From Nancy's Notebook
Stories, history, inspiration, and a glimpse into the writing life.
What Were the Most Popular Toys in the 1950s?
Rediscover popular toys from the 1950s and how children played during the postwar decade.
Easter in the 1950s
Revisit Easter in the 1950s and the holiday customs, family celebrations and fashions of the era.
GRIEF IN THE 1960s
Nancy Thorne reflects on grief in the 1960s, remembering loss and the emotional experiences of the era.
Taking a Photo in the 1950s
Discover how people took photos in the 1950s and the cameras and customs behind mid-century snapshots.
Makeup in the 1950s
Revisit 1950s makeup trends, beauty ideals and the styles that defined mid-century fashion.
Love Songs in the 1950s
Rediscover the love songs of the 1950s and the romance heard in popular music of the decade.
Baby Boom in the 1950s
Explore the 1950s baby boom and how growing families influenced everyday life, culture and childhood after the war.
Slang in the 1950s
Revisit the slang and expressions of the 1950s and the language of mid-century youth culture.
Smoking in the 1950s
Explore cigarette smoking and changing habits in the 1950s, when tobacco appeared throughout popular culture.
Anxiety in the 1950s
Explore anxiety and social expectations in the 1950s through a look at the everyday pressures of mid-century life.
Elvis in the 1950s
Revisit Elvis Presley's rise, early performances and the excitement of rock and roll in the 1950s.
Eight Rules of Dating in the 1950s
Explore eight dating rules of the 1950s and the social expectations that shaped teenage romance.
Drinking in the 1950s
Explore drinking and social life in the 1950s, from popular habits to changing cultural expectations.
Greasers in the 1950s
Revisit the greaser subculture of the 1950s, from hairstyles and clothing to its place in youth culture.
Sock Hops in the 1950s
Revisit 1950s sock hops, dancing, music and the excitement of teenage social gatherings.
Television in the 1950s
Revisit television in the 1950s, when a new medium began changing family life and popular entertainment.
Clothing in the 1950s
Revisit clothing and fashion in the 1950s, from everyday outfits to the era's recognizable styles.
Family Life in the 1950s
Take a look at 1950s family life, household routines and the changing culture of the postwar years.
Life in the 1950s
Revisit everyday life in the 1950s, from home and family routines to the culture of the postwar decade.
