Tag Archives: No TV

Movies frame 50s childhood memories and friendships

Most movies produced during the 1950s focused on adult interests. The cartoons that preceded the main feature were considered the children’s part of the presentation.  Western theme films, Science Fiction, WWII films, and Comedy genres attracted both children and adults. … Continue reading

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Radio afternoons with box tops and action heroes in 1950

Before TV, children’s fantasies played out on 50s radio afternoon programs. The themes mirrored the wild west films of the 30s and 40s. Advertising jingles promoted breakfast cereals via proof of purchase to order toys such as glow in the … Continue reading

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Compulsive swimming behavior is part of the culture part 1

Swimming was a recreational activity but was also an escape from the heat. We swam in almost every mud puddle that was at least 6 feet deep. People engaged in compulsive swimming as a common adaptation. The culture for the … Continue reading

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Children’s habitats are discovered and invented in a 50s small town

Before the development of the recreation movement, which did not start to accelerate until the late 50s, children adapted their environment for playful purposes. Cities did not allocate facilities for children’s programs. Cities did not budget and train staff to … Continue reading

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Sports we loved but never saw on TV

Children’s sports common in the Alton, Illinois area were unknown in many parts of the country. Games invented there spread to other parts of the country. The game players or their parents constructed the required equipment in the basement workshop … Continue reading

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Diary of a small oil town culture circa 1950 holiday traditions

Children eagerly anticipated holidays. Children did not notice the national media presentations. Radio, TV, and film did not advertise extensively for holiday purchases. Holiday traditions childhood perspective The nature of holiday celebrations are part of the definition and character of … Continue reading

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