Life looked a lot different for Virginia in the 1950s. This is the decade we most often refer to as "vintage," with its sock hops, rock n' roll, and the invention of the television. But as is true with all eras in American history, this decade was not without its hardships. These pictures provide a glimpse of what life was like in the Old Dominion more than 60 years ago. From families on vacation to men at work, these pictures show a little bit of everything.
1. Lord Paget Motor Inn in Williamsburg
Bathing suits looked a lot different then, but some of these styles are back in fashion.
2. Roanoke Train Station of Norfolk and Western railroad (1950)
3. Construction of I-95 through Richmond (1958)
The original builders of I-95 probably had no idea how much traffic this route would experience.
4. Bridge cleaning and maintenance in Yorktown (1951)
5. The Skylark Motel in Springfield
The television in the corner of the room is what dates this photograph.
6. Dunes Lounge in Virginia Beach
This lively late-50s scene could have been straight from a movie.
7. Richmond's Tobacco Festival parade (1953)
8. Hull Street Diner scene in Richmond (1955)
9. Telephone room operators (1955)
10. Backyard gathering in Williamsburg
11. Tennis practice (1956)
12. Photos with the Easter bunny (1959)
You have to admit that the Easter bunny looks slightly more menacing than he does these days.
13. A miner and his family in Tazewell (1950)
14. Bootmaker's shop in colonial Williamsburg (1953)
Did you experience Virginia in the 1950s? Be sure to share your stories with us!
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