Summer in 1950
This frozen, fruity treat on a stick with two sticks—perfect for breaking in half to share—was a massive summer favorite in 1950. What is it?
Answer: A Popsicle (specifically the Twin Popsicle)
In 1950, buying a first-class postage stamp to mail a postcard cost exactly this many cents.
Answer: 3 cents
This standard summer game involves throwing iron weights at a metal stake driven into the ground. What is it called?
Answer: Horseshoes
Known as "The Ol' Blue Eyes" and a member of the Rat Pack, this legendary crooner filled the airwaves with hits like "Come Fly With Me." Who is he?
Answer: Frank Sinatra
This iconic, blonde bombshell star of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Some Like It Hot became the ultimate symbol of Hollywood glamour. Who was she?
Answer: Marilyn Monroe
Released in theaters in 1950, this classic Disney animated film about a glass slipper had families humming "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo" all summer long.
Answer: Cinderella
If you pulled into a gas station in the early 1950s, a single gallon of regular gasoline would cost you roughly this much.
Answer: Around 20 to 25 cents
Often found in the backyard garden, what is the common name for the bright yellow flower that can grow over ten feet tall and produces edible seeds?
Answer: A Sunflower
This famous female singer, known as the "Forces' Sweetheart," had everyone singing along to "(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover." Who was she?
Answer: Vera Lynn
Known for his rugged charm and deep voice, this actor won an Oscar for The African Queen and starred in Casablanca. Who was he?
Answer: Humphrey Bogart
Millions of kids and teens tuned their portable radios to hear this legendary "King of Natchez" belt out his 1950 summer smash hit, "Mona Lisa." Who was the singer?
Answer: Nat King Cole
Invented in 1953, Swanson introduced these convenient, frozen dinners in an aluminum tray. Buying one at the grocery store cost about how much?
Answer: Around 98 cents
This popular backyard lawn game uses wooden mallets to hit colorful balls through wire wickets driven into the grass. What is it?
Answer: Croquet
This beloved big band leader and trombone player mysteriously disappeared over the English Channel during WWII, but his music, like "In the Mood," remained a radio staple for decades. Who was he?
Answer: Glenn Miller
This elegant actress starred in Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany's, becoming just as famous for her timeless fashion as her acting. Who was she?
Answer: Audrey Hepburn
On June 25, 1950, summer plans were interrupted when the United States entered a major military conflict in this Asian country. Which war just began?
Answer: The Korean War
If you wanted to buy a brand-new, basic Chevrolet or Ford car right off the dealership lot in 1950, it would cost you roughly this much.
Answer: Around $1,500 (Anywhere between $1,300 and $1,800)
What is the common name for the glowing beetles that light up backyard lawns on warm mid-summer evenings?
Answer: Fireflies (or Lightning Bugs)
This dynamic husband-and-wife musical duo dominated the radio and early TV with their incredible guitar skills and hits like "How High the Moon." Who were they?
Answer: Les Paul and Mary Ford
This dashing actor, often called the "King of Hollywood," was best known for playing Rhett Butler in the 1939 epic Gone with the Wind. Who was he?
Answer: Clark Gable
This legendary New York Yankees center fielder, nicknamed "The Yankee Clipper," was the biggest star of the summer of 1950, just a year before he retired. Who was he?
Answer: Joe DiMaggio
In 1950, the average yearly income for an American family—bringing home a full year's wages—was approximately this much.
Answer: Around $3,300 (Anywhere between $3,000 and $3,500)
Which classic backyard tree is famous for its distinct, star-shaped leaves and its stubborn, spikey, wooden "seed balls" that clutter the grass?
Answer: A Sweetgum tree
Before televisions took over, millions of families gathered around the radio to listen to this incredibly popular, spooky mystery theater program that always began with the eerie sound of a squeaking door. What was the show called?
Answer: Inner Sanctum Mystery (or The Inner Sanctum)
This incredibly versatile actress holds the record for the most Best Actress Oscar wins in history (four total), starring in classics like The Philadelphia Story and On Golden Pond. Who was she?
Answer: Katharine Hepburn