The lads and gents who were out fighting during the hard years of the Civil War didn’t just have battle plans on their minds. They were often bored and lonely, and looked for entertainment, news of home – and love – through letters.
The Click Americana Team
The Apotheosis of Washington fresco was added to Washington DC’s Capitol Dome by artist Constantino Brumidi during the Civil War. He started the job when he was nearly 60 years old. See it here!
Miracle In The Rain, a classic love story, stars Jane Wyman and Van Johnson as two lonesome people who meet in a small building-doorway during a dismal New York downpour.
While the car name Rambler dates back to 1914, the name was only used for modern cars from the late ’50s until 1969. Here’s a look at some of the top Rambler cars from the 1960s – the classic brand’s heyday.
Back in the 1980s, Ford Escort Wagons were top-sellers all across America, giving drivers cargo space, room for a family… and you could even get the ‘woody’ version with a faux wood finish on the sides.
Here are some interviews with star Rock Hudson from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, during which he talked about his favorite (and least favorite) parts of his hugely successful career.
By looking back at these old Civil War recruitment posters & broadsides, you can see what was being offered to men as an incentive to sign up to fight in the Civil War — and what exactly the leaders were looking for in troops back in the 1860s.
These gorgeous spring and summer fashions from 1922 show how beautifully-made women’s clothing was back in the 1920s. Take a peek at these full-color images that were published in 1922.
This vintage ad featured the tagline ‘I had a headache this big… and it’s got Excedrin written all over it.’ That sentence ended up becoming one of the most enduring slogans of the eighties.
Before he was a star among stars, Leonardo DiCaprio was a kid taking jobs where he could – including playing an awesome gum-lover in this vintage 1980s Bubble Yum TV commercial.
Back in the fifties, hairstyles took a lot of work just to be presentable. To help all that hard work stick around, millions of women used these popular 1950s hairspray brands. Here’s a look back!
Can’t you smell the warm, friendly fragrance as these caramel-y rolls come out of your oven? Try this retro recipe for fresh-baked homemade caramel-pecan harvest rolls!
When it comes to desserts, what is a bombe – and how do you make one? We have answers! Get several recipes and tips for creating beautiful old-fashioned ice cream bombes right here.
When you look at these vintage Longines watches, think back to the era when wristwatches were as ubiquitous as our phones today – and almost as important.
See how these classic 1960s Dodge Coronet cars — both hardtops and convertibles — were big inside and out, but made to appeal to the people looking for down-to-earth prices.
For the front and back yards of the ’70s, here are a few vintage 1970s Rubbermaid garden goods. See retro-style plastic borders for the lawn, plus a little something special just for the birds.
Pajamas that, by their appearance, whisk you back to the memorably warm, cozy little bed you slept in when you were 10 are all the more efficiently escapist and, therefore, all the more to be prized.
See why people loved GM’s classic ’60s Oldsmobile Toronados – rocket action cars that were marketed very differently to men and women. Have a look.
If you’ve ever wondered what it might have been like to walk the streets of a major US city a century ago, here, take a peek at the streets of old Washington DC as they were back in the twenties.
‘Sliders’ was a sci-fi TV show that told the story of four adventurers who discover a passageway between dimensions that transported them to parallel worlds.
If you were planning to get a new kitchen for your home in the 1950s, here are nine of the most popular mid-century kitchen remodels and floorplans you might have checked out!
While the stars were still aligning for her first big acting role, young Mariska Hargitay, daughter of the legendary Jayne Mansfield, took on other jobs.
The 1970s Rival Crock-Plate multi-purpose cooker – from the people who made the famous Crock-Pot – had a high-fired stoneware plate that they said could do the work of several appliances.
Look back at the experience passengers in the thirties, forties, fifties and sixties could expect when they sailed the high seas in high style on these fabulous old cruise ships.
With styles ranging from glamorous to groovy, these vintage 1970s watches helped Americans of all ages keep good time throughout the seventies and beyond.
See two different versions of the Roto-Broil 400 – once America’s favorite infra-red rotisseries – popular kitchen appliances from the ’50s.
These vintage images of the 19th century San Francisco skyline vividly portray how the California city by the Bay changed over a few short decades in the 1800s. Take a look back at how the city grew and grew and grew.
During and after his stint as James Bond, actor Sean Connery played off his fame and good looks by making these ads for Jim Bean Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey – with nary a smile in sight.
These classic 1960 Mercury cars played up one of the most successful automobile marketing angles: luxury options, but at a low price. Look back at these old cars from the sixties, made by a division of Ford!
All of these unidentified antique photos was taken in Ohio before the Civil War, but we will probably never know who any of the people in these old daguerreotypes were.
Back in the ’60s, The Mamas and The Papas were no ordinary band or singing group – they had that certain extra something that made sure their music would stand the test of time. Here’s a look back.
Hot buttered Cheerios – a quick, easy snack made with Cheerios cereal. Make a bowl right now, and you’ve got Hot Buttered Os – plus 5 variations to try.
The Allies weren’t just trying to create the very best WWII fighter planes that they could – they were also constantly evaluating what the Nazis were using. Here’s a look.
The ’80s hit song ‘Fish Heads’ didn’t just sound strange, but it was co-created by vintage ‘Lost in Space’ TV show actor Billy Mumy. Find out more here!
With this book, you can color in 44 classic Victorian houses from the 1880s and 1890s, when many elaborately-decorated homes were built in America. See what’s inside!
Before email, people wrote letters — and Hallmark made sure they had stylish paper to do it with. A look back at the vintage Hallmark stationery sets.
This flip-over chair – in the original Hudson Valley version of the 1870s or a colorful adaptation – offers the fun of choosing between two seats with a quick flip of a finger.
How about a little old-fashioned holiday inspiration? Check out these super-cute retro Christmas cake decorating ideas to help you use frosting to make a wreath, stocking, reindeer, Santa Claus cake and more!
In a world of ordinary cars, the Thunder’s still there (1981) It’s a great name. Thunderbird. One that carries with it high expectations for an
A good old-fashioned gooseberry pie has not been forgotten – the recipes are still enshrined in the hearts and the private recipe collections of many people. Here are some classics!
Look at some of the loveliest old Victorian hairstyles for women, from back when they were called coiffures, and when getting the perfectly elegant look took hours to manage.
This retro recipe for a lemonade chiffon pie with lemonade crust may be straight out of the ’50s, but if you make it, that doesn’t mean you won’t want to eat it right out of the pie plate!
Keyed for color, comfort and convenience, the retro bathroom decor for two homes in the city and two in the country have been remodeled for maximum relaxation.
Where do wine glasses go? How many forks should be set out on the table – and what’s the difference between them? What about a bread plate? Find out how to set a formal dinner table the proper old-fashioned way with these tips from 100 years ago.
United States astronauts who go to the moon may wear headgear designed and produced by a ladies’ milliner.
If you have a pair of vintage gloves – or even a new pair – and want to know the best way to care for these delicate and elegant classic accessories, this article is for you!
From just the trailer, it seemed like just another John Hughes movie, but ‘The Breakfast Club’ was something different. For many ’80s teens, it was more real and more relatable. Find out why here!
When Founding Father Benjamin Franklin died in 1790, newspapers published an account of Franklin’s last illness and death, his obituary, and even the epitaph he wrote for himself.
Looking back, it’s clear that young Betty White had all the same things we loved about older Betty White – the smile, the humor, the voice, the verve. Here’s a look at the early life and career of this actress!
The Civil War wasn’t going well for the Union in the early weeks of December 1861 – and it was going still worse for William Tecumseh Sherman. Find out why here.
If you’ve been on social media and have been seeing the term ‘sea shanties’ a lot lately, get the basics here about these old songs that have been around for centuries.
Just two weeks after giving birth to her son, Jackie Kennedy met with First Lady Mamie Eisenhower for a tour of the White House, in preparation for John F Kennedy’s presidential term to start the following month.
More than 100 years ago, Victorian corsets were practically required for women – to emphasize certain parts of the body, and to minimize others. Here’s a look back to what ladies back then were wearing!
If you’re looking for a new way to serve hot dogs, you’ve got it right here with this warm and savory retro recipe from 1955!
These vintage home decorating fabric styles and patterns show you what was popular in 1965, both in terms of what designers were offering, and what everyday folks were buying at popular department stores.
These retro spinning circling train top were popular with kids in the sixties! Each one had a clear plastic dome with a mini locomotive inside.
Back in 1920, lots of people – including media and leading scientists – thought there was an active society on Mars, and that the Martians wanted to talk to us. Find out why they believe that here.
The Civil War’s bloodiest day: Lee turned back at Antietam (1962) A look back on the centennial, by Merton T. Akers — The Lawrence Gazette
There is not a man living who does not like to see a woman in an apron. Every groom dreams of his young wife donning an apron in which to pour his coffee.
These vintage insect killer ads from the fifties didn’t hold back, using phrases in their vintage marketing like drop dead, declare warfare and mow down insects. The Gulfspray can holding a gun was also a creative touch.
When the old Victrola record players were first introduced, those turntables were some cutting-edge tech. Here’s a look at the history of the famous Victor Talking Machines!
These wonderful, workable kitchen designs from the 60s were said to be a joy to use and to clean. Take a look back at six creative mid-century kitchens here!
This creative collection of ideas came from Crayola, the famous crayon maker, back in the 1950s. They suggest some simple old-fashioned ways for kids to have quiet fun at home with crayons and paper.
Our grandmothers used to take care of lace to preserve them, and we, too, can follow in the footsteps of our ancestors to keep our laces in good condition.
Depending on how you count, between three and seven people died due to the very first Indianapolis motor car race back in 1909. Find out more here.
In the ’70s, long before he was the guy millions of Americans knew as a cop on Law & Order, here’s what Jerry Orbach’s home – a New York City brownstone – looked like.
The 1967 Mercury was said to be ‘for men who like their action big! You sense this the moment you take the wheel. It’s a Ford Mercury. This is the Man’s Car with a heritage of performance! Cyclone!’
In the fifties, people wanted to know: What was rock ‘n’ roll music? Where did this wild dance noise come from – and was it safe for the kids? Should it be banned, or was it just a fad?
These vintage 980s personal computers weren’t just expensive, but some had hard drives so small that just one of these old PC ad images would have maxed them out.
A Tom Collins isn’t a drink just named after some guy, somewhere. Find out the story of ‘Have you seen Tom Collins?’ – and get recipes for four original, old-fashioned versions of the Tom Collins cocktail.
Edward Jenner, the discoverer of vaccination – including the smallpox vaccine – and one of the greatest benefactors of the human race, performed his first test experiment in 1796.
This carefree tie-on poncho is cut in just four identical pieces and put together with simple straight sewing. Best of all, it has a dozen uses, can be made in any number of different fabrics, and cut to any length you like.
Just 18 years old, Aretha Franklin moves flawlessly in her vocals — from spiritual, to blues to jazz and to pop; and her ability as a pianist is something more to reckon with. Aretha is the girl to watch!
Here’s how to choose a turntable that will make your vintage vinyl records come alive, based on all the retro tips on what really made a difference back in the day.
This old-fashioned chocolatey cookie recipe couldn’t be easier! It’s made with a base of brownie mix, which you chill to make your own slice-and-bake cookies.
Something Old: Vintage Wedding Dress Fashion Look Book is a collection of more than 300 images, documenting over a century of bridal fashions from the Western world. Find details about everything that went into preparing a bride for her walk down the aisle — from the tiara on her head to the toe of her shoe — and, of course, the all-important wedding dress.
In Classic Cars Adult Coloring Book #2: Vintage 1920s Automobiles (1920-1929), find dozens of classic car brands dating back to the Twenties, including Chandler, Pontiac, Chrysler, Nash, Hupmobile, Franklin, Dodge, Overland, Elcar and Ford.
In Classic Cars Adult Coloring Book #1: Early American Automobiles (1895-1919), see dozens of classic car brands dating back to the late Victorian age, including Buick, Cadillac, Chalmers, Chandler, Cole, Davis, Ford, Overland, Packard, Pierce Arrow, Rambler, Stoddard-Dayton and Studebaker.
In Classic Cars Adult Coloring Book #3: Vintage 1930s Automobiles (1930-1939), find many classic car brands dating back to the Thirties, including Plymouth, Studebaker, Chrysler, Pierce Arrow, Ford, Franklin, Lincoln, Hudson, Hupmobile, and Oldsmobile.
Between the covers of this book, you will find 47 coloring pages showing full-length fashion plates of tea gowns and walking dresses, evening costumes and dainty frocks that were popular in the United States during the late Victorian era — specifically, 1895 to 1899.
Each of the 48 full-page images in Vintage Women Coloring Book #9: Fashion Art of the ’70s was carefully chosen from thousands of fashion illustrations published between 1970 and 1977.
What was vintage ’80s tech like? The Good Guys were a big consumer electronics specialty retailer selling brand-name audio and video gear. See the hottest retro TVs, stereos and more from 1987!
In our book, Vintage Women Coloring Book #7: Fashion Layouts from the Early 1920s, you will find 43 coloring pages with more than 180 different examples of outfits popular during the twenties.
In Victorian Fashion Scenes from the Late 1800s, find 47 coloring pages showing more than 80 different examples of the tea gowns and walking dresses, evening costumes and dainty frocks that were popular in the United States during the late Victorian era.
Although it was an incredibly close race, Richard Milhous Nixon conceded victory to President-elect John Fitzgerald Kennedy in the early hours of the morning on the day after the election.
These classic gooseberry preserve recipes show you the old-fashioned ways to prepare and preserve these rare summer fruits.
Each of the 48 full-page images this book about top Fashions of the ’60s was chosen from thousands of fashion illustrations — the elegant, the camp, and the many looks in between — published between 1960 and 1969.
In Gaby, playing off one of the more haunting love mix-ups of World War II, a French-born dancer in London (Miss Caron) meets an American soldier. Then he is sent overseas, and soon presumed lost.
There have been tales of what happened at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota in 1890. Here, see original vintage news reports of the battle, plus a historical review of the events from 1976.;
Here’s a handy guide to dozens of cooking measurement conversions for old-fashioned recipes — and their modern-day equivalents!
It’s not often you can discover long-lost information about somewhere like New York City’s PJ Clarke’s saloon/restaurant. How much more could there be left to learn about a piece of living history?
Delicious Christmas and holiday recipes with walnuts, including Chess pie, Walnut nuggets, Plum pudding, Walnut stuffing, Scotch trilbies, Panettone, and other delights.
From the era before electricity, automobiles and radio come these very old-fashioned recipes for Victorian Christmas side dishes. Get a taste of the holidays, 1800s-style!
Anyone visiting a county fair in the 1890s was likely to bring home a piece of ruby glass as a souvenir. They once sold for a song, and now are finds you’ll treasure.
Looking for a fun and creative holiday project that’s a little different? Check out these crafty and cute vintage Christmas decorations, based on ideas popular back in the sixties.
Beautiful, festive Christmas plates and dinnerware – like these vintage sets from Lenox and Spode – are still popular. Here’s a look at some of the patterns and pieces you could get in the past!
Find out all of the then-hot new features on the 1954 Ford Ranch Wagons, an all-steel car that had fold-down seats so you could carry cargo or passengers.
While orchestra leader Glenn Miller himself disappeared, his music has done rather the opposite – reaching and speaking to generations well beyond his untimely death during WWII.
