookers.

[7] In his 1889 book Rambles of a Physician, P 324, Mathew Woods describes Professor Beckwith's Aquatic Entertainments at The London Aquarium.

At one time this was believed to be the first-ever printed description of synchronised swimming or water ballet.