We exist in a world that is ever-evolving. How we communicate with each other and perceive our surroundings is different from the past. With the emergence of new technology, there are novel ways to record our lives and save our history. These unique 50 photos are proof of that. They capture moments that might have been lost to time. They illustrate cultural and lifestyle shifts over the years and offer us a window into a past we might otherwise never have witnessed.
Taunting The Royal Guard
It’s always exciting to challenge people in authority and watch their responses, but things can sometimes go awry. As you can see, this woman is attempting to provoke the Royal Guard in Sweden. However, he isn’t responding to her as he has a duty to perform.
The guards have the duty to serve and protect the Royal family from any harm. Of course, this woman understands that he won’t harm her, which is why she is attempting to get a reaction from him. No woman with an ice cream cone can sway this man from his loyal duty.
Just a Routine Dinosaur Delivery, Nothing Unusual
Have you ever thought about how large objects and displays are transported into museums? Well, here’s your answer: a helicopter is used for delivery. However, this isn’t the usual procedure; it was a publicity stunt to promote the opening of the dinosaur exhibit at the Museum of Science.
The media in Boston was informed in advance so they could capture the event as part of the stunt. One might wonder what people at the time thought when they saw this happening in the sky. They probably assumed some Godzilla was about to take over the city.
Just an unposed photo of Jayne Mansfield
Many people have attempted to emulate Marilyn Monroe, but Jayne Mansfield has been the closest. In this instance, she exudes elegance in her white gloves while playing the piano at home. She was the first American actress to appear nude in a Hollywood film.
There has been much speculation about the men Mansfield was involved with. It is known that both John and Robert F. Kennedy were intimate with her. She enjoyed a successful career as an actress and was also one of the early Playboy Playmates.
The Flight Attendant Uniform That Wasn’t Approved
In 1958, Scandinavian Airlines decided to make a daring move by introducing a new stewardess uniform. Brigitta Lindman was in charge of reviewing the uniform, and she disapproved of it due to its boldness. Lindman had gained recognition at the time. She was even selected to be on the cover of Life Magazine, surpassing over fifty other stewardesses. Given the conservative nature of the era, such uniforms would not have been well-received. Consequently, Lindman felt it was best not to approve them.
A Horse-Drawn Carriage with Zebra Pattern
You can always rely on royal families to be extravagant about simple matters, and this carriage is a perfect illustration. The carriage is pulled by zebras instead of horses. The purpose of this carriage was to demonstrate that even wild animals can be domesticated and tamed with the appropriate methods.
Lord Walter Rothschild needed to make a statement, and this carriage was his demonstration. People are riding in the carriage and waiting in line to dine on some swan. The zebras do not appear very content, and understandably so, as they would prefer to be in the wild hunting for their own food.
Fashion Without Bras
Nothing feels more freeing than walking around the city without a bra, and these women were living their dream in the 70s. It all happened during the sixties when the Women’s Liberation Movement was widespread. The idea was to protest, which is why women started going braless.
Going braless became a symbol of defying traditional feminine expectations and embracing freedom. Of course, men also appreciated this time as it gave them a chance to see women without bras in public. Over time, it became more of a fashion statement and less about political activism.
A Hollywood Icon of the Vietnam War
Chris Noel transitioned from being a model to becoming a Hollywood actress. Her career took a turn when she started performing for troops in Vietnam. She began working with the Armed Forces radio and television service in Vietnam.
During this period, she undertook at least four tours in Vietnam, and her helicopter was fired upon on two occasions. The troops adored her pinup photos, and she was well-loved by everyone. In 1984, the Veterans Network honored her with a Distinguished Veteran award, recognizing her significant efforts during that time.
Superstar Mother-Daughter Pair From The 70s
If you’ve ever seen the movie Psycho, you’ll know this mother-daughter pair. Janet Leigh delivered an outstanding performance, particularly in the famous shower stabbing scene, which many regard as one of Hollywood’s most iconic moments.
Jamie Lee Curtis is also recognized for her remarkable acting, much like her mother. Janet’s expression suggests she’s seen a ghost. We appreciate this rare discovery as it brings together two of Hollywood’s most legendary women.
Honoring the Animals That Lost Their Lives
When we consider war, we often reflect on the millions of human lives lost. However, animals also perished, with many dying during World War II. This picture pays tribute to the eight million horses, donkeys, and mules that lost their lives along the way.
Nearly 700 soldiers are depicted in this photo, standing in solidarity with the animals that perished. These animals played a crucial role during the war, responsible for transporting medical supplies, ammunition, water, food, and more.
Sophie Loren’s Most Stylish Appearances
If you have seen some classic Italian films, you may be a fan of Sophia Loren. She is one of the greatest Italian actresses of all time. From an early age, she landed leading roles in many successful Italian movies, which boosted her career, and she moved to the US in 1957.
Nothing could stop her, and she had the opportunity to work with some legendary, iconic stars of that era. Sophia Loren was the dominant name at award shows during the 60s and 70s.
A Cast Full of Stars in Next of Kin
Many people are unaware of this film, but it features Patrick Swayze, Liam Neeson, and Bill Paxton in the cast. The story revolves around a Chicago cop on a quest to find his brother’s killer, while his two other brothers are on the same mission.
Though many other stars were considered for this movie, they didn’t end up on the list. Released in 1989, it is an action film. Although the movie is not remarkable, the image of the cast is a unique and rare discovery.
Authentic Women Possess Curves
Sophia Loren began her acting career at the age of sixteen. However, her major breakthrough came six years later when Paramount Studios made her an excellent offer. If you have seen Grumpier Old Men, Houseboat, or The Pride and the Passion, you know who she is.
In this image, you can see her posing in black lingerie, showcasing her incredible figure. She hails from a modest background and has worked diligently to establish her name in the entertainment world. We admire strong and bold women like her who project beauty and confidence with elegance.
David Bowie at Fourteen Years Old
David Bowie is recognized for his charisma, which is evident in this picture when he was fourteen years old. This photo is from when he was 14.
th
In February 1960, at least six girls asked him out, but he wasn’t always a musical superstar. Before becoming a musician, Bowie worked as a delivery boy for a local butcher in a town in England. Even in school, his music teachers didn’t think his voice was good enough. However, he ultimately proved them wrong, as he remains an iconic figure in the music industry.
Montgomery and Her Trailer
The image of Elizabeth Montgomery exiting her trailer dates back to 1961, and she looks beautiful even here. Coming from a showbiz family, it’s no wonder she was naturally talented. Her mother was a Broadway actress, and her father was Robert Montgomery.
If you’ve seen Bewitched, you’re already aware of her exceptional acting skills. Her charm and performance captivated everyone, and she was acquainted with Elvis Presley. Although unconfirmed, there were rumors of a romantic involvement between them during this period.
Sissy Spacek as a model
Do you enjoy horror movies? If so, you might have seen “Carrie” by Stephen King. Although Sissy Spacek is drenched in blood in the film, it stands out as one of her best performances.
Before her film career, Spacek worked as a model, and in the 1970s she did a shoot for a poster. Her posters were even displayed in Andy Warhol’s factory. Spacek was a popular choice among directors, giving her the opportunity to be involved in various projects, including “Prime Cut.”
Is This Swimsuit Inappropriate?
In the early 1900s, society was much more conservative regarding sexuality, and people were hired to measure the length of women’s swimsuits in public. Women had to dress within certain limits and not appear indecent. Essentially, this was a way to shame women who did not follow the length rules. The picture shows an example of this taking place at Palm Beach. Fortunately, this no longer occurs, and women can wear what makes them comfortable in public. We have made significant progress since those days.
Mork from the show “Mork & Mindy”
We all miss Robin Williams, which is why we’ve included this rare photo in our collection. In this image, Robin Williams is seen as his character Mork from “Mork and Mindy.” He’s wearing go-go boots, a skirt, and a halter top as he runs through the field during this event.
This stunt became a significant aspect of the show, and his performance drove everyone wild. He was arguably one of the best actors in Hollywood, capable of making anyone laugh with his unique style. This is just one example, and we wish we could have seen more from him.
Harnessing the Energy of a Cat
In the early 1950s and 60s, Betty Page was a prominent figure in fetish pin-up photography, with numerous iconic photos from her career. Bunny Yeager took this particular shot and also gained fame. Yeager started out by shooting for Playboy, but he later became even more well-known.
He soon became the sought-after photographer in Miami. It’s important to remember that photography was a male-dominated industry at the time, which is why you’ll find many similar images. In 1954, she was also recognized as the most attractive photographer in the world.
Titanic
There is no doubt that the Titanic was a masterpiece among creations. Although its time was short-lived, it was undoubtedly the greatest engineering marvel. Numerous pictures exist of the Titanic’s decks.
However, not many have witnessed the part mostly submerged underwater. These enormous propellers convey the power this vessel once possessed. To date, no ship has matched the Titanic, even with technological advancements. This photo was taken at Thomas Graving Dock just before the ship was launched in 1912.
The Grim Vehicle
Anyone who loves cars and is knowledgeable about them will recognize The Macabre Mobile as one of the top collectible cars. It was featured in a movie during the 1980s, and you can see Elvira posing with the car in this photo. Following this movie, the mobile also appeared in other films.
You’ll also find it in publications from that time, such as Elvira’s comic books and calendars. Of course, you might not be able to acquire it now unless you find someone who collected them. However, we love the photo, as it exudes confidence and allure.
In Harmony With Nature
In the 1970s, the hippie movement was prevalent, with many individuals embracing nature and hugging trees. A quintessential example of this movement is the woman shown in the picture embracing a tree unclothed. It’s crucial to highlight the significance of nature in our hectic lives today.
The concept of being disconnected from nature is referred to as nature deficit disorder. When you’re not in touch with nature, it can deteriorate your mental and physical health. This serves as a reminder to engage with nature today and enhance your well-being for the long term.
The Tree That Swallowed a Bicycle
This is the renowned Vashon Island Bike Tree. According to the story, an eight-year-old in the 1950s left his bike here and never returned for it. Over time, the bike and the tree grew together into a single entity. The exact way this happened is unclear, but various legends offer different explanations for the phenomenon. It presents a striking image, illustrating how human technology and inventions can influence nature. The takeaway is to never leave your bicycle in the wild.
Pam Grier During the 1970s
Foxy Brown is a 1974 film starring Pam Grier, and this image is from her role in that film. The movie tells the story of a woman seeking revenge after her boyfriend, a government agent, is shot on her doorstep. Her character was remarkable for its blend of fierceness and sensuality.
If you haven’t seen this movie yet, we highly recommend watching Pam Grier’s outstanding performance. Quentin Tarantino admired her so much that he cast her as the lead in his 1997 film Jackie Brown.
Star of Star Trek
Emily Banks appeared in an episode of the original Star Trek series, portraying the character Yeoman Tonia Barrows. The episode, titled “Shore Leave,” aired during the 1960s. Banks began her acting career in 1960, featuring in various advertisements and TV commercials for a beer company. Additionally, clips from the 1963 game show “Say When,” where she appeared as a model, showcase her early work. Around this period, she also started taking on more TV and film roles. Her acting was impressive, and her charm was unparalleled.
Hong Kong Apartments
Michael Wolf, a German photographer, captured this image of Hong Kong skyscrapers for Architecture of Destiny. He was intrigued by the mega-cities in Hong Kong, and this image expresses that fascination. The intent was to depict the connection between private and public space.
The image presents modern buildings with a futuristic touch that was unique for that period. Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated cities globally, and this picture perfectly illustrates that. The photo is taken exceptionally well, and we admire it.
Impersonation of Ringo Starr
This image is from 1964, and if you aren’t familiar, it shows Alfred Hitchcock imitating Ringo Starr. We are well-acquainted with Beatlemania since the Beatles created some of the best music of the time. We’re not sure where this photo is from, but we adore it.
The only thing that would make everything come full circle is finding a photo of Ringo Starr impersonating Hitchcock. We can only hope such a picture exists. In the meantime, we’ll admire this fantastic photograph.
Janis Joplin: Young and Beautiful
Often, the most beautiful individuals encounter the most tragic conclusions, similar to Janis Joplin. This photo was captured in 1970 when she was only twenty-seven. Tragically, she also died in that same year due to a drug overdose, becoming one of many stars who passed away young.
She was expected at a recording session, but when she failed to appear, her producer became worried. He went to her residence to find her and entered her room. By that time, Joplin had already died on the floor beside her bed.
The Adventure-Seeking Grandmother
There’s nothing to see here, just a harmless granny tending to her marijuana plants as part of her daily routine. Nowadays, this wouldn’t be an issue, but we wonder if there were any repercussions when this picture was made public. Surely, no one would suspect such a sweet granny of breaking the law.
We’re certain no one would have the heart to arrest her and take her to jail. The officers probably just overlooked it and allowed her to continue. Naturally, this will become the norm now, as people are starting to cultivate these plants in their own homes.
Fun for the Entire Family
Upon first glance, you might find yourself puzzled about the scene depicted in this picture, but allow us to offer some context. This is referred to as the Goofybike, a creation by Charles Steinlauf in the 1930s. He was renowned for designing unique bicycles, and this was one of his eccentric designs that proved functional.
In the image, the mother is sewing while the whole family pedals along on the bike. It’s a Sunday, and they are all enjoying themselves, engaging in activities they love. If you ever find yourself unsure of what to do on a leisurely Sunday, you can always draw inspiration from this bike.
The History of Airplanes
Everyone is aware that the Wright brothers were the first to create an airplane. However, few people have seen what planes looked like back then. Today, airlines strive to provide a comfortable and luxurious air travel experience.
In the early 1900s, flying itself was an adventure. This is what the interior of an Imperial Airlines plane looked like. There were no reclining seats, limited legroom, and no overhead storage compartments. Planes have certainly come a long way over the years, showing how it all began.
The Behind-The-Scenes of Batman
Are you curious about how the TV series Batman was filmed? If so, you need to look no further than this picture, as it precisely illustrates what happened behind the scenes. This shot is our favorite because it’s from the opening of the series.
During this scene, Batman and Robin walked upright, and the camera filmed it from the side. The opening is extraordinary, created from such simplicity. We love that technology has the ability to transform everything completely.
A Young Jacqueline Kennedy
Everyone considered Jackie Kennedy to be incredibly charming, and young Jackie was even more so, as you can see. She was born into a wealthy family and was privileged from the beginning. Jackie first met John Kennedy in 1952 at a dinner party, as her mother was a socialite.
Just a year after they met, they got married, and we all know how the story continued. You probably haven’t seen this rare photo of her before. Even at eighteen, Jackie was charming, graceful, and poised.
Who Resembles Marilyn Monroe the Most?
Yes, competitions to determine which woman resembles Marilyn Monroe the most have indeed been held. The competition shown in the picture took place in Hastings, UK. Such contests were common, and they were organized for lookalikes of various celebrities.
For instance, there have also been lookalike contests for Charlie Chaplin. Interestingly, Charlie Chaplin himself once entered a lookalike contest for his own likeness.
Ironically, he only won third place in that contest. If that’s not a case of pure irony, then we don’t know what is. Seeing his reaction would have been priceless.
Winners’ Stand of the Miss Correct Posture Contest
You might be familiar with the annual Miss World competition. However, during the 1990s, there were other contests as well. One such competition was called the Miss Correct Posture contest. In this contest, participants had X-rays taken, and the winner was determined based on who had the best posture.
In the image above, you can see the winner and runners-up of the 1956 contest. The three women have their X-rays beside them and are holding their trophies. This contest was exclusively held in 1956 at a Chiropractors Convention.
Elvis’s Initial Leave from the Army
Elvis Presley, often referred to as the king of rock and roll, is one of the greatest American singers of all time and was the leading cultural icon of the 20th century.
th
He was a true sensation of the century and always captivated his audience with his songs.
Although many have watched Presley perform on stage, not everyone is aware that he also served in the US army. He dedicated two years to active duty. The picture above is memorable as it was the first time he received leave from the army.
Styles of Fashion in the 1970s
Many people believe that fashion in the 70s wasn’t quite up to standard, but some think it’s cool. The 70s look is still seen as vintage, and many people try to emulate it. This picture illustrates how men used to style their outfits. Additionally, you can observe the materials that were popular at that time.
Polyester and rayon were the common fabrics. These outfits were perfect for a disco party or clubbing. It would be great to see this style trending again.
A Look at Woodstock
Woodstock was among the largest music festivals in the United States. The three-day event drew people from all over the country, providing them with a space to enjoy and unwind. Engaging in music, rolling in the mud, and various other activities kept attendees occupied.
However, amidst all these activities, eating was something you definitely shouldn’t skip. This photo is a rare glimpse of the festival held in 1969. It was a busy day for those distributing food. Hopefully, they had a chance to enjoy the festival as well.
Chaplin and Keller
This is a rare photo where you can see the icons together. Charlie Chaplin and Helen Keller are two figures who need no introduction. Their contributions to the entertainment industry speak for themselves.
This photograph was captured when Keller visited Chaplin’s shoot. At that time, Chaplin was working on “Sunnyside.” Both icons spent quality time together. Many say Helen came to thank Chaplin for his projects supporting the deaf community. This is a moment that will always be remembered.
Ms. Peterson
While other actresses aimed to take on roles that depicted them as Barbie dolls, Cassandra Peterson chose a different path. Known for her portrayal of Elvira, Peterson was one of the most well-known celebrities in the 80s.
Her role as Elvira became so iconic that it became her stage name. Many people don’t even know her real name. In the image above, she is dressed as Elvira and ready to head out. She consistently impressed her youthful fans and continues to work on projects to keep them entertained.
Creator of Comic Book Characters
Captain America, Hulk, and Black Panther are among the most beloved comic book characters today. However, you might not be familiar with Jack Kirby. He is the co-creator of all the characters mentioned above. Jack Kirby was one of the genius minds who provided us with these strong characters that we all adore.
Jack Kirby contributed not only to the entertainment industry but also served in World War II and returned as a veteran. In the photo above, you can see Jack Kirby after he came back from the war, continuing his work in comics.
Joe Cocker’s performance at Woodstock
Joe Cocker was among the numerous artists who performed at the Woodstock music festival in 1969. The festival concluded with a spectacular performance by Joe Cocker. It was the final day of the event and one of the greatest performances of his career.
Some people believed that it was the use of brown acid that resulted in such a performance. However, Cocker later clarified in an interview that he wasn’t even offered the acid. He was sober and focused during his performance. It was the audience that inspired him to perform with such enthusiasm.
KISS Wandering Through New York City
The KISS band requires no introduction as they were the most famous rock band of the 20th century.
th
The rock band, established in 1973, had a memorable original lineup. Over time, the band evolved for various reasons, but the original members shaped the band into what it is today.
In this picture, you can see the original lineup of KISS in New York City. This was during the band’s early years as they were beginning to grow and establish themselves in the music industry. This is a rare photograph.
Nineteen
TH
Advice on Marriage from a Bygone Era
Before getting married, it’s crucial to ensure that you know your partner well and are making the right decision. This is something that requires careful consideration. However, if you encounter any issues, you can refer to this marriage advice book published in the 19th century.
th
Many people claim that it’s an old book, but its advice might still be beneficial. You never know when it could assist you and prevent you from making a poor choice. There’s no question that advising against marriage is still a suggestion you might give to your closest friends.
The McDonald’s of Old
McDonald’s is one of the oldest fast food chains worldwide. It was the first chain to introduce fast food to the world. Established in 1955, the chain initially operated on a small scale, but it was waiting for Ray Kroc to take his first hamburger.
Since then, the fast food chain has experienced a new era. Now “Over 99 Billion Sold” is a familiar sight, but it all began in the 70s. In the picture above, you can see the McDonald’s menu from the 70s, which shows how it has evolved and remains a leading fast food chain.
Robert Plant and His Family
Led Zeppelin was the first English rock band formed in the late 60s. Since then, the band has released some of the best songs. Robert Plant, as the band’s lead singer, is considered one of the most beloved singers of all time. He was the voice of Led Zeppelin.
Many people saw him with the band, but very few knew about his family. Here is a rare picture of Robert Plant with his family in Wales. This picture was taken near their home in Wales and it seems like they returned from a long walk.
A Source of Inspiration for the Legends
To understand what it means to inspire legendary musicians like David Bowie and the Rolling Stones, one should examine Claudia Lennear. A soul singer, she performed with Tina and Ike Turner and also sang backup for Humble Pie.
Lennear’s rewarding career began in the early 70s, during which she also appeared in the film “Thunderbolt and Lightfoot.”
In addition to her music career, Lennear was featured in the 1974 Brown Sugar issue of Playboy Magazine. Eventually, she left the entertainment world and pursued a career as a teacher.
The Cast of American Graffiti
If you have watched the 1973 movie American Graffiti, you might recognize these faces. Indeed, it is Ron Howard and Cindy Williams sitting on the stairs during the film’s 1973 shoot. This project was undoubtedly the one that launched both stars’ careers.
Following this, Howard and Williams had the opportunity to star in sitcoms. Everyone has to start somewhere, and now they are senior stars in the industry. “Time certainly flies when you have a lot to do,” Howard mentioned in an interview.
The Legendary BMW R11
The BMW R series motorbikes are among the most powerful bikes you’re likely to encounter. However, it all began with the BMW R11 series in 1929, which were the first to be produced. Many people found the design of these bikes amusing.
The R11 series was manufactured for just six years, with about 75,000 units produced. Not many people are aware of this bike, which is why this picture of the series is rare. Today, BMW produces some of the most extraordinary motorbikes in the world.
The Recorder from the 70s
You might spot these gadgets in movies set in the past, as they were widely used across the globe. It wasn’t just a cassette player but also a recorder that simplified tasks for many individuals.
Every journalist carried one in their bag. Likewise, many people had these at home to record their favorite TV shows and sports games. This convenient gadget was a staple in every household. Viewing this image might jog your memory. From the 60s onwards, the voice recorder developed and eventually led to the Sony Walkman.