Holidays in the 1950s

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Memories of Wayne Kelly

By Thanksgiving the sun was setting sooner and the trees had shed lush coats in preparation for winter. Most of the leaves had been burnt in October, but smoke still wisped from ash piles from a few mounds of late falling leaves. Often a white haze from leaves burned the night before filled city streets. The smell of burning leaves is one that is sure to trigger nostalgia and memories in any youngster who underwent that experience. But “Turkey Day” was also just around the corner. And we looked forward to the feast that filled our table—and the relatives who came to participate. It was often the only time in the year we saw some aunts and uncles. A giant turkey from Rihm’s Market was centerpiece, with more side dishes than any one person could reasonably consume—or enjoy. Best part? Pumpkin pie with whipped cream!

Easter

Easter Memories of Joan Sharp Stanley

I can remember going to Easter Sunrise Services at the Home on Easter monring. Several of us girls would deck out in our Easter finerly, meet at my house and drive out there. After that service we would go to our “own” separate churches for regular Easter services then to family dinners. Those were the days. Easter outfits were something to behold.
Thanks Joan…..!!

Easter by Wayne Kelly

Easter was a time for renewal of faith—and new clothes! My folks always felt my brother and I needed new outfits for Easter services, although I never really understood why. And while we usually went to sunrise services it was a quick trip home to don our new Easter clothes that was especially important. In later years I never saw the new clothes practiced in the communities where I lived, though there was the usual commercial advertising adults to buy Easter attire.
Thanks again wayne…..!!

My sister, Amy Knight Wyatt, and I in Easter outfits April 17th, 1949.
Look at my hat, good grief..!!