Nikola Tesla, 1888
Nikola Tesla was an inventor, and an engineer of both electrics and mechanics. He is known as one of the world’s great minds and innovators to this day. As a futurist, Tesla was always looking to anticipate both needs and possibilities that were yet to arise. He used his complex laboratory, as pictured above, to explore these possibilities. While some of his experiments looked terrifying, Tesla expressed calm fascination rather than fear towards them.
Cigarettes Bought from a Hospital Bed in the 1950s
While we understand that smoking can cause severe health consequences now, this has not always been the case. Back in the 1930s and 40s, advertising companies even used the fact that many doctors smoked to market it as a healthy choice for people, which carried on into the 50s. It seems crazy now, but patients were able to buy cigarettes from their hospital beds, and were even allowed to smoke them on the ward.
A Manually Operated Traffic Control Machine, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1922
In the early years of automobiles, when more people gained access to motorized vehicles, the absence of road safety laws soon began to show with a rise in car accidents at junctions.
While traffic lights help prevent accidents today, the technology for them was not in place in 1922. The solution was to employ a traffic operator who would work the manual traffic control machine, signalling for vehicles to ‘stop’ or ‘go’ on cue.
A Man on Top of the Golden Gate Bridge During its Construction
The Golden Gate Bridge is now considered one of the most beautiful bridges in the world, along with being an impressive feat of architecture. Being on the construction team for the bridge in the 1930s took courage by the bucket, with employees working as high as 227 metres above the water at the bridge’s highest point.
There were huge nets on the construction site to protect workers from fatal incidents, and while the nets saved at least 19 people during the construction, 11 were still lost in the process.
The Historic U.S. Route 50 (The loneliest road in America)
Route 50 stretches right across the United States of America, from California in the west to Maryland on the east coast. The distance totals 3,073 miles, and takes those willing to drive it across deserts and mountains on mostly uninhabited land.
The section of this road that crosses Nevada was dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America” by Life magazine in 1986, and looking at this image you can see why. There is nothing but vast swathes of empty land as far as the eye can see.
Women Delivering Water While Men Were Overseas
During World War I, as most working men were away fighting, women across the United States took on the necessary workloads to keep society functioning. This included all the jobs requiring heavy lifting, such as delivering ice.
Back before fridges and freezers were commonplace, ice was necessary for preserving food and keeping things cool. Ice delivery in Manhattan was done by loading large blocks of ice onto the back of automobiles or carts, and hauling them into houses or shops manually.
Robert Wadlow’s Height Compared to the Huge Shaquille O’Neal (7′ 1″)
Shaquille O’Neal was considered one of the NBA’s greatest basketball players, and his massive height of 7’1″ was advantageous in the sport. Seeing him next to a wax model of Robert Wadlow, the world’s tallest man, truly draws attention to how tall Wadlow really was.
With Wadlow’s height standing at 8’11.1″ at his tallest, he makes even O’Neal look positively stunted in comparison.
Yoda with His Sculptor, Stuart Freeborn
When Yoda was first introduced to the Star Wars universe, he became a quick fan favourite with his funny ears and green skin. We owe his fantastic character design and fabrication to Stuart Freeborn.
Freeborn is known as the grandfather of modern make-up design, and his iconic design of Yoda is based on Ralph McQuarrie’s concept art, with the face modelled on Freeborn’s own as well as that of Albert Einstein. Can you see the resemblance?
Alice Eastwood Standing at a Rupture in 1906
1906 was host to a devastating earthquake in San Francisco that exposed the San Andreas Fault line across the state. Though it is one of the most active faults on the planet, it was not expected to impact the residents of San Francisco so drastically just eleven years after it was discovered in 1895.
Due to the earthquake, it was established that the fault line did not just run across San Francisco, but it carried further south through California too. The ground was ruptured all along the line, as seen in the image above.
The Monowheel (Dynasphere) from the 1930s
The monowheel was based on a sketch by Leonardo da Vinci. Inventor Dr. J.A. Purves patented it and claimed it could be the next big success on the battlefield by combining it with weaponry, as well as being a great idea recreationally.
Since the 1930s, we have had many new models of cars, motorcycles, and even aeroplanes, but the monowheel never caught on. This is probably due to the restricted view that comes with such a vehicle, along with it being horizontally unstable.
Artist Bob Ross Feeding a Baby Raccoon
The fact that nature artist Bob Ross’s love of the natural world extended to animals comes as no surprise. Not only would Ross take great care raising animals who needed it, but some of them even appeared on his show.
Bob Ross would encourage viewers of his show The Joy of Painting to care for their pets, and he even turned his own garden into an animal rescue centre where he would nurse squirrels, birds, and even raccoons back to health.
Stylish Students at Cambridge University (1926)
Cambridge University is one of the world’s most renowned universities to this day, but the 2020s certainly have less of a dress code than the 1920s did. Student attire was formal at the time. This was partially due to showing the public how proud they were to be studying at the highly regarded university, and also due to the status of most of the students attending.
Though the formal attire is stylish and makes these gentlemen look professional, we’re not so sure those trousers are a look that should make a comeback.
Dad and Daughter Ride Penny-Farthings in the 1930s
The 1930s might sound far enough back in time that the penny-farthing bicycle would be appropriate, but it was already considered old-fashioned then. These bikes were most popular in the 1870s and 1880s until the bicycle we now all know and use took over in popularity.
This daddy-daughter duo were likely taking a trip down memory lane for the father, and letting the little girl have fun on a contraption from the ‘olden days’ for the novelty.
The Knock-up Profession of the 1920s
Reliable adjustable alarm clocks were uncommon or expensive in the 1920s and 30s, so people were employed to work as “knocker-uppers”. Their role involved walking around the city to make sure their client’s employees were up and out of bed in time for work.
Knocker-uppers would use batons to knock on doors, and long, light sticks to knock on the upstairs windows of houses. Some would even keep knocking until they were certain the person in question was up and ready to start their workday.
Cowboys Enjoying a Saloon in Tascosa, Texas
Many of us have been sold a fantasy version of cowboys in films, comics, and television. The truth is that a lot of cowboys were very ordinary men dressed for function over fashion, as seen above.
Cowboys would wear higher hats to keep their heads cool in the scorching heat, and wore long chaps to protect their legs from chafing when on horseback all day. Even the neckerchiefs had a function, as they prevented sunburnt necks, could be used as facewipes, masks, slings, and even earmuffs in the winter.
European Royalty in London in 1910
When King Edward VII died in 1910, nine reigning monarchs of Europe attended the burial. The group of them were photographed together in what might be the only photo of this many European Kings in one room ever taken.
The Kings present were as follows. Standing, from left to right: King Haakon VII of Norway, Tsar Ferdinand of Bulgaria, King Manuel II from Portugal and the Algarve, Kaiser Wilhelm II from Germany and Prussia, King George I from Greece, and King Albert I from Belgium. Seated, left to right: King Alfonso XIII from Spain, King George V from the United Kingdom, and King Frederick VIII from Denmark.
The Oldest Harley-Davidson, Built in 1903
You’ve probably heard of Harley-Davidson, the motorcycle brand famous for its snazzy designs which are popular with rockers and biker gangs. The first Harley-Davidson was nothing like that, and could even be compared to a modern e-bike in parts of its appearance.
It was the start of something big when William Harley and the Davidson brothers, Arthur and Walter, started building these kinds of bikes in a simple shed in Wisconsin. Who’d have guessed what the brand would turn into?
The Original Moulin Rouge in 1915
The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret and theatre which is known for being the birthplace of the famous can-can dance. It was erected and opened in 1889 and sought to bring artists and creatives from all walks of life together.
This photo was taken in 1915, just a short time before the Moulin Rouge was burnt down that same year. It was rebuilt and is still open today with its extravagant arts and events. It continues to attract around 600,000 patrons a year.
Dolly Parton with Husband Carl Dean
Dolly Parton may be a top tier star and the Queen of Country, but her relationship with her husband is very different from those you often hear about from other relationships. She actually met her husband at a laundromat on her first day in Nashville back in 1964.
Parton actually claims that her husband’s more private life and lack of involvement in her music career is part of the key to success when it comes to their relationship. Complementary personalities, independence, and privacy are what she claims are most important in a successful relationship.
An Ottoman Supply Abandoned in the Desert
At the start of the 1900s, T.E. Lawrence, best-known as Lawrence of Arabia, worked for years helping people in the region attack and take down Ottoman Empire outposts during the Arab Revolt. This included stopping supply trains in the region.
Lawrence and his people took down many trains, all of which remain abandoned in the desert. It’s a rather strange sight to see, but hammers in the impact of Lawrence of Arabia and his work.
Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy
Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy were married for ten years prior to his assassination. In their time together there was no shortage of drama, ranging from political concerns to affairs, including the very famous one between John F. Kennedy and actress Marilyn Monroe.
While she was a beloved First Lady, Jacqueline was not a natural at politics due to her shyness and always made sure to make time for other endeavours such as writing, photography, and family life. She was actively involved in helping plan John F. Kennedy’s state funeral after his tragic death.
Costumed Entertainers Riding Horses in a 1920s Halloween Event
Halloween has been around in its various forms for centuries, and the costumes that come with it were just as loved in the 1920s as they are today. These riders not only dressed for the occasion themselves, but also dressed up their horses to look all spooky.
It is possible that these skeletons on undead horses were partaking in a parade of some kind, but this look is a perfect one for the scariest season, and should make a comeback next time Halloween comes around!
The Ridiculously Cheap Gas Prices of 1939
With gas prices fluctuating across the globe over recent years, seeing a gallon of gasoline sold for 16 cents feels criminal! When we take inflation into account we can see that 99 cents (for 6 gallons, as shown) back in 1939 is about 19 dollars today, which would still be a reasonable rate.
As gasoline became more widely used by the average person and oil extraction thus had to become more common, the prices saw a large increase. Imagine showing someone in the 1930s our gas prices now… the horror!
Marilyn Monroe Entertaining Thousands of Soldiers (1954)
Marilyn Monroe spent time in Korea in 1954 after her honeymoon in Japan with her new husband Joe DiMaggio. Monroe spent her time in Korea performing for and entertaining the American soldiers who were stationed there.
She performed a quickly put-together show which she titled Anything Goes. In entertaining such a large audience, Monroe gained confidence in herself. It helped her overcome the stage fright she previously had. She even said the Korea trip “was the best thing that ever happened to me. I never felt like a star before in my heart.”
Funny Reaction of Yakini, a Baby Gorilla in the Melbourne Zoo
The gorilla Yakini of Melbourne Zoo was only a very small baby when this picture was taken in 1999. Yakini grew up a famous gorilla, having his image shared all over the world and is now significantly larger than the average person.
Here we see baby Yakini having a health check-up, and reacting to how cold the stethoscope feels on his chest. If you needed reminding on how closely related gorillas are to humans, here’s your proof! Just look at that face!
Comedy Duo Laurel and Hardy
This comedy duo are part of what made the early 20th-century era of Hollywood so iconic. The pair starred in a massive number of short and feature-length films which were mostly silent when they started their career together, and successfully transitioned to performing in “talkies” as well.
Laurel and Hardy’s final film performance was in 1951, and they ultimately ended their performances due to Hardy’s heart condition. He died in August 1957, and Laurel gave a heartfelt interview about their times together in the week that followed.
The Steam Line KJ Henderson Motorcycle of 1930
The Steam Line KJ Henderson motorcycle somehow stands right on that line of looking both cool and sci-fi whilst also looking like a cutesy ride out of a cartoon. The Art Deco design was reminiscent of art at the time and was set to be the new big thing.
Unfortunately, the KJ had some issues that explain it being forgotten. The bike was very unstable, and its design also made it very difficult to operate. Not ideal for a motorbike.
Conrad Veidt as Gwynplaine Inspiring the Look of “The Joker”
French novelist Victor Hugo published a book called The Man Who Laughs back in 1869 which then became the 1928 film of the same name. The character of Gwynplaine played by Conrad Veidt was unsettling enough for many people to consider it a scary movie, despite being a melodrama.
Gwynplaine acquires an everlasting smile after an incident that inspired the look of the Joker in DC’s Batman. Looking at this picture, the influence on the latter character’s design is evident through all the Joker’s iterations.
Antonio La Cava and His Famous “Il Bibliomotocarro”
Access to books and libraries is so important, but not everyone has access to amazing large libraries outside of city centres. Retired teacher Antonia La Cava saw the need for books in southern Italy, and built his “Il Bibliomotocarro” in 2003 to combat that need.
La Cava drives his little library truck around delivering books to all kinds of people, and even plays music to announce his arrival, a bit like an ice cream truck. His aim with this is for people to no longer view reading as a shore, but a joyous possibility.
Model Goldie Jamison Conklin of the Seneca Native Tribe
Goldie Jamison Conklin was a Seneca of the Heron Clan. She grew up on the Allegany Reservation in the south-west of New York, and when she was photographed for postcards which became very popular, Conklin became a model.
Cattaraugus Cutlery Company of Little Valley, New York were making a line of “Indian Brand” blades, and the marketing of this line used pictures of Conklin in her cultural attire for several years.
Winter in London (1950s)
While the weather in England is still notorious for being dreary, the country has gotten used to not having to function to the same level if there are more than a few inches of snow on the ground. This was not the case in the 1950s, when snow could be expected in large quantities every winter without fail.
In this image people are going about their day in the city of London despite the large amounts of snow blanketing both the ground and the vehicles. Who needs a snowplow when you have sheer determination?
Robin Williams and His Fans Outside a Shelter in Boston (1988)
Renowned actor Robin Williams may have been very famous, but when he wasn’t acting, he spent a lot of time with people in need. He did not only support charities financially, but showed up in person to connect with individuals.
Williams frequented shelters in Long Island and Boston trying to help get people safe and warm in the winter. He would even spend his time entertaining people at the shelters, and was reportedly always friendly and supportive.
John Matuszak Takes on the Role of Sloth In the 1985 Film “The Goonies”
The character of Sloth, the large, disfigured brother in the Goonies, is one of the film’s most memorable parts. Football player John Matuszak played Sloth, giving the character a stature of 6’8″ and incredibly broad.
This image shows the process of constructing the special effects makeup to achieve that final character look. Seeing just how much work went into it makes it all feel even more special.
Colorized Photo of the Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna (1887)
Elizabeth Feodorovna was originally known as Princess Elisabeth of Hesse and by Rhine. She was a German Hessian and Rhenish princess who married into Russian royalty in 1884 through her husband Sergei, a son of Russian Emperor Alexander II.
Lenin ordered her capture in 1918, and was eventually killed by being marched blindfolded to the bottom of an old iron mine, and left alone there.
The Changing Size of the Donut Hole
We all love a donut, and looking at this chart makes you realise how lucky we are to live in a time where donut holes are small enough that we can enjoy that much more of the dough part. As the chart shows, between 1927 and 1948 the size of the donut hole decreased by over an inch.
While we see donuts as a sweet and tasty good to just eat today, back in 1927 and before, donuts were much more for dunking in hot beverages than to eat on their own. This explains why the ring being thinner would be more convenient.
The Voice Actors Behind the “Peanuts” Characters
Peanuts is a much-loved comic strip created by Charles Schultz which later had animated adaptations that continue on to this day. This picture shows the voice cast of the Peanuts show recording lines. Schultz wanted the actors to be young to accurately reflect the characters.
It’s not often we see actors this young in recording studios, but choosing these voice actors certainly made the animated Peanuts characters all the more memorable.
1940s Princess Elizabeth at the age of 14
The late Queen Elizabeth II was on the throne for 70 years, which makes it easy to forget that there was a time before this when she was only a princess. Here she is pictured at the age of 14 in a relaxed moment of reading.
Princess Elizabeth spent her teenage years like many more ordinary people do, by playing games, performing in theatre, and learning the piano. By the time Her Majesty was a teenager, she knew she was the next in line for the throne, and was already being prepared for the position.
The 1930s Version of LinkedIn
There are pros and cons to navigating the job market today, what with getting online, writing CVs and a separate cover letter for each job, but the 1930s has a totally different way of doing things. Here we see a man wearing a sign advertising himself as needing a job.
The 1930s were a turbulent, dismal time for the economy in the United States, and it lead to a lot of unemployment. Resorting to wearing signs just to find work shows just how desperate people were at the time.
Bill Clinton’s Cat Gets Celebrity Treatment in 1992
When this picture was taken, Bill Clinton was governor of Arkansas and in the running to become the next President of the United States. It was not only Bill Clinton that gained notoriety in this time, but his cat as well.
Photographers were piling over each other just to get a snap of Socks the cat, so that the people of the United States would get to know the face of the first pet. When Socks went to live in the White House with the Clintons, he even had his own video game released.
George Bernard Shaw Outside his “Sun Efficient” Writing Hut
Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw wrote his plays in a shed he called London which sat in his backyard. Shaw had the hut built on a turntable so it would be movable throughout the day.
This movable concept is what made the hut “sun-efficient.” The hut would rotate to make the most of the sunlight that day. This allowed Shaw to write all day, letting the light hit his typewriter for as long as possible without having to stop working. Those carefully designed hours were well worth it for plays like Pygmalion.
John Lennon with a Soda in 1964
In the 1964 Beatles film A Hard Day’s Night, there is a short moment alluding to John Lennon using cocaine. In one scene he acts as if he is sniffing from a bottle of Coca-Cola, as an innuendo to the viewer.
Lennon was the only member of the Beatles who was widely known for his drug usage habits, though several of them dabbled in certain substances.
Young Anna Nicole Smith and Her Aged Husband J. Howard (an Oil Tycoon)
Their oddity goes without saying. When she met her future husband, an 86-year-old millionaire, Anna Nicole Smith was youthful and attractive. Anna attempted to dismiss the reports of gold-digging as the pair insisted that they were in love. However, their marriage was short-lived.
Anna’s spouse lived until August 4, 1995, and her portion of the late husband’s wealth became embroiled in a long court dispute. Not so long after her husband left us, Anna Nicole Smith was reunited with him. She was found dead in her hotel room in Hollywood, Florida in 2007 after an overdose.
Mata Hari, the Dutch Dancer in the 1910s
Mata Hari was the stage name of the Dutch woman Margaretha Geertruida MacLeod. Mata Hari was a Dutch dancer, and her beauty will go down in history. Many women have tried to imitate her unique look for years to follow.
Aside from her dancing, Mata Hari is also believed to have been involved in espionage. Although she admitted to the French she worked as a German spy, no records can confirm nor deny her involvement.
Frank Lentini, the Three-legged Man
In 1889, Frank Lentini was born in Italy with three legs and four feet. This genetic rarity is known as being born with a parasitic twin which is when twins begin to develop during a pregnancy but do not separate.
Due to his rare appearance, Frank Lentini began a career as a sideshow entertainer under the name “The Great Lentini.” He would go on to perform with the Ringling Brothers Circus as well as Barnum and Bailey.
A Rendering of the Neanderthals
This historic image is a rendering of what Neanderthals may have looked like according to the excavated material and other data found around 1920 by the Field Museum of Natural History.
In recent studies, up to 3 percent of a modern human’s genetic code may be linked to that of a neanderthal. The Neanderthal DNA may affect certain traits we have such as being a night owl, moodiness, as well as loneliness.
Creative Photography Techniques in Poland, 1946
This is quite the take on fake-it-til-you-make-it. What do you do when your hometown falls into disrepair due to historic events? You pretend everything is normal and beautiful using a backdrop.
The ruins here sat to remind the Polish what they had endured and lost. They ultimately lost a total of 84% of buildings and 72% of homes in World War II. Knowing what a huge undertaking a rebuild would be, some chose unique ways to move on with life once more.
Winnebago/Ho-Chunk Family, 1880
Once known as the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, the Ho-Chunk Native Americans were settled around an area that is now part of Wisconsin. Jean Nicolet, a French explorer known for his finds around Lake Michigan, was the first to come into contact with the tribe.
Here is a family photograph of a proud Ho-Chunk family before the turn of the century. Unlike most of the other tribes, the Ho-Chunk built a life and community in one spot. They lived in igloo-shaped homes that were more conducive to the harsh weather of the north. Preferred crops for the tribe included tobacco, beans, and squash. Nowadays, there are only about 10,000 tribe members left.
The Beatles vs. Their Sons
Bands that move a generation are few and far between. One of the most well-known of the 20th century was The Beatles. With 20 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, The Beatles are also some of the most recognized musicians to date.
This is a comparison of each Beatle on the right with their sons on the left. Not only do these sons favor their widely known fathers, but they also inherited the music gene and all have worked in the industry.
Walking Library, 1930
One common thread that binds together people from all walks of life is the need to be entertained. Whether it be catching a movie, listening to music, or even a quiet evening at home with a good book.
Enter the walking library of London. Long before audiobook apps, digital libraries, or streaming services, there were mobile libraries. For a mere 2¢ a week, you could rent a book from one of those back shelves. Hopefully, this young woman also received tips because the strain that must be put on her back, with heels, could not have been pleasant.
Girls In Windows, 1960
New York is about 400 years old. Needless to say, both the city and state have undergone some huge changes over the centuries. With technology advancing daily, it’s no wonder that people get emotional about watching their neighborhoods evolve.
Photographer Ormond Gigli felt saddened by the ever-changing times and wanted to make a memory. He noticed the brownstone across the street was going to be taken down. In the spur of the moment, he had an idea to remove frames from each window and have a lady stand in each one. The next day, arrangements were made and models arrived in their clothes to give life to this vacant building one last time.
Coney Island Rotor Ride, 1952
There’s nothing like meeting up with your friends on a nice summer day for games and funnel cake. The most memorable place to do that in New York is the famous Coney Island, even back in the 50s.
One of the more popular rides can be seen here in action. The Rotor used the strength of gravity and centripetal force to spin eager carnival goers up against the wall. The ride was closed in the late 50s due to safety concerns. However, a more patron-friendly version still exists in traveling carnivals today.
Nurse Agatha Christie, 1915
Being part of the global effort was something everyone believed in during the First World War. Future novelist Agatha Christie was no exception in wanting to play her part during the world’s stage of disorganization and uncertainty.
Agatha Christie was a nurse during this time and was stationed in Torquay, England. Her time in service included taking care of patients and cleaning up after surgeries. After having dealt with some of the more vivid sides of the global event, it’s not surprising that twisted stories of mystery would become her forte.
The Skyline of Paris in 1890
Paris is one of the most recognizable cities in the world. This is in large part due to one of the most famous structures sitting on the skyline, the Eiffel Tower.
Built-in 1887, this photograph was taken when the landmark was still new. However, that wasn’t the only new architecture in the city. The period known as Belle Epoque, starting in the late 1800s through the start of the 1900s, saw an increase in a new construction that would continue to change its profile into the remarkable city that it is today.
Eltz Castle, Wierschem, Germany
Some of the most notable things to see in modern Europe would be castles. Relics left over mostly from the Middle Ages, the medieval castles add allure and curiosity to the landscape.
The Eltz Castle, nestled in the forest in Wierschem, Germany, has housed 33 generations of the same family for nearly a millennium. The estate was established in the 9th century, but it wasn’t until 1470 that construction started on what you see here. Each family member who inherits the castle has added a special addition. Even though it is a private residence, the castle is open for visitors, who will pay about 10 euros per ticket.
Union Members Resting in 1863
It’s been over 150 years since America’s civil disagreement. After all this time, it can be a challenge to remember sometimes that these people were neighbors who were on a side determined by geography.
This casual moment is more of what many expected when they set off to join the forces. When the conflict started, most young men believed it would be over in a few weeks. Four years and 600k lost lives later, the event had many longer-lasting implications.
Wayne Gretzky, 1977
Most 16-year-olds are studying and hanging out with friends. Wayne Gretzky was busy increasing his prior hockey record for the minor league team he played for.
Gretzky was already talented enough to play with men twice his age. While performing on the ice like a pro for the Greyhounds, Wayne had to live away from home. This challenge paid off as he’s considered the greatest hockey player of the 20th century.
Rare Bonnie and Clyde Photo from 1933
Two of the most infamous people in America during the 1930s, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow captivated the nation with their multi-state heist spree that started in 1932 and continued until 1934. Bonnie was a mere 19 when she first joined up with the already notorious Clyde.
In this ultra-rare image, you can get a glimpse of the couple looking casual and in love. Unfortunately, the serenity shown here was short-lived. The two were finally discovered by authorities on a rural road in Louisiana where they met an untimely end.
Madison Square Garden, 1966
If you ask a native New Yorker, they would likely speak highly of Madison Square Garden. This venue has hosted a wide variety of musical guests, sports teams, and even theater productions. Over the years, it has come to be one of the most talked-about venues in the US.
Madison Square Garden took three builds to finally get it right. Constructing an oval-shaped venue was the most unique design of the times, giving every attendee an unobstructed view of the stage.
Hazel Ying Lee, 1932
In the 1910s, Americans were part of the British flying service. In the 1940s, we flew our planes. Even though the United States Air Force was not created until after the second global conflict, that didn’t keep us from having outstanding pilots during that time.
WASP, Women Airforce Service Pilots, started during the 1940s. Hazel Ying Lee was a standout even in this historic group of women as she was the first Chinese-American woman to obtain a pilot’s license. Hazel Lee took flying lessons and discovered her love for it at 20. By the time she was 30, America was part of the overseas effort and Lee joined. Unfortunately, this hero didn’t live long enough to see the global situation end. Hazel met her end when her plane had a mishap during landing in November 1944.
Walt Disney with His Cat and Mouse, 1931
Just as The Beatles transformed a generation with music, Walt Disney transformed a generation with cartoons and animations. He created one of the most iconic and enduring characters of all time, Mickey Mouse.
Here you can see Walt introducing the new fan favorite to his cat. The cat, like all cats, was unimpressed. However, everyone else was quite taken by the peppy cartoon. The rest is history.
The Sundance Kid, 1901
Another infamous historical figure comes in the form of a Wild West outlaw, the Sundance Kid. Known for his antics with Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch, the Sundance Kid lived quite the adventure.
Before leaving for South America to escape the Pinkertons, Harry “The Sundance Kid” Longabaugh and his wife, Etta Place, made sure to get their likeness captured. He either lived up until seven years after a bank robbery went wrong or he snuck back into the States under a fake name.
Delivery Receipt from 1943
Even if you don’t have personal experience with birth and delivery, you likely know about the often astronomical costs that align with labor in the US. If not, how does $10,000 sound? That’s just an average price tag, not including complications.
This receipt above depicts the cost of delivery from 1943 as less than $30. Perhaps you’re thinking that with inflation it might make more sense, but that’s still only around $460 today. Who needs health care when you can invent the time machine, right?
The Real Ewoks, 1982
When it comes to the Sci-Fi genre, Star Wars is a lightsaber beyond the rest. When the original trilogy began in 1977, the world had no idea what was about to walk out of that starship. A galaxy far away comes with a new cast of characters that are both human and not so human.
Ewoks are some of the most enjoyable characters in the series, which probably has a lot to do with the fact that they look and move like teddy bears. The original Ewok actors, seen here, spent twelve-hour days in these thick costumes for the sake of cinematic glory.
Time Operator in Chicago in 1928
Many jobs sound boring, but this position might take the cake! Back in the 1920s, a new service was started to keep people up to date with the times. The goal was for all citizens to say with confidence, that they’ll never be late again!
Here you can see one of the time operators in Chicago doing her diligence to announce the time every 15 seconds. Pretty soon, recordings took over, and eventually, the service was phased out. Surprisingly, it lasted as long as 2007!
Salvador Dali, 1941
Sometimes you have a bad feeling you can’t shake. Other times, premonitions can come out through creative endeavors such as through art, at least that was how gifted Spanish artist Salvador Dali saw it.
This art piece came to life while the surrealist lived for a short time in California. The tension during this time was often used as a template for design by Dali. This piece represents a desert wasteland with a hovering face. The multitude of smaller faces within the face is meant to stand for the unending number of souls lost during the conflicts at this time.
Muhammad Ali, 1954
In 1954, television programmers had no idea what they were doing when they put a 12-year-old Muhammad Ali on a show called, “Tomorrow’s Champions.”
At the time, going by his birth name Cassius Clay, this 12-year-old would go on to become ranked as one of the best heavyweight boxers of all time. He’s also regarded as one of the most celebrated figures in sports of the 20th century.
The Rare White Raven
Quoth the raven, “Nevermore.” At least that’s what you’d be thinking if you were to ask him about his cousin, the white raven. When you think of rare birds, these are near the top of the list.
This white-feathered, blue-eyed bird’s appearance is due to a loss of pigmentation. Another way they stand out is by occasionally mating with crows. Professional Mike Yip has been photographing these rare creatures from Vancouver Island.
The Wall of Sound, 1974
Elsewhere in the 60s and 70s, the most notable rock bands were forming. The live sound wasn’t exactly the kind of quality we have today. This caused a sound jumble that was not appreciated by bands anywhere, and one decided to take action.
As seen here, Jerry Garcia and his headlining band didn’t want you to just hear rock, they wanted you to feel it, too. Thus, the “Wall of Sound” was born. In total, the system was over three stories tall, 100 feet wide, and weighed in at 70 tons. Hundreds of separate equipment pieces, such as speakers and amps, were part of this monument to rock.
Kids Using a Mimeograph Machine in 1960
There is no greater peace of difficult office equipment than a printer. In offices everywhere, the printer mocks and messes up documents, much to the chagrin of irritated workers. Even though the digital printer is annoying, it still offers a much easier way to get copies than in the past.
That brings us to the mimeograph. Invented in 1886, it was one of only a few ways to get a replica of a document. Here students are going through the several-step process. Using a wax, mulberry paper stencil, the mimeograph covered the paper with ink to create as close to a perfect copy as you could get in the 60s.
Disney Imagineers Working on an Animatronic
This photo may seem quite provocative, making you do a double-take, but it is not what you may have thought at first glance. While many viewers at first may see this as some sort of strange surgery being performed, it is a photo of two engineers working on an animatronic for Disneyland.
This animatronic in particular is for the beloved ride Pirates of the Caribbean. It is quite incredible to witness the behind-the-scenes process of Disneyland Imagineers who were truly ahead of their times when it came to using advanced technology for entertainment purposes. The backside of this figure here looks so real and is a testament to the talent of these engineers and creatives.
Race Organizers Try to Prevent Woman from Running in the Boston Marathon
Kathrine Switzer wasn’t going to be stopped. As the daughter of a major in the United States, failure was never an option. While studying at Syracuse University, a coach once told her that a “fragile woman” could never run in the Boston Marathon. This only encouraged her further. Undeterred, she trained in secret and entered the race in 1967.
Rather than simply letting her run, officials reacted negatively and even tried to pull her from the race. Fortunately, Kathrine Switzer was running alongside her boyfriend, who helped fend off those around her. She finished the competition in just over four hours.
Investigating “Louie Louie” by The Kingsmen
“Louie Louie” was originally released by Richard Berry in 1957. However, it was The Kingsmen’s version in 1963 that stirred up controversy. It also launched an 18-month investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Parents and politicians alike feared that the indecipherable, incoherent lyrics were laced with indecent material. The Federal Bureau of Investigation listened to the song normally then in reverse. They even followed the band on tour, hoping to determine what was being said. Some states and radio stations even banned the song. Turns out, all this publicity only added to its hype.
Benjamin Franklin Pens His Daily Routine
Turns out Ben Franklin had a to-do list too. The Founding Father has authored countless famous works. Many of which are ingrained in the American tradition. Yet it’s his daily routine, recorded in 1726, that provides unique insight into the mind of a genius.
Written when he was just 20 years old, the daily routine featured several surprising revelations. Not only does he appear to have slept only six hours a night, but Benjamin Franklin also seemed much more focused on examining and reflecting on his life than he was on inventing or other works.
Chuck Norris Enlists in the U.S. Air Force
Before appearing on screen, Chuck Norris got his kicks in the U.S. Air Force. Literally. After enlisting in 1958, Carlos Ray Norris discovered his love for martial arts while stationed in South Korea. He has earned black belts in Tang Soo Do, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and judo.
After leaving the service, Chuck Norris would go on to win many martial arts championships and discover his martial arts discipline, known as Chun Kuk Do.
The Tin Man Joins the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Balloons and floats drifting along Central Park are iconic parts of the pageantry around this annual tradition. Yet, it wasn’t always this elaborate. When the first annual Thanksgiving parade was introduced, it was a much simpler event.
It began in Newark, New Jersey, where employees would march down the streets in colorful costumes. After it was moved to Macy’s in New York City, it evolved to the big, extravagant fanfare we know today. Depicted here in 1939 is the Tin Man float, followed by the Wicked Witch of the West.
The Three Stooges Pose for ‘Three Little Beers’
Filmed in 1935, Three Little Beers represented a departure for the slapstick comedy team. Of the 190 shorts produced between 1934 and 1959, the group rarely left the sound stage. Yet, this film took place outdoors.
This movie finds the Stooges working as delivery men for a beer company. Once they discover their company is hosting a golf tournament with cash prizes, the Stooges hit the links to improve their game. As you can imagine, hijinks ensue.
Len Dawson Enjoys a Break During Halftime of Super Bowl I
It brings new meaning to the phrase “throwing smoke.” In 1967, it wasn’t uncommon for a quarterback to have a cigarette and a soft drink while on the sidelines.
Len Dawson put in work on the field too though. He won the Super Bowl and was named the NFL Man of the Year in 1973. From 1962 to 1969, he threw more touchdowns (182) than any other professional quarterback. He retired in 1976.
Fred Astaire Dances Up in the Air
Widely considered the greatest dancer in the history of film, Fred Astaire could make any routine seem effortless. But, in reality, he was a relentless worker. The star would notoriously film any dance sequence repeatedly until it was perfect. Often, this meant 30 to 40 takes.
And his work ethic translated onto the screen. It’s a major reason his stage and film career spanned a remarkable 76 years. Although he was great with a partner, his best work usually came when he was allowed to improvise.
George H. Bush Leaves Letter for Bill Clinton on Inauguration Day
As is tradition, the outgoing leader pens a note for the newly-elected President. However, this one from 1993 is especially meaningful. The two former U.S. officials and political rivals shared an unlikely friendship that spanned decades.
After George H. Bush’s final breath, Bill Clinton professed his gratitude for the friendship that they had formed. Specifically, he appreciated “the kindness” displayed to him and his family.
Concert Goers Hitch a Ride to Summer Jam
Woodstock gets a lot of press as the fabled festival of peace and love. But, Summer Jam at Watkins Glen, NY in 1973 drew even more fans. The concert brought nearly 600,000 people. Even more impressive, tickets sold out instantly.
Yet, the tiny village in central New York wasn’t equipped to handle this huge influx of people. Stores quickly ran out of food and mail delivery was suspended. Fans were still treated to a once-in-a-lifetime show that went off without a hitch.
Muhammad Ali Displays His Winnings
Floating like a butterfly certainly pays off. The boxing legend has come a long way from the 12-year-old boy featured earlier on this list. On his way to becoming the greatest of all time, Muhammad Ali earned a lot of belts and even more piles of cash.
When posing for this photo, he told the Sports Illustrated reported that he was the greatest for another reason too. Unlike other boxers of his era, Muhammad Ali attributed his notoriety to his ability to “throw the jive.” He continued, saying that he was “a boxer who can throw the jive better than anybody you will probably ever meet anywhere.”
Valeska Suratt Poses for a Picture
Throughout the 1920s, most silent film stars dressed in the flapper girl style. But Valeska Suratt was different. She was one of the first mainstream stars to rock the “goth” look. Known then as “vamps,” she was famous for her unique tousled hair and smeared makeup. Vogue even named her “one of the best dressed women on the stage.”
Although Valeska Suratt got her to start doing vaudeville in Chicago, she later signed with Fox and appeared in 11 silent films. Unfortunately, due to the 1937 vault blaze at the studio’s film-storage facility, all of her work is now lost.
Mickey Mouse Consoles Kermit in a Cartoon
Jim Henson touched us all. Whether it was Sesame Street, The Muppets, or some of his later work, Jim Henson had a place in almost everyone’s childhood. Yet he influenced an entire generation of creators too. That’s why, in 1990, after Henson met his end, the Disney company honored Jim Henson with this cartoon. It was sent directly to his former company.
Known for always wanting to have fun, Jim Henson had strict requirements for his funeral. Among them, no one was to wear black. The service also featured a song medley performed by Big Bird.
Man With a Tail
A man with a tail is captured in this undated photograph. This rare congenital anomaly usually begins to appear after birth or in early childhood. This reportedly causes issues with sitting, wearing clothes, and physical activities.
In some cultures, having a tail is considered a symbol of status and prestige. Mostly though, people who have tails have been documented as feeling fear and shame.
A Mental Hospital in the Early 20th Century
Mental patients were not treated with the respect and dignity we expect in the 21st century, and this photo marks a darker time.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a commonly held view that mental illness was something bodily and tied up in the nervous system, which meant treatment was very different than what we see today.
The Woman with a Furry Face
Alice Elizabeth Doherty was alive from 1887 to 1933. Her face was completely covered in fur from the time she was a small child. She was born in Minneapolis and is the only known person in the United States with hypertrichosis lanuginosa.
Alice was exhibited by her parents as a sideshow attraction from the time she was two years old. Later on, in life, her mother commercialized her daughter to Professor Weller’s One-Man-Band.
A Child Gave Birth to a Child
A five-year-old girl named Lina Medina gave birth to a six-pound baby boy, becoming the youngest mother in the world. The identity of the father was never revealed, though her father was taken into custody based on suspicions he might have caused the pregnancy.
He was later released as there was a lack of evidence. Her son grew up healthy, though he passed away at 40 due to bone marrow disease.
The Mobile Jail Cage
Harley Davidson created a mobile booking cage back in the 1920s. Officers were able to detain and imprison unlawful citizens and then shuttle them around as they went.
The motorcycle was called the “Black Maria.” We have to wonder what the officer and the culprit discussed as they rode about town.
Aretha Franklin at Her First Recording Session, August 1960
On August 1, 1960, Detroit native Aretha Franklin entered New York City’s Columbia Record Studio. At 18, her voice was still a marvel to behold.
Aretha recorded with Ray Bryant Combo. The album was called Take a Look, and the recording cluster was called Runnin’ Out of Fools.
The Ohio Bigfoot Girl
A woman named Fannie Mills (aka the “Ohio Bigfoot Girl”) was cursed with an ailment called Milroy Disease which caused her feet and legs to become oversized and engorged.
Fannie went on to get married and have a son, who tragically did not survive. By the time Fannie passed away in 1899, her feet had gotten to be 17 inches long. She was 39 years old.
Princess Diana Being Photographed by Her Son
This 1989 photo was taken by none other than seven-year-old Prince William, the son of the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Princess Diana was the first wife of Charles, Prince of Wales.
Diana passed away tragically in a car incident after being aggressively pursued by the paparazzi on a night out in Paris on August 31st, 1997. At the time, she was 36 years old.
Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg Making a Difference
The late Robin Williams and fellow comedian Whoopi Goldberg testified before a Senate hearing committee. The famous duo was there to advocate for the Homelessness Prevention and Revitalization Act of 1990.
They testified on May 9, 1990. Robin Williams said that “Putting a Band-Aid on a very gaping wound” is not enough.
Young Lucille Ball
This historic photo is of Lucille Ball in 1928, at age 17. Lucille was born in August 1911 and went on to become one of America’s most iconic actresses, comedians, and producers.
The ball was nominated for 13 Primetime Emmy Awards, of which she won five. She has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Lucille Ball breathed her last breath at age 77 in Los Angeles in 1989.
The Majestic Blackfoot People
This photo was taken in 1910 by photographer Roland Reed. Reed titled the image “The Eagle” which was taken in the Blackfoot people’s ancestral home.
Today, no more Blackfoot people occupy their ancestral land, as it is now called Glacier National Park and is protected land for nature.
Two Boys Sneak a Kiss
As seen here, two boys sneak a kiss in a photo booth in 1953. At this time, a male in a relationship with another male was taboo. It was only during the 1950s that organizations began to pop up, demanding respect and equal rights.
Stonewall Inn in 1969 was seen as the pinnacle of the Gay Rights Movement. However, the 1950s laid much of the groundwork for steps towards equality.
Immigrants Arrive at Ellis Island, New York
This photo of an immigrating Italian family was taken by photographer and sociologist, Lewis Hine.
Many wives and their children arrived via a long sail from their homeland after their husbands had already arrived and tried to make a life for themselves before making arrangements for their families to follow.
Mojave Woman
Mojave women would paint their faces in distinct patterns for special occasions. From there, the women would give their face paint patterns specific names, such as rainbow, coyote teeth, butterfly, hotahpava, or yellowhammer butterfly.
The facial patterns could either be yellow or red, and the women would wear their hair long and straight.
A Rest in the Jungle
Since much of the grueling Vietnam conflict took place in the thick of the jungle, soldiers often had to stop and rest.
It is a calm moment in an era of unrest and uncertainty, which is well represented by the thick brush surrounding the men.
Space Chimp is a Space Champ
On November 29th, 1961, Ham the chimp became the first chimpanzee to orbit planet earth. He was placed on NASA’s Mercury-Atlas 5 mission and sent skyward.
NASA was relatively new at this time and felt that sending a chimp into space first was the better course of action before sending a human astronaut. Ham returned safely and the rest is well history.
Putin in Berlin
Before Vladimir Putin became the tyrannical president of Russia, he was an agent for the infamous KGB. He spent five years in Dresden, East Germany.
Putin was quite the young agent, being recruited by his superiors at the age of 33. At the time he was already married to his now ex-wife and had his first daughter.
Barack Obama Plays with His Grandfather
Future 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama joyfully sits atop his grandfather’s shoulders in this photo.
President Obama would go on to be the first Black president of America, leading the charge for Black Americans behind him.
French Jewish People Being Transported in the 1940s
During the atrocities of the second global conflict, many French Jewish people were sent to concentration camps. France was responsible for the deportation of tens of thousands of Jews during this era.
From 1942 to 1944 around 76,000 French Jews had been deported to concentration camps.
Irish McCalla, the Beauty
Irish McCalla has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1722 Vine Street. She left a big impact on American culture due to her rebellious nature.
Irish was important due to her cultural effect on girls growing up in the fifties, as her character Sheena did not conform to fifties cultural norms.