If you are an Alpha generation, Generation Z, or even a Millennial, these next images might seem as if they were pulled out of ancient History however, if you are a mature babyboomer or Generation X, they will take you down memory lane and clean the dust off that precious and wonderful era.
Barbara Eden’s Baby Shower, 1965
In the below photo, a very happy Barbara Eden, actress, and soon-to-be mother celebrates her 1965 baby shower alongside friends Dawn Wells, Shelley Fabares and Lori Nelson. Eden was captivated audiences on TV all across America with her mystical alter ego on her role in the sitcom, “I Dream of Jeannie.” Throughout the shows’ episodes, the beautiful Eden stars as a genie in a bottle, whose bottle was discovered on a deserted island by a stranded astronaut called Tony Nelson.
Eden went on to film the unaired pilot of the 1973 television short, “The Barbara Eden Show,” as well as the pilot for the 1973 TV movie, “The Toy Game.” Following her many successful hits on-screen, Eden went on to write several books about her life and career, including her memoir, “Jeannie Out of the Bottle.”
A Young, Brace-faced Farrah Fawcett Appears on "The Dating Game", 1969
In the photo below, we see a brace-wearing, young Farrah Fawcett. She first appeared on Hollywood’s radar back in 1968, when she signed a $350 contract with the American film company, Screen Gems. Her acting career was jumpstarted with a series of guest roles and appearances on a number of television shows and commercials for products like Noxzema Max Factor and Beautyrest mattress, among many others. She starred in her first film, the French romantic drama “Love is a Funny Thing,” in 1969.
Fawcett would continue her television legacy, appearing in a recurring role on the TV detective show “Harry-O,” which ran from 1974 to 1976. She would also go on to appear in the American TV series, “The Six Million Dollar Man,” a show about a cyborg-like astronaut, where she would meet her then-husband, Lee Majors. Sadly, this internationally recognized actress passed away on June 25th, 2009, at the age of 62.
The Groovy Dawn Wells, 1965
Taken in 1965, the photograph below captures a shot of the beautiful American actress, Dawn Wells, as she elegantly posing for the camera. Of Wells' many appearances on TV and film, she is most known for her recurring role on the 1960s CBS American sitcom, "Gilligan’s Island." In this series, Wells plays Mary Ann Summers, a farm girl who lived in the town of Winfield, Kansas, before becoming stranded on Gilligan’s Island.
In addition to acting on Gilligan’s Island, Wells has also appeared in more than 150 television shows, as well as 7 motion picture films, some of which include the 1975 adventure western film, “Winterhawk,” the comedy “Super Sucker,” the 1964 drama, “The New Interns,” “It’s Our Time” (2013), and most recently, the 2012 film, “Silent But Deadly.” Sadly, Dawn Wells passed away in December 2020; she was 82-years-old.
Elinor Donahue, Ron Howard and Andy Griffith, Posing for a Holiday Publicity Photo for “The Andy Griffith Show”, 1960
Below, actors Elinor Donahue, Ron Howard, and Andy Griffith strike a pose, as they take a picture for a Holiday promotional photograph for “The Andy Griffith Show” in 1960. The iconic Andy Griffith Show captured viewers from all over, as it followed the life of the fictional lead character Andy Taylor (played by Andy Griffith), a widowed country-bumpkin sheriff in charge of the tiny town of Mayberry, North Carolina.
The show went on to run for a total of 8 seasons, lasting from 1960, up until 1968. Following Donahue’s last role as Judge Marie Anderson in the soap opera, “The Young and the Restless", she eventually chose to step out of the limelight. Today, she is happy to lead a life away from the cameras. “As far as I know, and nobody knows what’s around the corner, it’s no more,” she said. “I’m done, finished… But all told, it was all just so magical. Honestly, I’ve had a lot of fun.”
Happy Day’s Chachi (Scott Baio) and Joanie (Erin Moran) Go to the Beach, 1981
Pictured in the vintage picture below is Happy Day’s much-loved television couple, Chachi Arcola (played by Scott Baio) and Joanie Cunningham (played by Erin Moran), having a very happy day at the beach back in 1981. Fan favorites of the widely successful show, in 1982 these Happy Day characters would go on to star in their very own spinoff show, “Joanie Loves Chachi.”
In addition to Chachi and Joanie, the series also featured characters like Al Delvecchio (played by Al Molinaro), Chachi’s stepfather and former owner of Happy Day’s fictional Arnold’s Drive-In. In addition, Chachi’s mother, Louisa Delvecchio (played by Ellen Travolta), was also a member of this Happy Days spinoff. Years later, Travolta and Baio would again work together in 1984, co-starring as mother and son duo in the hit American television sitcom, “Charles in Charge.”
Donna Douglas as ‘Elly May Clampett’ - The Beverly Hillbillies, 1962
Pictured below is famed actress and singer, Donna Douglass, as the character Elly May Clampett from the hit ‘60s CBS television series, “The Beverly Hillbillies.” A role Douglass played from 1962 to 1971, she captured the hearts of viewers with her performance as a sweet and animal-loving daughter; the only child of characters Jed and Rose Ellen Clampett. Born in an East Baton Rouge Parish of Louisiana, reflecting her Hillbilly character, in real life Douglass was also an “honest-to-goodness critter loving Southern Belle.”
Douglass also appeared in what is still considered today as one of the most famous episodes of “The Twilight Zone”: “Eye of the Beholder.” In addition to her acting career, in 2013, Douglass also published her “nostalgic” cookbook, “Southern Favorites with a Taste of Hollywood.”
Heather Thomas, aka ’Jody Banks’ - The Fall Guy From 1981-86
Pictured in the photograph below is popular actress Heather Thomas as the popular character ‘Jody Banks’, on the show, “The Fall Guy,” a role which Banks played from 1981 to 1986. The basis of this series? A plot widely revolving around “The adventures of a film stunt performer who moonlights as a bounty hunter when movie work is slow.”
The TV series is known for its frequent celebrity cameos, as well as its occasional in-joke references of the series, “The Six Million Dollar Man,” one of Major’s previously starring roles. Before her breakout role as Banks on “The Fall Guy,” Thomas first entered the limelight at the young age of 14, acting as a host and celebrity interviewer on the NBC series, “Talking with a Giant.”
Tommy Chong: Comedian, Actor and Father of Six
Pictured below is the widely known comedian, actor, writer, and musician Thomas B. Kin Chong, most known as Tommy Chong to both fans and critics alike. Notoriously known for his efforts as an activist in the fight for cannabis rights, Chong’s success is due largely in part to his marijuana-centered comedy series of which Chong is most known for, “Cheech & Chong.”
Aside from the series Chong starred in alongside his fellow comedic partner in crime, Cheech Marin, Cheech and Chong are also known for their numerous musical albums. And while the idea of Chong as a father would most likely be viewed as another one of the infamous comedian’s jokes, in reality, Tommy Chong is actually considered “quite the family man.” In total, throughout his marriages, notorious stoner-turned-family-man would go on to raise a whopping six children.
Host Allen Funt Smiling for the Camera on ’Smile, You’re on Candid Camera!’ (1948-1990)
Smile, you’re on ‘Candid Camera’! Here, Allen Funt, host of the hit, 1940s American reality series, “Candid Camera”, flashes a grin alongside a woman holding a sign with the show’s title. Considered America’s favorite hidden camera and practical joke reality TV series, Candid Camera was created and produced by Funt. While the show was initially broadcast on the radio as “The Candid Microphone,” its first broadcast being released on June 28th, 1947.
Funt’s reality show soon transitioned over to television, and on August 10th, 1948, the series’ first episode was aired across TVs across the U.S. and would stay on air well into the 1970s. Throughout this show, those being pranked were faced with unusually silly situations and objects, such as talking mailboxes, and throwing a bowling ball, only to have the ball returned to them without any finger wholes on it. For the most part, people on the show were in complete bewilderment, up until they heard the show’s familiar tagline, “Smile! You’re on Candid Camera.”
The Incredible Mr. Limpet: Man Turned Animated, Talking Fish, 1964
Featured in the below photo is a shot from the American live-action/animated adventure movie, “The Incredible Mr. Limpet” (1964). Based on the 1942 novel, “Mr. Limpet, this Warner Bros. film follows the story of a man by the name of Henry Limpet (played by leading actor Don Knotts), a “mild-mannered man” turned animated talking fish. Taking place in World War II, Limpet, who takes on the appearance of a tilefish, ultimately aids the U.S. Navy in locating and destroying Nazi submarines.
Best known for his five-time Emmy-winning role as the “over-anxious” Deputy Sheriff Barney Fife on the 1960s sitcom, The Andy Griffith Show—a show which earned him five Emmys—Knotts also acted as the leading man in a number of other comedic films. In 1979, TV Guide even ranked Knotts #27 on its “50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time” list! The onscreen dynamic between Andy Griffith and Knotts propelled the two actors to the very top of the list of the best comedy duos in the entire history of television. In 2006, Knotts died from lung cancer complications at the age of 82.
Veronica Hamel: Supporting Actress in the 1979 Film, “Beyond the Poseidon Adventure”
The below photo is of actress and fashion model, Veronica Hamel. First discovered by Eileen Ford, Hamel first entered the limelight through a career as a fashion model. Interestingly enough, in her first film role in the 1971 film, “Klute”, Hamel actually played the role of a model! Following this breakout role into the film industry, this model-turned-actress later landed a supporting role in the disaster movie sequel, “Beyond The Poseidon Adventure” (1979), and again in “When Time Ran Out” (1980).
Of Hamel’s many acting performances over the years, she is most remembered for the recurring role of Choice Davenport on the long-running television series, “Hill Street Blues”, for which she received five Emmy nominations. Hamel was actually considered for the role of Kelly Garrett on the hit show “Charlie’s Angels,” but ultimately turned down the role. Hamel went on to act in a number of TV movies and series, appearing in recurring roles on shows like “Philly”, and “Lost", in which she played Margo Shepherd, the mother of the show’s main character, Jack Shephard.
Moviegoers Wait in Line to Watch “The Exorcist” in Theaters, 1973
The below photo depicts the overwhelmingly large amount of people that anxiously waited in long lines out-the-door and around-the-corner, just to buy a ticket to see the 1973 horror film, “The Exorcist.” Released in cinemas on December 26th, 1973, this image illustrates the astonishing popularity of the film labeled as “one of the greatest horror films of all time”, both at the time of its release and up until today. The movie proved itself a “major commercial success”, bringing in a whopping $441 million worldwide!
Believe it or not, this terrifying horror classic is actually based on a true story. Indeed, the novel that inspired the movie, written by author William Peter Blatty, is actually based on the real-life exorcism of a young boy, known by the pseudonym Roland Doe, in 1949. After hearing about the exorcism on national news, Blatty, a student at Georgetown University at the time, soon became intrigued with the story, and ended up writing a novel based upon these terrifying real-life events.
Siblings Share a Coke, 1956
As the old saying goes, “Sharing is caring!” The below photo, captured in 1956, perfectly (and adorably) highlights this concept, as one sister is captured sharing her Coke with her fellow sibling. Coca-Cola was first introduced to the public on May 8th, 1886, by a curious, Atlanta-based pharmacist by the name of Dr. John S. Pemberton.
While Pemberton is credited with creating this famously “distinctive tasting soft drink,” it was his bookkeeper, Frank M. Robinson, that is credited with not only naming Pemberton’s soda drink “Coca-Cola,” but is also known as the man who designed the “trademarked, distinct script” stilled used by Coca-Cola today.
Helen Mirren, The Triple Crown of the Acting World, Posing During Her Performance With the Royal Shakespeare Company in Troilus and Cressida (June, 1968)
Few actors and actresses are able to achieve what Shakespearean actress and A-list movie star, Helen Mirren has achieved: the “Triple Crown of Acting: Academy Award, Emmy Award, and Tony Award.” Born in 1945 as Ilynea Lydia Mironoff, Mirren first began her formal acting career after joining the Royal Shakespeare Company in the late 1960s. Though nominated twice before for an Emmy, it was Mirren’s 2007 performance as Queen Elizabeth II in the critically acclaimed film, “The Queen” that would finally earn the actress the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Additionally, Mirren would also go on to win an Oliver Award for Best Actress, for her performance in the drama, “The Audience” in 2013, a role in which she again acted as Queen Elizabeth II. In 2003, Mirren was formally recognized for her years of dedication and talent in the world of the Performing Arts after being appointed as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for Services to the Performing Arts.
Julie Christie as 'Lara' in Dr. Zhivago (1965)
The below photograph is a shot of actress Julie Christie, appearing as the female love interest in the classic novel turned blockbuster hit, “Dr. Zhivago,” filmed in 1965. Though widely popular in the West at the time of its publication, not surprisingly, this book was banned in the Soviet Union. As a result, the production of the film was unable to be carried out anywhere near the borders of the powerful, socialist state. Instead, filmmakers chose to shoot this epic love story in Spain.
Interestingly enough, while a majority of the movie is set in a snow-covered, icy tundra, in reality, most of these dramatic, snow-clad scenes were filmed in Spain, during the country’s hot, sunny summer months. This epic film would go on to win a record-breaking five Oscars, taking home the winning nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design.
Legendary Rockers Ted Nugent and Bob Seger Side-by-side,1972
The below photo of American singer-songwriters Ted Nugent and Bob Seger was taken in 1972, while the two performed together at several venues. At the time this photograph was taken, Nugent was a part of the Chicago-based American rock band “Amboy Dukes,” which is credited with helping Nugent first rise to fame. During this time, he was the lead guitarist of the musical group. First formed back in 1963, the Amboy Dukes were known for playing an interestingly unique musical combination of hard and psychedelic rock. Nugent eventually parted ways with the band, in order to pursue his career as a solo artist.
Approximately a year after this photo was captured, Bob Seger would go on to form the “Silver Bullet Band,” which was comprised of a group of Detroit-based musicians. In addition to his work with the Silver Bullet Band, throughout his musical career, Seger was also known for his extensive work with a number of other talented musicians. Similar to Nugent, Seger would also go on to pursue a solo career in music. Today, both Nugent and Seger still tour and perform their music all over the country.
George Harrison and Pattie Boyd,1968
The below photograph features Beatles’ guitar player and singer/songwriter George Harrison, alongside model, photographer and author Pattie Boyd, his former wife. At the time, Boyd was caught in between one of rock and roll history’s most infamous love triangles, between Harrison and Eric Clapton. In fact, one of Clapton’s most famous songs, “Layla” and a majority of the other songs on his album, “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs” were actually written about his real-life love with Boyd, still Harrison’s wife at the time.
When Clapton first wrote this song of unrequited love for Boyd, surprisingly enough, Harrison and Clapton were actually best friends at the time. However, after suffering through Harrison’s nonstop infidelity and outright disrespect, Boyd soon became fed up with his antics, and eventually decided to leave Harrison to be with Clapton. Though she chose to leave Harrison for Clapton, Boyd, now 74-years old, still maintained her friendship with Harrison. The two would remain lifelong friends until he lost his battle with cancer and passed away in 2001.
The Swedish Model and Actress Maud Adams, in 1966
Pictured in the below photo is head-turning Sweedish actress Maud Solveig Christina Adams. Best known for her portrayal of not one, but two Bond girls in the iconic James Bond films—the first being “The Man with the Golden Gun” (1974), the second being the “eponymous” character in “Octopussy” (1983). In addition to her iconic roles in the James Bond movie franchise, little known to many of her fans, Adams also appeared briefly in an uncredited role in the film “A View to a Kill” (1985).
It wasn’t until her role as “the doomed mistress of the villain” in the Bond movie, “The Man with the Golden Gun” that Adams was truly recognized as the ultimate face of international beauty and fame. Looking back on her appearances as minor characters in the Bond films over 30 years ago, Adams, now 74 years of age, still reflects back on roles like that of the infamous seductress, Octopussy.
And Scene! Lucille Ball and John Wayne Posing During a Scene From “The Lucy Show” (1966)
Below, America’s favorite goofy redhead actress Lucille Ball gives actor John Wayne something to talk about! A scene from a classic episode of “The Lucy Show,” aired on November 21, 1966, in this episode of the comedy television series, “Mr. Mooney sends Lucy to deliver some papers pertaining to the financing of John Wayne’s latest production. Despite his orders to drop off the papers with one of the studio’s secretaries, Lucy insists on meeting Mr. Wayne in person at lunch and spills ketchup all over him. She then trails him to his movie set and causes all sorts of havoc.”
The oldest of two siblings, growing up Ball viewed herself as a tomboy, and not one who enjoyed frilly, fancy ribbons. Due to her somewhat boyish nature, she often rough-housed with her father, bonding time which would later further Ball’s rowdy, loud personality and demeanor. Because of Ball’s large amounts of high, often unmanageable energy, when doing laundry Ball’s mother would actually put a leash around her rambunctious daughter, to ensure she stayed close and caused as little trouble as possible.
TV’s Adam West and Batdog: the Ultimate Superhero Duo
Below we see TV's Adam West, posing on the beach with none other than his trusty Great Dane sidekick, Batdog! Beginning his acting career in the 1950s, West is most known for his iconic role of Batman, in the Batman television series. In recent years, West appeared as a cartoon version of himself on Nickelodeon’s “The Fairly OddParents” (2003–2008). Additionally, he also held a recurrent role as a cartoon version of himself as the mayor of Quahog, on the hit TV comedy, Family Guy and on The Simpsons .
On the big screen, West appeared as a wealthy husband who meets his untimely death in Paul Newman's The Young Philadelphians (1959), and in 1964, the role of one of the first two humans to arrive on Mars in “Robinson Crusoe on Mars.” Though West sadly passed away at the age of 88, on June 9th, 2017, his legacy still continues to live on to this day.
Italian Film Star Claudia Cardinale Looking off into the Distance During an Event in 1963
The photograph below captures the beautiful Claudia Cardinale: an Italian film star who successfully captured the hearts of millions of adoring fans all over the world. Blessed with much more than just beauty, Cardinale’s raw talent is exemplified in her performances in films, including, “Girl with a Suitcase” (1961), “The Leopard” (1963), and Federico Fellini’s "8½" (1963).
Though Cardinale first caught the attention of Europeans through her performances in a myriad of hit European films throughout the 1960s and ‘70s, it was not long before this Italian film actress and international sex symbol became a household name in the U.S., and later the rest of the world, through her iconic performance in the film, “ The Pink Panther.”
Family Feud: the Soap-operish Antics of the Campbells and the Tates (1977-1981)
Pictured in the below photo is the cast of “Soap,” a popular comedic television show following the “soap-operish antics” of the Campbell and Tate families. On air from 1977 to 1981, this primetime comedy show was created as a parody of television soap operas. As if the premise behind the series wasn’t funny enough, the hilarious acting performances of cast members like Katherine Helmond, Richard Mulligan, and a young Billy Crystal only made this comedic parody series even better.
By bringing topics like homosexuality, prostitution, and murder to the screen—subjects considered taboo in the late 1970s—“Soap” was a show considered way ahead of its time, on multiple levels. Throw in alien abductions, demonic possession, and a little kidnapping on the side, and you’ve got yourself a bold, iconic television show, one which quickly earned itself a loyal, dedicated fanbase! Not known to many of the sitcom’s fans, this controversial show was actually almost canceled before being aired on TV!
On Set: Audrey Hepburn - ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’, 1961
The photo below illustrates the style, class, and beauty that is Audrey Hepburn: the “sweet-natured, doe-eyed British actress,” whose iconic performance in the film, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961) made her an overnight success in the world of film and fashion. However, despite her instant rise to fame in Hollywood, as the years passed by, Hepburn found herself spending less and less time acting in films, dedicating more of her time to her work with the United Nations Children’s Fund.
Despite her decreased appearance in the limelight, still, Hepburn’s fanbase remained stronger than ever. To this day, she remains one of America’s most beloved sweethearts. Her activist work with the UN eventually led to her position as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, where she worked alongside volunteers in some of the poorest and most destitute communities across Africa, South America, and Asia.
“You Light Up My Life” Hit Songwriter Debby Boone
Lighting up our lives in the portrait below is critically acclaimed singer, author, and actress Debby Boone, singer/songwriter of the 1977 hit single, “You Light Up My Life.” Noted as one of the most popular songs of the 1970s, it was this very song that first brought Boone to fame. Following the single’s release, the song spent a record-breaking 10 weeks as No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100-chart. It was not until 1991—an astonishing 14 years later—that pop band Boyz II Men would finally take over the songs’ spot on the charts, claiming the title for a total of 13 weeks.
Following her nearly unrivaled success with her hit single, Boone went on to transition over into the world of country music, where she proved her worth as more than just a one-hit-wonder. In 1980, the release of her No. 1 hit country song, “Are You on the Road to Lovin’ Me Again” earned Boone’s much-praised reputation as a country singer. Later that decade, Boone would again shift musical genres, this time exploring the world of Contemporary Christian music.
A Smiling Nadia Comaneci, World-renowned Romanian Gymnast, Performing on the Floor - Summer Olympics, 1976
In her element, the below photo captures famed Romanian gymnast Nadia Comăneci as she strikes a pose during her floor exercise performance, at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Canada. During this international gymnastics competition, the talented Comăneci—only 14-years old at the time—would go down in history as the first gymnast to be awarded a perfect 10.0 score at the Olympic Games, earning not just one, but a whopping 7 perfect 10’s; a score which earned the gymnast a total of three gold medals by the end of these Olympic games.
At the next Summer Olympics, held in 1980 in Moscow, Russia, Comăneci would compete once more, scoring two more perfect 10s, earning an additional two gold medals. By the end of her career, Comăneci would go on to win a total of nine Olympic medals, as well as four World Artistic Gymnastics Championship medals. Today, she is regarded as one of the world’s top gymnasts and is widely known for successfully popularizing this sport across the globe.
They’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat. Happy Fishermen Pose With Their 300-lb Halibut Prize - Alaska, 1969
Now that’s a big fish! The photo below perfectly captures the emotions felt by two lucky fishermen, just moments after successfully catching a whopping 300-pound halibut fish off the coast of Alaska back in 1969. Originally submitted on Reddit by the son of the bearded fisherman on the right, it was not long before this vintage photo of the Reddit user’s dad and his old friend posing alongside their enormous trophy fish soon went viral.
And as if the size of the Halibut pictured below isn't unbelievable enough, believe it or not, bigger fishes have been caught. Currently, the record for the largest Pacific Halibut was broken in 1996, after fishermen caught an Alaskan Halibut weighing in at 459 pounds.
There She is… ‘Miss America’ Phyllis George of Denton, Texas Receiving Her Crown From Her Predecessor, Miss America 1970 - 1971
Pictured below is none other than beauty queen Phyllis George, of Denton, TX. First crowned Miss Texas in 1970, George went on to win yet another crown, earning the prestigious title of Miss America in 1971. She also held the title of First Lady of Kentucky from 1971, up until 1983. Despite her image as a successful beauty queen, George—also a businesswoman, actress, and former sportscaster—ultimately proved to be much more than just a pretty face.
In 1975, she joined the cast of The NFL Today. Here, she acted as co-host for the live pregame shows aired before the National Football League’s games. In fact, George was actually one of the first women to hold a prominent role in the world of national television sports coverage, paving the way for many more women after her.
Tattoo the Martian and Mr. Roarke - Fantasy Island, 1977
Taken during one 1977 episode of the television series “Fantasy Island,” here Tattoo (played by Hervé Villechaize) stands alongside a kneeling Mr. Roarke (played by Ricardo Montalbán). Created by Gene Levitt, the ABC-made, classic television series “Fantasy Island” was on the air from 1977 to 1984, and then again for one 1998–99 season.
Starring the two characters seen in the photo below, this show takes place on an extraordinary resort island located somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. On this seemingly perfect Utopia-like island, guests travel far and wide to reach the mysterious island, in order to live out their ultimate fantasies…for a price.
An Oscar-winning Performance: Sally Field as “Norma Rae” (1979)
In the below photo, A-list actress Sally Field poses as Norma Rae, in the 1979 film, which would later earn her an Oscar for Best Actress in 1980. The drama follows Norma Rae's life, a worker at a local textile mill, as she goes against her family and employers' wishes, in order to lead a shutdown to protest the mill’s poor working conditions. Sally Field first rose to fame as a much-loved actress thanks to roles in popular sitcoms like “Gidget”, “The Flying Nun” and “The Girl with Something Extra” (1973-1974). In 1977, Field would take on her first-ever film role, in the movie “Smokey and the Bandit.”
It was not until 1979 that Fields would win the Academy Award for Best Actress, for her outstanding acting performance in “Norma Rae.” Of the many nominations and awards Fields’ has collected over the span of her acting career, some of the most notable include her 1985 Academy Award nomination and win in the “Best Actress in a Leading Role” category for her performance in the 1984 film, “Places in the Heart,” and her 2013 nomination for her compelling performance as Mary Todd Lincoln—Abraham Lincoln’s wife—in 2012.
Betty White and Lorne Greene Host the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,1968
In the below photograph sits the legendary, eccentric actress Betty White, alongside “Bonanza” actor Lorne Green, as they host the 1968 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. For Americans, this celebrated New York City parade is just as much of a holiday tradition as is turkey, football and awkward family conversations at the Thanksgiving table. Back in the day, White and Green were regular hosts of this annual parade, hosting this traditional Thanksgiving for 9 straight years, from 1962 to 1971.
It was in 1968, the very year this photo was taken, that the iconic Snoopy balloon made its first official debut in the parade. While this quintessential Thanksgiving event first started back in 1924, it was not until the 1927 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade that balloons appeared among the parade’s display. Before this, believe it or not, the first three years of this parade featured not floating fantasy creatures, but actual real-life animals from the Central Park Zoo!
“Raw Wind in Eden”: A Fashion Model, a Playboy, a Crash Landing...and a Mystery Man (1958)
The below photo features the starring cast members of the 1958 film, “Raw Wind in Eden." Originally titled, “The Islander,” the plot of this film-noir adventure/thriller follows the story of a fashion supermodel named Laura (played by actress as Esther Williams, pictured below) and her playboy friend Wally Drucker (played by actor Carlos Thompson) in the events following their plane's crash landing on a small Mediterranean island.
Upon surviving their plane crash, Laura and Wally find themselves on this Eden-like island, and soon become acquainted with its fellow island dwellers. As the plane crash survivors begin to live among the island locals, new relationships form and complex love triangles emerge, as Laura falls for the mysterious Moore.
Hall of Famer, Kenny “Snake” Stabler: Oakland Raiders Quarterback (1970-1979), Alongside Coach John Madden
Photographed below is legendary Hall-of-Famer Kenny “Snake” Stabler, pictured alongside his coach, John Madden. Before joining the NFL as the quarterback for the Oakland Raiders, Stabler played football for the University of Alabama Tuscaloosa. Though no one is 100% sure how exactly this famous footballer player got his nickname, Stabler always says that it originated from a comment made by his high school football coach Denzil Hollis, who said, “Damn, that boy runs like a snake,” as he watched Stabler weave in and out on the football field.
Stabler is most known for bringing the Raiders a Super Bowl XI victory in 1976. Throughout the ‘70s, Stabler’s career blossomed. In 1974, he was named NFL’s Most Valuable Player, and was even selected to hold the honorable title as a quarterback on the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team! Though Stabler passed away in July of 2015, his legacy continues to live on in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, an honor which the late football player earned posthumously in 2016, just a year after his death.
Pretty in Pink: An Especially Pink Pink Floyd,1968
Below are the especially pink members of the world-renowned rock band, Pink Floyd, posing under a pink blanket, in front of a pink background, taken in 1968. Comprised of band members (from left to right) Nick Mason, David Gilmour, Roger Waters and Richard Wright, whether it be through unique photographs like this one, or when playing live on stage in front of thousands, no matter what they do, or wherever they go, you better believe Pink Floyd will leave a lasting impression.
Though originally from London, Pink Floyd’s unique, progressive and psychedelic music style soon reached international recognition. But what made this band different from all the other psychedelic rock bands at the time was their ability to produce philosophical lyrics, lengthy musical compositions, and elaborately energetic live shows. Named by the lead singer of the band, Syd Barrett, the name was created by combining the names of two blues musicians, renowned for their bass-influenced style of picking: Pink Anderson, and Floyd Council.
Striking a Wild Pose! “Mara of the Wilderness” Co-stars Lori Saunders and Wolf, 1965
Below is a truly iconic shot of actress Lori Saunders, posing alongside her wolf co-star in the hit adventure movie, “Mara of the Wilderness” (1965). Throughout her longstanding acting career, Saunders is most known for her performance as brunette middle-sister, Bobbie Jo Bradley, on the rural situation-comedy TV series, “Petticoat Junction” (1965–1970).
Following her role as Bobbie Jo, in 1973 Saunders went on to appear as Mr. Drysdale’s secretary “Betty Gordon” in the last season of the television series, “The Beverly Hillbillies,” a show she aced on for another year, up until 1974. Additionally, from 1973 until 1974 Saunders appeared as “Betsy” on the situation-comedy western TV show—described as “a wild west version of Gilligan’s Island”— "Dusty’s Trail".
In the Studio: The Beatles and Yoko Ono, 1969
The below photo shows one of the most iconic rock legends, John Lennon with partner Yoko Ono, in a recording studio, listening to a song recorded for the film, “Let it Be Back”, in 1969. Despite the band's massive success all over the world, money and success don't always lead to happiness.
Especially in 1969, tensions were high during many of the band’s recording sessions, and it was no secret that the members of this British Invasion band were constantly at odds with each other. For Lennon, his addiction to heroin and Yoko Ono brought even more problems to the bands’ dynamic, as he was unwilling to ever be apart from Ono, since he considered them a “package deal.”
Karen Carlson Smiles for the Camera - First Primetime Episode ‘The Dating Game’, 1966
Smile for the camera! The photo below captures a whimsical moment on the hit game show, “The Dating Game.” Its first episode aired on ABC on December 20th, 1965, and lasted until July 6th, 1973. The game show's host, Jim Lange, remained The Dating Game’s host for the entirety of the series’ run on ABC network. In 1986, the show was revived for another three seasons. While Elaine Joyce hosted the revival show’s first season, the remaining two seasons were hosted by Jeff MacGregor.
While on air, “The Dating Game” was frequently paired with “The Newlywed Game,” especially when both the shows were running in syndication. In fact, these two game shows were so often paired together, that when they were revived in 1996, they were sold together as a package deal with the joint name, “The Dating-Newlywed Hour.” The daytime version of this show is widely known as the first ABC broadcast regularly shown in color.
‘The Warlocks’, Later Known by Their More Popular Band Name, the ‘Grateful Dead,’ Clowning Around in the Bay Area, 1965
This photograph captures the goofy antics of the band, 'The Warlocks'—most known by their later name, the Grateful Dead—taken while gathered in the Bay Area in 1965. Formed in 1964, ‘The Warlocks’ performed their very first gig in 1965. A year after the group’s first performance, the band would change their name to what most fans know today: The Grateful Dead.
An eclectic fusion of rock, psychedelia, country, folk, bluegrass, blues, reggae and space rock, the Grateful Dead is most known for its “lengthy live jam sessions” and unique musical style, one which has captured the hearts of so many devoted fans, that followers of the band were given their own nickname: ‘Deadheads.’ In 1995, Jerry Garcia, the band’s leading guitarist, tragically passed away at the age of 53. Despite the loss of the band’s much-loved co-founding member, the Grateful Dead still continues to tour today, performing under the name “Dead and Company.”
‘Weird Al’ Yankovic’s Queen Parody “Another One Rides the Bus,” Recorded Live on the Dr. Demento Show, 1980
Pictured below is internationally recognized musical parody artist Weird Al Yankovic (right), goofily posing alongside Barret Eugene Hansen (aka “Dr. Demento”) during the comedian’s 1980 recording of his Queen parody, “Another One Rides the Bus,” performed live on the Dr. Demento Show. Most known for his comedic remakes of popular songs and lyrics, Yankovic is internationally recognized for his eccentric image in the public eye and his uniquely goofy fashion sense.
According to Yankovic, it was his love of Elton John and his album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” in the 1970s that led him to want to learn how to play rock and roll songs on the accordion. As for his comedic influences and parody music, Yankovic credits artist like Tom Lehrer, Stan Freberg, Spike Jones, Allan Sherman, Shel Silverstein, and Frank Zappa, as well as “all the other wonderfully sick and twisted artists that he was exposed to through the Dr. Demento Radio Show.” Weird Al’s unconventional music has earned him a myriad of awards, most notable being his four Grammy Awards and 11 nominations.
Rock Band Blue Oyster Cult Poses for a City Group Shot During the Height of Their Career
Below, world-renowned classic, hard rock band, Blue Öyster Cult strikes a pose! Formed in 1967, since its creation this iconic band has sold more than 24 million records worldwide, and a staggering 7 million records in the US alone. Of its many successful hits, the band’s most widely known songs include hits like '(Don’t Fear) The Reaper', 'Godzilla' and 'Burnin’ for You'.
Though over the years, this band has had a number of different members, the combination of band members Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, Eric Bloom, Allen Lanier, Joe Bouchard, and Albert Bouchard proved to be the longest-running and most commercially successful lineup.
Louis Armstrong Serenades His Wife Lucille Wilson - The Pyramids of Giza, 1961
In the vintage black and white photo below, with the grand Egyptian Pyramids of Giza as their backdrop, internationally renowned jazz musician and singer Louis Armstrong romantically plays the trumpet for his loving wife Lucille Wilson, as she affectionately sits and watches her husband, listening with a smile: a truly iconic shot. As the world became entrapped in the age of the Cold War, and relationships between world nations became increasingly strained, the U.S. sought out a unique approach to bring the world together in this time of great international conflict. Their solution? Jazz.
During the Cold War, the U.S. government harnessed the power of jazz—a type of music unique to America at this point in history, one which was said to symbolize the harmonious fusion of African and American culture—in an attempt to demonstrate the invaluable idea of what it meant to be a part of the ‘melting pot’ of the world. To carry out this international diplomatic attempt, the U.S. sent a number of prominent jazz musicians abroad to act as ambassadors for the nation. So, in 1961, as an act of cultural diplomacy, Louis Armstrong and his wife journeyed to Egypt.
The Pretenders, 1978
Pictured below is a 1978 group shot of the original members of the legendary English-American rock band, The Pretenders. Formed in 1978, the band was composed of bass guitarist Pete Farndon, lead vocalist, primary songwriter, and rhythm guitarist Chrissie Hynde, keyboardist and lead guitarist James Honeyman-Scott and drummer and percussionist Martin Chambers. Throughout the longstanding history of this band, Hynde stood as the only consistent member of The Pretenders.
During her time as a member, Hynde would also work on a number of her own side projects, and collaborated with a long list of musicians, including Frank Sinatra, Cher, and UB40. In 2005, Hynde and The Pretenders were formally recognized for their talent and success with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Despite Honeyman-Scott’s passing in the early 1980s, during the height of the band’s success, today Hynde and Chambers still perform as members of The Pretenders.
The Carpenters: Musical Sibling Duo Karen and Richard Carpenter at a Softball Tournament,1973
The below photo captures a shot of famed vocal duo Karen and Richard Carpenter, taken at a softball tournament in 1973. These iconic siblings first rose to fame after forming their vocal and instrumental duo, the “Carpenters.” In 1969, the two signed on with A&M Records, and the rest is history. These musical siblings are most known for their distinct, soft style of music. The following year, their hit singles “(They Long to Be) Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun” were both major successes.
Though less than 10 years after releasing more than a dozen hit records with her brother Richard, Karen Carpenter would pass away from heart failure, a complication caused by anorexia nervosa at the young age of 32. Despite her passing, the Carpenters' legacy still lives on to this day. Today, more than half a dozen websites are devoted entirely to the life and career of Karen. Additionally, there are more than a few Carpenters tribute bands that tour in America, and across the U.K.
Twisting the Day Away! A Young, Happy Marine Dances the Twist With Jayne Mansfield - Newfoundland U.S. Naval Station, 1961
The below photo exhibits a clearly overjoyed, captivated Marine doing the twist with American actress and sex icon Jayne Mansfield, at the U.S. Naval Station in Newfoundland, in 1961. Infamous for her especially provocative nature, this actress, singer and Playboy Playmate always knew exactly how to appeal to her many adoring fans, always leaving them wanting more.
While in the limelight, Mansfield was notorious for her many raunchy publicity stunts, included “alleged” wardrobe malfunctions. As such, it comes as no surprise that the starlet secured her sex-icon status almost immediately after getting her big break into the entertainment industry. While she tragically passed away in an automobile accident back in 1967, at the young age of 34, the talented Mansfield was still able to see a number of box-office successes.
Lucy and Viv: The Beatniks - The Lucy Show,1967
Photographed below is a still image of actresses Lucy and Viv, dressed up as beatniks in The Lucy Show, in 1967. In line with the usual, troublemaking antics of these quirky besties throughout the show, in this particular episode, Viv flies to California to visit Lucy to admit to her that she is looking for a young college student from her hometown, whom she believes has fallen into the “no-good beatnik crowd.” To help the student, Lucy and Viv decide to disguise themselves as hippies, in order to “track the youth down.”
Believe it or not, despite Ball and Vance’s strong chemistry on the show, upon first meeting, the two didn't immediately hit it off as friends. In fact, Ball almost chose not to cast Vance on “I Love Lucy,” as Ball initially desired an older, frumpier actress to play the role of her neighbor on the show. However, Desi Arnaz believed in Vance and her exceptional work on stage and convinced Lucy that she was in fact the right actress for the job. As a result, the match turned out to be a huge success.
The Troops All Here! Members of the TV Series “F Troop” (1965-67) Poses for a Group Shot
Below, the troop of the hit TV series, “F-Troop” smiles for the camera! A satirical sitcom that ran from 1965-1967, “F-Troop” took place in 1860s Fort Courage, a fictional U.S. Army outpost in Kansas. The show is centered on the stories of U.S. soldiers and Native Americans in the wild, wild west in 1860. Though not always historically accurate, preferring instead to create parodies on historical events, the bulk of this show’s humor was largely character-based and included many visual gag slapsticks and physical comedy bits.
Many times, the comedy even included “elements of burlesque,” with no shortage of visual gags. Several of these gags recurred on more than one occasion, one of these involving Corporal Argan’s (played by actor Larry Storch) tendency to discipline his Troopers by hitting them on the head with his hat. Another recurring joke on “F-Troop” is the classic case of the malfunctioning cannon.
Actor John Belushi as Captain ‘Wild Bill’ Kelso in the 1979 Spielberg Comedy “1941” (1979)
Below is a shot of famed comedian and actor John Belushi, playing the role of Captain ‘Wild Bill’ Kelso in the 1979 comedy film, “1941.” Directed by the iconic Steven Spielberg, this film takes place during World War II and follows the story of “Hysterical Californians” as they prepare for the Japanese invasion of the U.S. in the wake of the infamous Pearl Harbor attack. While nowhere near as financially or critically successful as the majority of Spielberg’s films, still “1941” was awarded three Academy Award nominations, and eventually earned the reputation of an official “cult film.”
In addition to Belushi, other actors among the film's cast include well-known names, like Dan Aykroyd, Ned Beatty, John Candy, Christopher Lee, Toshiro Mifune, and Robert Stack. Sadly, at just 33 years old, the infamously erratic and energized Belushi tragically passed away from a drug overdose.
A ‘Happy Day’ for Newlywed “Happy Day” Cast Members Ron and Cheryl Howard on Their Wedding Day, 1975
The below picture captures a “real-life happy day” moment from the “Happy Day” cast members and newlyweds, Ron and Cheryl Howard on their wedding day, posing happily alongside 'Happy Days' co-stars Don Most, Anson Williams and Tom Bosley, in 1975. Ever since his breakout childhood role of little Opie Taylor on “The Andy Griffith Show,” Ron Howard has continued to succeed as a professional TV actor. Eventually, Howard transitioned from acting to directing, quickly establishing himself as a multi-talented actor and award-winning director.
He has directed a wide array of films, some of which include “Backdraft,” “Apollo 13,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels & Demons.” Eventually, his directing work would earn him the Academy Award for Best Director, as well as Best Picture, for the film “A Beautiful Mind.” In 2002, Howard became widely known by fans as the narrator of the hilarious television series, “Arrested Development,” a show which he also produced and appeared in, as a “semi-fictionalized” version of himself.
The American Chopper: the Epitome of Coolness in the 1970s
The below picture of a cool dude in “groovy threads,” sitting upon his motorcycle throne, was an image quite common in the decade of disco. Indeed, in the age of the groovy ‘70s, a chopper—otherwise known as a custom motorcycle—was considered the ultimate symbol of coolness. First appearing in California back in the late 1950s, custom choppers are most known for their ability to turn at extreme angles, and its lengthened fork, a part of the motorcycle that connects the vehicle's front wheel and axle to its frame.
Of the many choppers that emerged during the 1970s, the most famous of these were two customized Harley-Davidsons: the “Captain America” chopper, and the “Billy Blake”—a chopper first popularized by the 1969 film, “Easy Rider." While the popularity of the chopper exploded in the 1970s, the chopper movement first began in the U.S. post-World War II, ignited by GI’s returning home from the war, who desired motorcycles comparable to the faster, sleeker bikes they were exposed to while serving in Europe.
The Real Girl From Ipanema’ - The Girl Behind the Song, 17-year-old Helo Pinheiro
‘The Girl from Ipanema’: a song jazz-lovers all over the world have come to know and love. But what is the story behind the song? Who was the girl from Ipanema? Meet Helo Pinheiro: the actual girl from Ipanema; the inspiration behind this iconic 1962 song. At just 17-years-old, Pinheiro became the ultimate musical muse for this world-renowned Bossa Nova jazz song after writers of the song, composer Antônio Carlos Jobim and poet Vinicius de Moraes, spotted the young bikini-clad girl—“tall and tan and lovely”—venturing to a beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1962.
Jobim and de Moraes would ultimately use Pinheiro as the inspiration when they created this ultimate Bossa nova classic. In 1984, decades after the release of this hit song, Pinheiro became a Brazilian Playboy Playmate. In 2003, she again posed for a pictorial, this time alongside her daughter, Ticiane Pinheiro. In 2016, a 71-year-old Pinhero ventured back to her old beach hangout, holding the prestigious position of a flame carrier for the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio.
Jayne Mansfield & Her Dogs, 1966
As seen in this photograph with her two dogs, Jayne Mansfield is known as one of the first Playboy Playmates and a huge Hollywood sex symbol throughout the 1950s and into the early 60s. By the time this photo was taken, Mansfield was already onto her second husband, Mickey Hargitay, whom she married in 1958. Throughout the couple’s marriage, the two made a total of four movies together: “Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?” (1957), “The Loves of Hercules” (1960), “Promises! Promises!” (1963), and “L’Amore Primitivo” (1964).
As an actress, many of Mansfield's films were considered major box-office successes. Her performance in “Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter” even won her a Theatre World Award, as well as a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year in 1957, for her starring role in the 1956 musical comedy “The Girl Can’t Help It.” Sadly, in 1967, this actress's successful career came to an abrupt, tragic end after she passed away in a fatal car accident at the young age of 34.
Mohammad Ali Knocks Out Sonny Liston, 1965
A photographer captured this critical moment in one of Mohammad Ali’s fights. The referee had to hold young Ali back as he was ready for his opponent to rise again at any time, but Liston was defeated.
This would be one of many victories for the boxer who would go on to become one of the most famous athletes in sports history.
“I Have A Dream” 1963
In perhaps one of the most iconic photos in American history, Martin Luther King Jr. gives his famous “I Have A Dream” speech at the March on Washington in 1963.
The speech not only inspired listeners but became the nationwide cry for racial peace. Martin Luther King Jr. may have lost his life for his beliefs, but the words he spoke at this historical march never lost their power and are still recited today.
Coming To America, 1964
The boy band from across the pond that made waves in the world of music had finally landed in the U.S. This photo captured their first time in the U.S. after they landed at John F. Kennedy airport in 1964.
The Beatles were the number one band among the younger generation during the 60s, mixing genres and continuously breaking both sales and records. Though only two of the members remain alive today, fans will always remember them as “The Fab Four”.
Woodstock, 1969
One of the biggest highlights of the 60s was the Woodstock music festival. Woodstock may have gained a more lighthearted reputation in pop culture but two people actually died during the festival. Still, the mega-concert is considered a notable event in American history, with many performers like Joe Cocker and Creedence Clearwater Revival taking the stage.
The highlighted performer was Jimi Hendrix, who was paid $18,000 to perform at the event. Altogether, it is estimated that one million people attended Woodstock.
Alfred Hitchcock, The Master of Suspense, 1964
Before he was known to have grown too attached to actress Tippi Hedren, the legendary film director was snapped in this sort of behind the scenes style photo. Hitchcock’s films erupted during the 60s with now-classics like "The Birds," "The Man Who Knew Too Much," and "Vertigo," to name a few.
This photo was taken around the time of his latest film, Marnie, which starred Sean Connery and Tippi Hedren.
Twiggy: A Fashion Icon, 1967
Fashion changes rapidly over the decades and the 60s were no exception. The look of the “ideal woman” also changed from fuller figures like Marilyn Monroe to more svelte types like “the face of 1966” model, Twiggy.
Twiggy (real name, Leslie Hornby) was discovered at a hair salon and it was her hairdresser that gave her the name that represented her image to the modeling world.
Meet The Flintstones, 1960
The caveman cartoon, "The Flintstones," first aired in 1960 and pushed out 166 episodes from 1960 to 1966. The show was said to have been based on the sitcom "The Honeymooners" and was also one of the first shows that had a married couple sharing the same bed.
Even today, "The Flintstones" remains one of the most famous cartoons in pop culture.
Big Hair, Don’t Care 1966
One of the signature fashions of the 60s were the voluminous hairstyles. Big hair and hair spray to keep it in place all day were key elements for most women in the 60s.
And, while it’s common today to simply put your hair back in a ponytail for an athletic event or time spent at the gym, the women in this picture were dedicated to maintaining their updos, even while doing splits and getting ready for a gymnastic competition.
Meet The Supremes 1968
Singing ensembles like The Supremes were very popular in the 60s with their catchy lyrics, harmonized voices, and synchronized dance moves. The Supremes were among the most popular and were famous for hits like "Baby Love," "Stop! In the Name of Love," and "You Keep Me Hanging On."
The Supremes gained international notoriety, even meeting the Queen in 1968. The most successful of the group was Diana Ross who went on to have a successful solo career.
Surf Culture
Along with hippie culture in the 60s, came the surfer subculture. Popularized by films like "Gidget" and "Beach Party" and bands like The Beach Boys, surfer culture became about enjoying being young and carefree with friends by the water.
This of course further glamorized coastal living, specifically the West Coast.
Sundays Were For Family
During the 60s, Sundays were sacred and it was time to relax and enjoy time with your family. Many stores were closed on Sunday and people would set aside time to truly stop and enjoy life without its routine demands, even if it was just for one day.
Children were not as glued to the TV as they are today and would spend more time outside. And, with all of the busyness today, there are probably many families who would like to adopt the 60s tradition of a quiet, family day.
Records Were All the Rage
Aside from attending concerts, how did people listen to The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, and their other favorite performers? Records. Teens especially would spend time listening to their favorite bands and, with the advent of the stackable record player.
This allowed them to listen to the bands of the day without needing to change the records in between.
Jackie Kennedy, Style Icon
First Lady, Jackie Kennedy, became one of the biggest fashion icons of the 60s, and designers and stylists still gather inspiration from her today. Her style choices were feminine and classy and yet subtly playful.
But it was her graceful presence as the First Lady that cemented her as a timeless, style star. Today you can still find fashion brands that offer bright, whimsical prints, chunky sunglasses, and demure purses.
Johnny Cash Was Breakout Musician
Though he first came to public attention in the late 50s, Johnny Cash’s fame spread well into the 60s. His low, coarse voice and simple melodies gave listeners a unique sound that still stands out today.
Mixing the genres of Country, Folk, and a little bit of Rock and Roll, Cash was unafraid to make his own path in the world of music. And, despite his personal struggles, his courage to craft his own legacy is perhaps why his music is still so beloved today.
The RetroVision of the Future
Previous decades (and even centuries) have, at times, held interesting ideas of what the future will be like and the 60s also adopted these bold ideas. As the 60s generation looked with anticipation for traveling to outer space, the trend of “retro-futurism” began to take off.
Retrofuturism often displayed itself in art but could also be seen in TV shows and commercials of the day and even at places like Disneyland (seen in this photo). The most popular display of retro-futurism may have been the cartoon series, "The Jetsons."
The Space Landing, 1969
When astronauts did finally step foot on the moon in 1969 it was, without question, one of the most defining moments in human history. Neil Armstrong’s first words about his experience are unforgettable and still quoted today.
“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind”. Together with Buzz Aldrin, the two were officially the first humans to take their first steps on the moon.
Batman, 1966
The first Batman TV series starring Adam West really took off in the 60s and aired in 1966. In comparison to the grittier Batman films that have been released in recent years, this one differed.
The original Batman may be seen as corny with its sound effect animated graphics, but it was the first successful TV adaptation of the comic book.
Flying in Luxury
Considering the lack of legroom on most economy flights today, flying Pan-Am in the 60s was a luxurious experience. The cabins were much more spaced out and had generous legroom and seats.
However, there were other risks back then (even involving flight safety) that will still make today’s cramped flights much more attractive.
The Era of Brigitte Bardot
Among all of the notable starlets of the 60s, Bridget Bardot was certainly one of the top icons of the day. Bardot was born in France, giving her that exotic “it” factor that movie studios were looking for.
She was known for films like "The Night Heaven Fell," "Love Is My Profession" and "Contempt." She was often cast as the love interest in her movies but still managed to appear in a few different film genres.
I Dream Of Jeanie
Along with highly-rated TV shows like "Gilligan’s Island," "The Dick Van Dyke Show," "Star Trek" and "Bonanza," was the comedy, "I Dream of Jeanie." The whimsical plot centered around a woman (who happens to be a 2,000-year-old genie) and her astronaut husband trying to adjust to normal, suburban life.
Actress Barbara Eden’s outfit was a bit controversial for the day but it nonetheless became a beloved show for the time.
The Banana Bike
The banana bike was one of the coveted toys in the 60s. It was also known as the Wheelie bike and Spyder bike and featured oversized handlebars that vaguely resembled motorcycle handlebars.
Perhaps it was their understated “cool” factor that made them so popular but it was also a great way to encourage kids to get out of the house, get some fresh air and spend time with their friends.
DIY Fallout Shelters
With growing anxieties about nuclear warfare during the Cold War, the 60s public became focused on their safety. Anxiety became so great that the media even encouraged the public to build their own fallout shelters at home.
The basement was the most obvious place to create the shelter and they were planned to be not simply shelters, but a place where a family could live comfortably for an extended time. Thankfully, they never needed to be used for nuclear warfare and typically became extra storage spaces or even storm shelters.
Adoring Liza Minnelli
Actress and singer Liza Minelli married Australian singer Peter Allen in 1967. Apart from being Judy Garland’s daughter, Liza rose to fame in her own right through her roles in “Cabaret” and “The Sterile Cuckoo.” She met Allen while performing together at a New York nightclub, and they fell madly in love, tieing the knot at an intimate ceremony in New York City.
Liza, to this day, is a 1960s symbol and not only because of the movies and musicals she took part in but because those days were not only glam and glory. They carried sad and gloomy stories of substance use, broken homes, and making very bad decisions in life.
Elvis The Judoca
"The King" loved rock and roll so much that when we think of this music genre, his name never fails to pop up. He is an icon of the 1960s, he was a fashion leader and music creator and practically ruled the day. Besides spending all that time on stage, Elvis loved to kick it up in his dōjō practicing Karate.
He even earned a Black Belt in the 60s thanks to his master, Hank Slemansky. The King had two sides to him, the soft and romantic side of music-making and the tough side where he’d spend days in the dōjō. This side of the King just proves that behind every monarch lies a commoner, and Elvis, too, had ways not everyone knew about.
Nancy Kwan Opened the Door for Other Women
The World of Suzie Wong was a 60s drama movie where Nancy Kwan paved the way for Chinese-American movies. In a time where Asian-American movies weren't so popular, her role was a pivotal and crucial one. Since then, Asian women have become great stars and leading the industry not only in their homelands.
It was thanks to her that other Asian women saw Hollywood as a chance for a career, and Kwan was the one to open the door for others. During the Flower Power days, boundaries were broken, and this that were considered Tabo suddenly became legit, and so did the appearance of Asian women o the screen.
Sir Michael Caine Breaking Classes
Apparently, Sir Michael Caine is showing off his fists in this old photo taken in 1969. With a colorful career spanning 70 years and counting, it is just right that he is regarded as a British film icon. Famous for his cockney accent, Caine appeared in various films with stellar performances as Ebenezer Scrooge in "The Muppet Christmas Carol" and as Alfred Pennyworth in "The Dark Knight Trilogy."
Sir Michael Caine was introduced into an era of cultural upheaval, a decade when so many great British artists were born and days when class barriers were broken. These were days of opportunity, and Cain took each one that came his way.
Bowie of the 1960s
David Robert Jones, better known as David Bowie, is photographed here modeling the designs of John Stephen with Jan De Souza. The shot was taken by photographer Fiona Adams for a British Pop music magazine back in 1965. Bowie was considered one of the most influential artists of the 20th century for his eccentric stage presence and unique music.
Although Bowie rose to global fame and seriously engraved his mark during the 1970s, the Flower Power days are when he discovered himself and took advantage of the changes the world was going through, contributing such an impressive and influential music portfolio.
Riding the 1960s
The Flower Power days were not all about colors, music, boundaries, and flares. They were also about riding bikes and daring. Before all the amateur pranksters began filming their stunts for TV, Evel Knievel was the ultimate daredevil. Pictured here, Evel Knievel tried to jump over the fountains at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. This was outrageous at the time and never done before.
The jump was around 141 feet, and unfortunately, Knievel didn’t make it. Knievel crashed and wound up in a coma for 28 days. But what resulted from his failed stunt and ensuing coma was more fame, and Knievel became more popular than ever.
Legendary Guitar
This image says a lot about the late Jimi Hendrix, and it says a lot about the 1960 days too. It’s powerful because it was taken before his untimely demise at the age of 27 in 1970. We all know that he was an extremely talented guitarist and influenced many people during his reign. He left a legend that will never be forgotten.
He sang and performed his own music, which makes him one of the greatest in music history. In fact, he was even inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his contributions to music during his career.
Northern Lights
Pictured in the below photo is head-turning Swedish actress Maud Solveig Christina Adams. Best known for her portrayal of not one but two Bond girls in the iconic James Bond films—the first being “The Man with the Golden Gun” (1974), the second being the “eponymous” character in “Octopussy” (1983).
Adams was truly recognized as the ultimate face of international beauty and fame. Looking back on her appearances as minor characters in the Bond films over 30 years ago, Adams still reflects back on roles like that of the infamous seductress, Octopussy. She was a big name in the glorious 1960 and brought a fresh and different flavor to the screen.
Still, kicking yourself for missing the greatest concert in history? Or were you simply not born in time? Don't worry! While the real thing is hard to substitute, we've gathered countless more candid and powerful images from that iconic summer day.
With kids from all over the country camping out and jamming it up to the likes of Jimmi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and even Ravi Shankar, these pictures will take you back into a time of free love, hippie chic, and revolutionary rock and roll. Here are more Woodstock photos that will make you wish you were there.
The Aftermath
Two festival-goers rest between sets while reading a newspaper. With few places to catch a good rest, many Woodstock attendees had to make do with what they had, which was often just a blanket under the stars.
After the festival, many felt as if they were but fragments of their former selves; with such an eye-opening and remarkable experience, many left with a newfound sense of self.
Far-reaching Impact
Still, the festival represented a moment in which a generation of young people attained a critical mass for three days in a rural New York field. As such, it had a far-reaching impact and could be interpreted to pose a threat to society.
By focusing on negative, threatening images, such as the widespread use of illegal substances and deteriorating public safety, media coverage tended to reinforce the establishment's social order. While also declared disturbing questions about Woodstock attendees' mindset and marginalize the young generation's political standing.
Influential Musical Performances
Many of the festival's acts were forced to perform during the rain that troubled the proceedings. Here we see Ravi Shankar as he played the sitar during his performance on a Friday night.
Ravi was an Indian musician, composer, and founder of the National Orchestra of India; he was also influential in spurring Western appreciation of Indian music.
Regretful Bands
A handful of prominent bands spurned invitations to perform at Woodstock. The Byrds were invited but declined to play. Said bassist John York, "By that time we had no idea what it was going to be. We were tired of the festival scene... So all of us said, 'No, we want a rest' and missed the best festival of all."
The Doors also declined an invitation to perform at Woodstock, supposing it would be a "second class repeat of Monterey Pop Festival." Guitarist Robby Krieger said it was one of his biggest regrets as a musician.
Rainy Festival
All the downpour of rain threatened the festival and delayed several performances while drenching the grounds and the attendees. Here, we see pictured men soaked while having fun in the mud.
The ground on which two or three hundred thousand kids were sitting was begging to be turned back into the mud, and it got its wish, and it couldn't have mattered less to anyone.
Defining its Own Culture
Woodstock proved to be a milestone in coverage of the music scene and the broader media investigation of social and economic issues that affect younger citizens. After the Woodstock weekend, rock music and other matters concerning the American experience were no longer oddities.
In the aftermath of the festival, it was clear that the future had arrived when hundreds of thousands of people were part of a place that defined its own culture for three days.
Coming Together
As hundreds of thousands of people from all walks of life invaded a rural resort area that was unprepared to accommodate them all. Here we see young people eating outside the food tent at Woodstock.
Somehow, by nature of old-fashioned kindness and caring, people came together, in harmony and with good intentions, and all of them learned from the experience.
Woodstock's Message
From makeshift shelters to food stalls, festival attendees got creative in the absence of adequate facilities. The attendees endured the discomforts to relish in a lifestyle that was an expression of their independence.
While newspapers across the US continued to focus on the concert-as-disaster-area, network television news programs were quick to pick up on Woodstock's message.
Coming of Age
Attendees even climbed-up the sound tower to see the stage. The festival's overall panorama wove together elements drawn from their experiences and the artistry of the performances.
An article featured in The Rolling Stone magazine also explored the cultural implications of Woodstock on a personal level, it discussed how Woodstock represented a coming of age of personal freedom.
A New Nation
Despite the rain and the traffic jams, the mud and hunger and thirst, and beyond the confusion, a new nation had emerged into glare provided by the moving photos we see.
At the festival, thousands were able to do things that would ordinarily be considered rebellious regarding whatever current sociological theory one might want to embrace. Swimming, canoeing, or running around scantily-clad, believe it or not, stay up all night.
Bringing Yoga to the West
As one of the great Yoga masters to bring the classical Yoga tradition to the West in the 1960s, Sri Swami Satchidananda taught Yoga postures and meditation.
He also introduced students to a vegetarian diet and a more compassionate lifestyle; these concepts influenced a generation and spawned a growing Yoga culture.
Impromptu Shelters
Many were carrying sleeping bags and tents, canned food and guitars, dressed in beads, leather, bandanas, and long gowns, the young people spoke of sleeping out under the stars and possible riots.
Impromptu shelters as we see here were common; as this man unwinds in the grass hut he built for the weekend.
Media Coverage
A group of journalists worked amid the chaos of the Woodstock Music & Art Fair. However, initial coverage of the Woodstock event portrayed it as a disaster. However, a young generation of journalists saw the event differently.
As they returned to their newsrooms across America, the reporters and editors struggled to characterize the era-changing events that had occurred over the weekend.
The Era of Woodstock
Likewise, Woodstock's photos that circulated painted a picture to those on the outside of what it felt like to be there and at this festival that was quickly becoming symbolic of the 'Woodstock generation.'
To an entire generation, Woodstock comprised the central tenets of the 1960s cultural revolution. Fifty years afterward, the legend of "3 Days of Peace & Music" lives on.
The Impact Thereafter
Thanks to all the coverage in the media, Woodstock had an impact far beyond its actual borders. Following Woodstock, an eponymous documentary film, the year was released to critical acclaim and distribution across the United States.
It really felt like it was a time for social and cultural change, mainly due to population demographics. According to the US Census Bureau, 36% of the US population was under 18 in 1960. A youth movement was underway.
Woodstock
Despite the logistical nightmares and unexpected crowds, Woodstock went off relatively hitch-free. There were barely any reported crimes, and surprisingly not nearly as many fatalities as most skeptics were expecting.
The counterculture mantra of love and peace won out with an audience that almost reached half a million and it brought people together from all over the country.
Traffic Jams
On August 13, two days before the festival's start, there were already traffic jams caused by the exodus of people making their way to the festival grounds in an attempt to get there early and grab a spot before it gets too crowded.
Woodstock's organizers had prepared for a crowd of 150,000, but by the second day of the festival, somewhere between 400,000 to 500,000 had already descended upon Max Yasgur's dairy farm.
Waiting For the Bus
Like all music festivals, Woodstock showcased the younger generation wearing the new styles — from bell bottoms, crop tops to knit dresses. Here we see a group as they wait for a bus to take them to the festival grounds.
Fashions of the era represented youth, from the colorful outfits that reflected vibrant optimism and expressed a romantic yearning for an equal society.
Another View
Here we have another view of just how big and expansive the crowd was at the opening ceremony. Swami Satchidananda first came to America in 1966; Yoga was mostly unknown here.
Health food stores only contained bottles of vitamin supplements and photos of bodybuilders. When people heard of the word yogi, they thought of a popular cartoon. All this changed when Swami Satchidananda arrived, and since his appearance at Woodstock, his ideas and teachings slowly seeped throughout America.
A Spiritual Opening Ceremony
The photo below shows the Indian religious teacher, Satchidananda Saraswati, conducting the opening ceremony at the festival. In a way to set the tone of this momentous event, he was also instrumental in bringing Eastern philosophies to the West.
It was a beautiful way to open such a special event, and Saraswati inspired the hundred thousand-plus crowd to chant in unison and be captivated by his words.
Joni Mitchell and The Rolling Stones Didn’t Attend, but Santana Did
Santana was one of the many legendary performers that attended Woodstock. However, there were many other famous musicians that the organizers tried to get to perform, but they opted out. For example, Joni Mitchell, who was a hippie movement icon of the time, was convinced by her manager not to attend because she was scheduled to perform on a TV show shortly after.
Funny enough, also attending the TV show were Stephen Stills and the late David Crosby, of Crosby, Stills and Nash, who did perform at Woodstock. And for those of you asking on what she based her iconic “Woodstock” song on, it was about her boyfriend’s experiences at the festival. The Rolling Stones were another huge band that didn’t make it to Woodstock. Mick Jagger was filming a movie at the time, and Keith Richards and his wife had just had a baby.
Performers Had to Be Flown In Because They Couldn’t Get Past Traffic
The festival’s first scheduled performer was the band, Sweetwater, but they were stuck in traffic and didn’t make it on time. In order to get things going, Richie Havens started playing, and he played for hours. At one point, after running out of his own songs, he started to play Beatles covers and even made up a song that later became known as a sort of Woodstock anthem, called “Freedom”.
The festival organizers had to fly in performers on a helicopter in order to finally give Havens a break!
Bob Dylan Did Not Perform at the Festival
Not many know that the original idea was to build a recording studio in Woodstock, New York. A group of people invested in the project, which was getting famous for its artistic projects and brilliant musicians, such as Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, and more.
As it turned out, the investors had a change of heart and decided to have a massive concert instead. They chose the name Woodstock because of its connection to Bob Dylan. Ironically enough, he didn’t even perform at the festival. Apparently, one of his kids got very sick at the last moment and he couldn’t attend.
A Girl and Her Pet Monkey
This is an amazing photo of a girl posing next to her pet monkey. Since Woodstock was all about peace and love and respect for all living things, it’s not surprising some people came with their animals.
Many people brought their dogs to the festival, but this girl went a step further and decided to bring her pet monkey with her.
The Hippies Left a Mess Behind
You would expect that a festival that’s all about peace and love and nature would attract people that cared for the environment. But this wasn’t the case with Woodstock, in fact, by looking at the photo below, we can get a clear picture of how people left the place. The land and the entire town of Bethel was left in such a mess, that even after the land owner, Yasgur, was approached the following year about another festival, he immediately refused. The townspeople even came up with a law forbidding another festival to take place.
Woodstock’s 25th anniversary, in 1994, took place about 10 miles from Bethel, in a town in New York called Saugerties. More than 550,000 people attended. Again, a much higher number than the organizers expected. Five years later, another Woodstock was held in Rome, New York, and there were a number of reports of violence, sexual assaults, and fires.
Most People Missed Hendrix’s “Star-Spangled Banner”
This photo, showing two men in a van painted with the American flag, depicts how, even though hippies were against the “system” and certainly the government, they still loved their country and were very patriotic. And one of the festival’s most patriotic moments was when Jimi Hendrix played his magnificent version of the U.S. anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner”.
Since Hendrix was one of the main performances of the festival, he was scheduled to play last, but after changes in programming, Hendrix’s set was postponed an entire day. By that time, most of the people had left, so only a few heard Hendrix’s legendary performance.
People Could Buy a Blue Jean for $5 and a Stand Was Set on Fire
Hippie mentality didn’t keep people from doing business at the festival. People sold everything from food, clothing, and a variety of items. The couple in this photo sold jeans, tops, hats, shirts, and more for just $5.
Food was also sold for nearly nothing, until at one point, one food stand ran out of burgers and raised the price of each hamburger from 25 cents to $1. People got angry at what they considered a “capitalist” move that wasn’t keeping with the tone of the festival. Chaos ensued and people finally set the stand on fire.
Woodstock Was an Anti-War Festival That Received Help From the Military
Woodstock happened at a time when the U.S. got involved in the Vietnam War, and, not surprisingly, since Woodstock was all about music and peace, its attendees were strongly against the war. The photo below shows a man driving a Mustang covered with anti-war messages, like “war is not healthy”.
The ironic thing was that, if it wouldn’t have been for the U.S. army, people would have had a very hard time at the festival. It was the army that airlifted medical supplies, food and artists, to keep the festival going. The festival organizers said to the attendees, "They are with us man, they are not against us. Forty-five doctors or more are here without pay because they dig what this is into."
Martin Scorsese Edited an Oscar-Winning Documentary About the Festival
Artie Kornfeld, the festival organizer and mastermind behind Woodstock, thought it would be a good idea to film the festival and do a documentary on the whole event. Kornfeld had made an agreement with Warner Bros Studios to come and film the whole festival. At the time, Martin Scorsese had just graduated from NYU film school and he was recruited as one of the editors for the film.
Over the course of three days, they shot 120 miles of footage, which Scorsese and a team of others managed to cut down into a three-hour film. The documentary won an Academy Award and made huge profits, of which Scorsese and the team of filmmakers didn’t see barely any of.
A Stage and a Crowd That Could Be Watched from Every Angle
One of the most amazing things about musicians is that they get to connect with thousands of people through their music. They get to get on a stage and look at a crowd of thousands of faces staring back at them. At Woodstock, performers weren’t only greeted with this incredible feeling, but they looked back at a unique crowd of people covered in mud, dancing, playing music, running around; they basically got to play for a human wonderland.
The Incredible String Band, a folk quartet from Scotland, said, "It was incredibly high and three out of the four of us had vertigo. Little flimsy dresses on the girls, acoustic guitars out of tune, the drums damp from the tent, it was like playing off the Forth Bridge to this sea of people cooking beans in the mud." They said their performance at Woodstock was something they would never forget.
3 Deaths and Not Enough Bathrooms
Considering the number of people that attended the festival (more than 500,000), it’s surprising there were only three fatal accidents at Woodstock. Two people overdosed, and one, only 17 years old, died after a tractor ran over him while he was sleeping in a sleeping bag.
Another big issue was the shortage of toilets. Since no one expected such a huge turnout, festival staff only set up 600 toilets, and it wasn’t nearly enough. Basically, there was one toilet for every 650 people.
Rain, Traffic, and Electrocution Weren’t An Issue For Artist or Attendees
Performers and people at Woodstock felt they were part of something so unique that it was going to take a lot to ruin the experience. Intense rain, heavy traffic or even the risk of electrocution didn’t scare these people. In fact, The Grateful Dead, a band from California, played on stage during heavy rain and flooding, standing in water up to their ankles. Considering they were surrounded by amplifiers, instruments, microphones, and things that required a big amount of electricity, this was extremely dangerous.
The band even said they felt electricity shocks when they touched their guitars and held the mics. But, they did it anyway, along with many other bands, including Alvin Lee (from Ten Years After), who said, “Oh come on. If I get electrocuted at Woodstock, we’ll sell a lot of records.”
There Were Many Children at the Festival, But Probably No Babies Were Born There
It is said that four babies were born at the festival, but it remains unclear. One singer said on stage, “Some cat’s old lady just had a baby, a kid destined to be far out!”. Also, a medic later reported that a mother-to-be was flown to a hospital and another had her baby in the car, stuck in traffic!
Eliot Tiber, who appears in Taking Woodstock, said a woman had a baby at his family’s hotel next to the festival.
A Very Unique Festival Program
One of the special things about Woodstock was that, since it was the first festival of its kind, it was not dominated by merchandise. Unlike today, where merchandise is a huge part of the event; everywhere there are shirts and souvenirs.
Woodstock only had its original programs which, together with the staff’s t-shirts and jackets with the Woodstock logo, are now worth thousands of dollars, since they’re the only remaining souvenirs.
Even Tractors Served as Resting Spots
At Woodstock, any place was fair game when it came to resting.
There were so many people everywhere and so much going on all the time, that finding a resting place was imperative. And that could be anything, even the farm tractors!
People Played with Suspended Gongs at the “Free Stage”
The Free stage we mentioned earlier wasn’t only for jamming and mic performances, it was a free, open space where people could go and do all sorts of activities, like a Hippie Disneyland of sorts, complete with drugs, massages, free hugs, and all sorts of instruments laying around. In the photo below, you can see people playing with some hanging gongs near the Free Stage.
Of course, what was Disneyland for some, was hell for others. Famous Indian sitar player, Ravi Shankar, attended the festival, and recalled it as something “terrifying”. Shankar said he didn’t have a good time, and the crowds of thousands of mud-covered people reminded him of water buffaloes in India, instead of free spirits listening to transcendent music.
Festival-Goers Hugging at 'The Greatest Peaceful Event'
Bethel became the third-largest city in the state of New York for one weekend, after an approximate 500,000 people where at the farm at one time. Of course, no one involved with the Woodstock festival ever expected such a high amount of people to attend, and as a result, there were food and water shortages, among many other issues. In fact, the situation came to such a point that the NY governor at the time, Nelson Rockefeller, officially declared it a disaster area.
Despite there being more than 5,000 medical emergencies at the festival, people still took care of each other and tried to help in any way possible. Even if it was through support and affection, like these three people hugging so happily.
“The Free Stage”
There was a school bus used by the Hog Farmers near the “Free Stage”, which was basically a space where artists and attendees would jam and perform open mic numbers. In the photo above, some men are hanging out near the school bus. When the weather started to change and a storm began, a huge crowd starting chanting in unison, “No rain, no rain, no rain”.
After just three hours, five inches of rain had fallen and turned everything into a swamp. Joan Baez even started singing “We Shall Overcome”!
An Obstacle Course
Woodstock became free for many reasons. For one, they did not realize it was going to be such a huge event, and it was literally impossible for them to control the crowds. Also, they did not have much security. People came in through fences and climbed all over equipment and other things around the farm.
Surprisingly, with such a huge event, there was no violence. Unfortunately, however, two deaths were reported. It was reported that someone died from a drug overdose. Another death was a freak accident where the person was accidentally hit by a tractor. While both of those instances are extremely sad, it is amazing that there were only two reports out of over 400,000 people.
Dancing in the Rain
The people in attendance at Woodstock did not let rain or mud, or any of the other severe weather conditions ruin their time. It does not matter that the festival was lacking basic luxuries. People literally let their hair down, rolled up their sleeves and danced in the rain.
The people captured in this epic photograph seemed so happy. They weren’t going to let a little bit of rain ruin their time. A few of them are even wearing plastic ponchos, which means they were prepared for the rain! The poncho's may not have been in Woodstock fashion, but they sure were functional when the downpour started.
Crowd-Surfing
This amazing action shot shows just how fun Woodstock really was. There were tons of crazy happenings going on all over Woodstock. This is just one of them. Crowd surfing happened the entire time.
People loved to get thrown and surf the crowds, all in hopes of getting a little bit closer to the stage for a better look at their favorite musician.
A Different Perspective
Okay, this photograph is truly incredible. This guy is definitely making a statement reading his book while up in the sky. It is unclear what he is doing up there. Maybe it is his way of getting on someone's shoulders to get a better view... And it looks like he would have the best view in the house from up there.
Hopefully, he did not fall from his perch and hurt himself. Hopefully, he got some reading done while waiting for the bands to play, and hopefully, he got a great view of it all. Either way, we are sure he had a memorable time at the festival.
A Weekend to Remember
Aside from the 32 incredible performances happening at Woodstock, there was also a ton of time to just relax and hang out with your friends around the farm.
This photograph is a great example of that. Dozens of people seem to be completely content sitting in the forest. They are enjoying the Great Outdoors and enjoying the company of others. The clothing hanging in the trees is amazing to see in this photo. Maybe they were drying them from the rain, or maybe they were making makeshift tents to sleep in. Nobody seems to mind the fact that they are wet and covered in mud, they are just having a good time.
In the Zone
You would think that most people would attend a music festival to hear and enjoy the music. But that was not always the case. It seems a lot of people came to Woodstock to simply be around other people and play their own instruments. By doing so, they were able to entertain the other concert-goers between sets.
Photographed here is a hippie, complete with long hair and a beard. He got himself on a top platform, the perfect place to play his guitar between sets. He seems completely content being in his own world, playing his own music, while waiting for the entertainment to begin.
Peaceful Protest
The Woodstock festival lasted three days, and during that time, the audience of half a million people truly promoted the concepts of peace and love. There was not a single incidence of violence during the entirety of the festival. Well, there was one incident, but it came from a band member, not from the peaceful audience. It occurred on-stage, as Abbie Hoffman tried to jump onto the stage during a break in The Who’s set. Hoffman took the mic and began a semi-coherent rant about freeing John Sinclair from jail, when Pete Townshend turned, yelled at Hoffman to get off “my stage,” and hit him on the head with his guitar. Hoffman hobbled off the stage, and the angry members of The Who finished their set.
The photographed guy here is a peaceful animal lover. No one seemed bothered by him, or his sign or message.
Peace & Love
At such a huge event, one can only imagine how hard it was to see the bands perform. Either you were too far back, or not tall enough to see over the people in front of you. This photo captures the feeling to a t!
The woman pictured seemed to make her way up onto someone’s shoulders to get a better look! She is really feeling the music and holding up peace signs, which was the symbol of Woodstock. This photo is quintessential Woodstock. You can see by her face how much she is enjoying the music, and you can almost feel the joy she is exuding.
Free Festival
Woodstock ventures, who organized the festival, sold nearly 100,000 tickets prior to the first day of the festival. Almost half a million people attended Woodstock, so you do the math. Over 300,000 people decided to come to Woodstock, even though they did not have a ticket for the monumental event.
Nobody knew it was going to be such a huge deal, and the organizers were definitely not ready for such a huge turn out. People started getting to the festival two days before it even started. There were so many people that it was absolutely impossible to control the situation, and that is when Woodstock became free!
Deserted Dreamers
Nobody expected that almost half a million people would attend Woodstock. The traffic getting in and out of the festival was absolutely brutal. People were stuck in traffic and could not get in to see the bands perform, so they decided to get out of the car and find other ways to get there. Some people decided to hitchhike or walk. People would do whatever it took to get to the festival, and nothing could stop them.
This picture speaks volumes. It seems like the couple here got stuck in the traffic jam. The guy in the photo is playing the guitar, for the girl who seems to be extremely upset and definitely not impressed.
Some Morning Yoga
Sri Swami Satchidananda led a yoga class every morning. It looks like he had no problem drawing a crowd to join him in the spiritual workout. They used this time to connect and relax while there were no musical performances.
We love the variety of yoga poses that the group is doing. It is showing that they are practicing together, yet still doing their own flow. Everyone seems to be having a great time together. Yoga is really a practice of peace and love, and that is exactly what the people at Woodstock wanted to promote, so it is no surprise that it was practiced all over the fields.
Couple Goals
How could you not smile during a time like Woodstock? This happy couple must have been so excited for what was to come. Maybe they were most excited for Janis Joplin or Jimi Hendrix- or one of the other 30 musicians scheduled to perform. They exude beauty, and are icons of bohemian fashion.
The lady pictured is perfectly dressed in Woodstock fashion. Wearing a peasant blouse was very common among the concertgoers, and hers is perfect in those colorful stripes. Her partner, while not wearing a shirt, decided to accessorize with various necklaces. This was also a very common look around the festival.
The Faces Behind the Magic
Woodstock took place in New York State. However it was not actually in the town of Woodstock. It was held in a town called Bethel. The reason why it was called Woodstock was not because of the location, but because the people who financed the festival were from a company by the name of Woodstock ventures.
The place where the festival actually took place was a dairy farm owned by Max Yasgur. He was a farmer who graciously allowed Woodstock Ventures to put on the festival on his land. Sadly, he got a lot of push-back from the community about his graciousness. People in his neighborhood went as far as to sue him. He died in 1973, shortly after Woodstock.
A Celestial Sound
The kickoff to the Woodstock Festival was just as amazing as the festival itself. First, Richie Havens performed. This was then followed by an incredible speech by Sri Swami Satchidananda. He shared an uplifting and inspiring message with the group. .
“My Beloved Brothers and Sisters, we can just feel the vibes. Music is a celestial sound, and it is the sound that controls the whole universe, not atomic vibrations. Sound energy, sound power, is much, much greater than any other power in this world. And, one thing I would very much wish you all to remember is that with sound, we can make—and at the same time, break.”
One Big, Happy Family
Everyone was family at Woodstock. It was not unusual to see groups of people sitting together in the fields enjoying the music. It did not matter if these people knew each other or came together, they were all family. Adults and children were all welcome.
There were not many publications allowed in the festival to document the event. Rolling Stone magazine was given full access throughout the festival, and they were one of the only people to get that clearance. This photograph was taken by Baron Wolman, who was a photographer at Rolling Stone. Since it was such a popular magazine, it was easy for him to get snaps like this, as people were eager to be photographed by the magazine.
Picture Perfect
Despite all of the incredible performances happening at Woodstock, photographers were also able to photograph many special moments between people in the audience.
This couple is fashion at its finest. The guy pictured is showing a minimal take to Woodstock fashion, wearing only denim cut-offs. He has styled his hair into an Afro, which was extremely common around the festival. The woman pictured has her icy blonde hair parted right in the middle and styled with a slight wave, which is likely from all of the rain they experienced. Her dress is long and flowy, in perfect Bohemian fashion. The fringe detail on the bottom is a lovely touch.
Psychedelic Vans
The number of people, along with the extreme heat and rain, made the conditions unfavorable for the festival goers. Beating the heat and sleeping outside on top of their vans seemed like the best option for these Woodstock attendees.
This photograph documents an incredible moment in Woodstock history. People literally had to camp out on top of and inside of their vehicles. They never anticipated the amount of people that actually attended. . Traffic was literally at a standstill, there was a point where you could not get in or out of the festival. Additionally, the crowds made the 3-day festival drag on to last for 4 days.
Fashion Forward
While people may have taken the time to seek out the details of their outfits, such as the layered beaded necklaces and the leather accessories or excessive jewelry, they really didn't seem to pay much attention to their hair. The girls tended to keep their hair straight and long, and some even had bangs, but that was the extent of it. You could see burly beards or afros among the men.
Embroidered blouses and layered necklaces, ready to be paired with low-slung bell-bottoms, made this girl the perfect subject for a snap. It looks like she spent a lot of time perfectly curating her accessories for her Woodstock Style.
Rocking the Daisies
Hippies, often called flower children, used colorful, vibrant clothing, covered with flowers; they wore flowers in their hair and passed them around to the public. They used flowers as symbols of peace, love, unity, and happiness, and this is how they got to be known as flower children. They really were all about spreading peace and joy.
The couple photographed here is radiating peace and happiness. There has been nothing else like Woodstock and there never will be again. This is a feeling that cannot be recreated. Many other bands were invited to Woodstock and couldn't make it. Unfortunately, they will forever regret turning down this opportunity. Of course, they did not know how big it was going to be. No one did.
One Love
Whenever you have a large group of people in one place, you have to worry about the potential of violence, and of course the people in charge of Woodstock had valid concerns. Thankfully though, this was not the case with Woodstock. The only things that people preached over the span of three days were peace, love, freedom, happiness and unity.
This photograph really encapsulates the essence of Woodstock. You can see everyone with their hands in the air listening to music together, happy and smiling. It really is as if nothing else matters. They do not seem to have a care in the world, and they are all united as one.
A Muddy Business
In the span of three days, Woodstock saw so much variation in the weather. It went from hot, muggy and humid to severe rain, flooding and mud. It was good that they got some rain, unfortunately, it was bad for the musicians and caused some technical problems. But of course that did not stop the 32 musicians from performing.
As you can see in this capture, people did not seem to mind all of the problems that came with the severe weather. The people in this photo had to dry out all of their rain soaked belongings. Pretty sure they were not going to get any sleep anyway.
Hail the Almighty Rain Makers!
Woodstock took place in the hottest month of summer, and because of the crowded conditions and the far higher turnout than was expected, water was hard to come by. People were beginning to worry about the lack of water, and they decided they had to take matters into their own hands.
Pictured here, we have a group of friends doing what looks like a rain dance. Lucky for them, their offering for rain worked. It began to pour and Woodstock turned into a complete wet mess, with mud and water everywhere. I guess it is true what they say, be careful what you wish for. The muddy conditions made it really hard for people to enjoy the rest of the festival.
The Queen of Boho
The people who attended Woodstock loved to experiment with wild and crazy outfits and accessories. The girl pictured here is covered in accessories. She is showing us true bohemian fashion. The addition of flowers in her hair and other jewelry really took this look to the next level.
These flower children weren't trying to make a fashion statement, and yet their aesthetic went on to influence generations of festival-attending youths to come.
Taking Notes
Legendary rocker Tim Hardin performed on day one of Woodstock. He played a couple of songs with his band, but then performed one song solo. He ditched the band to sing a solo rendition of “If I Were a Carpenter.” Even though this performance was iconic, he was only paid $2,000. He did not make as much as other musicians at Woodstock.
This photograph is incredible. The photographer caught him in a candid moment off stage. We have got to wonder what hit was being written right here! If only the photographer had captured the lyrics he was writing down at the time.
When Life Gives You Instruments, Make Music!
Woodstock spanned over the course of three days. There were 32 performers. Over the course of the three days, of course there were a few breaks between performances. While one performer broke down their set and another one would put up theirs, people in the audience decided to make music of their own. They did not want the music to end.
In this photo, we see a couple of people putting on their own little musical show. Everyone is dancing to the beat these people are playing. There is a guy playing the drums and a woman playing her flute. They must have known that there were going to be breaks, and so they brought instruments of their own. Look at the drummer's eyes, you can almost feel his passion.
Follow the Groovy Brick Road
No matter what path you chose at Woodstock, you were surely in for a memorable time and a crazy adventure. These signs are so awesome. We love how they are stuck on the trees. How cool would it be to have a copy of these signs hanging up around our houses? I bet people who attended Woodstock would love to have bought something like this as a souvenir.
if you took the path titled groovy way, you would probably find all of the iconic hippie fashion, such as flared jeans and Afro hairstyles. These styles were not just seen in passing at Woodstock, they were also staples in the 70s and disco fashion. If you took the path titled gentle, you would be in good company, hanging with souls who were a little more spiritual. You would probably be practicing yoga and wearing Bohemian dresses.
Tie-Dye for the Win!
Janis Joplin introduced the tie-dye craze that came to characterize a decade. She, Joe Cocker, and John Sebastian, an interesting character who tie-dyed his underwear, played at Woodstock covered in garments full of colorful swirls.
Everyone attending Woodstock would agree that tie-dye was all the rage. There were vendors all over the farm selling tie-dye clothing and memorabilia to the concert goers. Thankfully, if you did not own anything from this fashion trend, you could certainly get it while you were at the festival and fit right in! This trend did not end at Woodstock. It lasted for years to come.
Flower Child
Woodstock was a place where everyone was welcome and accepted. It did not matter what gender you were, what race you were, or even your age. This photograph encapsulates that message. We do not know how old the girl in this photograph is , but she is definitely one of the younger attendees. You can tell from the photo just how fun it was for everyone who was able to attend. The memories that she created at such a young age at this Festival will stick with her forever.
It may come as a complete surprise to you, but there were also a handful of births that happened during Woodstock. There are two records of children being born during the festival. In one instance, the child was born at a nearby hospital, after the mother went into labor at the festival. She had to be moved to the hospital by helicopter, and the child was born when she got there. Another child was born in a car, while they were stuck in traffic on their way to Woodstock.
The Who’s Who
People all over knew about Woodstock. There was a huge hype surrounding it before it even happened. So it is no surprise that celebrities were among the crowd attending Woodstock. They wanted to be a part of the action just as much as everyone else. One celebrity in particular, a German model named Veruschka von Lehndorff, is pictured here enjoying the festival.
Von Lehndorff was a popular model and actress around this time period. Originally from Russia, she studied art in Hamburg and was later discovered in Florence, by a photographer named Ugo Mulas, at a very young age. This was the first step towards her rise to international fame, after becoming a full-time model. Some years later, she met Eileen Ford, head of the famous Ford Modeling Agency, in Paris.
Hanging with The Pearl
Nobody really knew how big Woodstock was going to be. Not even Janis Joplin a.k.a. the pearl. She found out about the festival just a couple of days prior. Thankfully, she did not have another commitment, and her and her band said yes to the performance. When she told her band they had a gig, she did not make it a big deal because she did not know how big of a deal it really was. It was not until they arrived and saw the number of people in the crowd that they realized what a big thing this was.
Janis Joplin was among the performers who performed on day two of Woodstock. She was also one of the biggest stars to perform. Despite her star status, Janis and her band did not leave after their iconic performance. They stayed at the festival until the end, to experience it all.
Sway Your Hair Like You Don’t Care
Woodstock was not advertised as a music festival per se. It was said it was marketed as a weekend in the country, which makes sense since it was on a farm. It was a span of days filled with 32 hit musicians performing. Non-Stop partying, arts and crafts, peace and love, and 60's fashion. There had never been anything like it.
In this photo, a girl with the iconic hippie hair of that time period, is partying and dancing to the music. Everyone who attended Woodstock was convinced that music was the way to bring peace and love to the world. Luckily for us, we get to experience the magic thanks to the photographers at the festival who captured every moment.
Wrapped Up in Love
1969 was a difficult time for a lot of people. It was a political era in which people struggled a lot. Woodstock gave people a glimmer of hope during a hard time. For that reason, this iconic photo became the most memorable. These two love birds are now 69 years old. Bobbi Kelly and Nick Ercoline were dating at the time of Woodstock, and they quickly became Woodstock icons. The lovers stand there, experiencing a beautiful sunrise, and it just speaks volumes.
The couple represented so much to so many. What the two felt in this photo, everyone else around them seemed to feel as well. A photographer from Magnum took this candid shot, which they will forever treasure, since Bobbi and Nick eventually got married and had children together. At the time of the photo, Jefferson Airplane was performing, and the couple was enjoying the moment,taking in the music and the experience.
Rocking with Jimi Hendrix
There were over 30 musicians set to perform on the stage at Woodstock. Jimi Hendrix was one of them. He headlined the festival - and only performed for about 30,000 attendees. Unfortunately, since he was last, most people had already gone home due to the unfavorable weather conditions, such as rain and extreme heat.
Jimi Hendrix earned the most money out of anyone who performed at Woodstock. He walked away with $18,000. The performance lasted for two amazing hours. It has been said that this performance at Woodstock went down in history for him and his band Gypsy Sun and Rainbows.
Some Shut-Eye
The festival was put on at Max Yasgur’s dairy farm. No one expected that over 400,000 people would attend the festival. This oversight resulted in traffic backups and not nearly enough space inside for all of the people.
This man, like so many other people who came to Woodstock, resorted to using his car as a bed because it was far too hot to sleep anywhere else. Some people were lucky enough to have supplies and built tents and forts with sleeping bags. Space was extremely limited on the ground, which meant most people had to find their vehicles. The next problem was actually finding their cars… The traffic was so severe that some people could not even get to their vehicles.
Food For Love
The people who came to Woodstock were all about unity. They loved to share their belongings and supplies with all of the other Woodstock attendees. Sharing was extremely important to the people at Woodstock. This photo captures the true essence of unity, with this free spirit cooking meals for the festival-goers at Woodstock.
The number of people that came to Woodstock surpassed the number anyone could have imagined. Because of this, there was a severe shortage of food and other important necessities. People had a hard time giving up their spots and they did not want to have to make their way through the huge crowds (and sometimes mud and rain) to get nourishment, so they set up shop where ever they were so that they could feed everyone.
Peace and Bubbles
It seems so amazing that almost 500,000 people traveled to Woodstock to get a taste of this once in a lifetime experience. Most of the attendees hung out at the festival with a friend, or group of friends, and it seemed that others wanted to experience the magic of Woodstock on their own and savor it all quietly.
In this iconic photo of a young woman named Jackie Barg - she is seen sitting at the festival alone. She is having so much fun blowing bubbles all by herself while waiting anxiously for the next musician to start performing! No better way to pass the time alone then by entertaining others with bubbles.
Arts & Crafts
Woodstock wasn't just about music - it was called the Music & Art Fair Festival. The incredible festival was a place for people to come together and express themselves through music and art. This woman was the ultimate example of bohemian fashion with a dainty leather crop top, festive headband, and bracelets.
She seems to have sat down on the grass to create some art. It looks like a tapestry of some sort . Maybe she gave away her beautiful creations to others attending the festival or maybe she was making them to sell. We will never know, but what we do know is her style was spot on.
Impromptu Picnic
It’s estimated that almost half a million people made the trek to a dairy farm in rural Bethel, New York for the infamous Woodstock Music and Arts Fair. With so many people traveling in the same direction, it’s no surprise that the traffic soon came to a standstill.
Tired of waiting in stop-and-go traffic going towards the fairgrounds, this group of young people decided to take a bit of a lunch break with this roadside picnic. Judging by their relaxed expressions, we’re sure they preferred to be sitting by the road instead of inside a stuffy car.
A Pensive Moment
Though the Woodstock Music Festival is largely remembered as a positive and peaceful moment in music history and of the ‘60s, it wasn’t always fun.
The promoters of the concert originally thought that only 50,000 people would attend. Ultimately, that number swelled to close to half a million! So many people and rainy bad weather made for an extremely muddy and less-than-sanitary situation. We’re not sure exactly why this woman, named Pat McLean from nearby Massachusetts, looks like she has something heavy on her mind. Perhaps she regrets attending the infamous festival?
Get on Your Walking Shoes
With thousands of fans making the pilgrimage to Max Yasgur’s dairy farm (the site of the Woodstock Music and Art Fair), those traveling by car soon found themselves stuck in unbearable traffic due to closed roads.
At a certain point, many fans (like the people in this photo) simply parked their cars and chose to walk to the festival. Soon, thousands of concertgoers were making the trip to the farm on foot. This person looks like he’s ready to join these adventurous fans, at least, as soon as he wakes up from his nap!
Picture Perfect
Though known more for music, the Woodstock Music Festival was originally envisioned as a place to debut different mediums of art and was billed as “An Aquarian Experience: 3 Days of Peace and Music'' by promoters.
One of the most memorable installations in the concert was a photo exhibit by acclaimed photographer and filmmaker, Ralph Ackerman. Ackerman’s coverage of the Woodstock festival has been displayed in countless films and photo exhibitions. If you’ve seen an image from this memorable concert (including this one!), there’s a good chance Ralph Ackerman was behind the camera!
A Memorable Movement
With his unique style and voice, it’s no wonder that musician Sly Stone was asked to perform at the 1969 Woodstock festival. His band, Sly and the Family Stone was known for their diversity featuring people of different ethnicities and men and women equally rocking out.
With hits like “Dance to the Music” and “Everyday People,” the band was one of the most anticipated acts to perform at Woodstock. While this performance propelled Sly and the Family Stone to international fame, it, unfortunately, led to the band's disbandment and substance issues for Sly.
The Man Behind the Festival
While images of Woodstock’s attendees have become common in the media, little is known about the men who helped organize and bring the idea of this infamous festival to life.
One of the event’s co-creators and organizers was Michael Lang. Lang got his start organizing festivals for artists like Jimi Hendrix and Frank Zappa before joining forces with other music executives to come up with the Woodstock Music and Art Fair held in 1969. Lang later said that his event “offered an environment for people to express their better selves if you will.”
“Father of Woodstock”
A musical genius who helped make the dream of Woodstock a reality is Artie Kornfeld. Kornfeld, a musician and talented songwriter himself, helped produce the 1969 Woodstock festival.
Known as the “Father of Woodstock,” Kornfeld was passionate about the counterculture festival and what it meant for that moment in history. Kornfeld once said, “Never did I think that what started as an idealistic conversation among friends would become part of history.” He has since spent decades traveling the country giving lectures on the social movements and counterculture that inspired Woodstock.
A Place for Animal Rights
With messages of peace, love, and acceptance amongst humans, it’s no surprise that attendees of the Woodstock Music Festival would want to extend that kindness to animals as well.
Though vegetarianism and the support of animal rights were nowhere as popular or visible as it is today, this brave man decided to bring attention to a cause that he deeply believed in. Many believe that the roots of vegetarianism and other health food movements have their roots in the counterculture and human rights movements of the ‘60s.
Fringe Festival
Though Roger Daltrey of the rock band, The Who, was better known for swinging his microphone around on stage, in this picture, it's his outfit that’s doing most of the moving. Wearing a spectacularly fringed costume, Daltrey and his band belted out the ‘60s anthem “My Generation.”
Joined by guitarist Peter Townshend, the two rocked on in front of a crowd of thousands. In later years, Daltrey would admit that the experience was actually pretty bad due to the traffic to get to the festival, the copious amount of illicit substances everywhere, and the general poor planning.
Joyride
Considering that the 1969 Woodstock Music & Art Fair was held on the 600-acre dairy farm of Max Yasgur, it’s no surprise that there would be a tractor or two hanging around the rural landscape and many attendees eager to go for a joyride on the farm staple.
Unfortunately, not every tractor ride ended in smiles. One unfortunate attendee was accidentally run over after tractor drivers were called in to help clear the mountains of garbage left by attendees. The 17-year-old teen, named Raymond Mizsak, became one of several Woodstock revelers that lost their lives in the festival.
Stars With Stage fright
Looking at this photo of folk singer Richie Havens, you would never think that the iconic artist was actually suffering from a particularly bad bout of stage fright.
It turns out that Havens had no idea that he would be the first musical act to perform at the famous festival after several other acts got stuck in the never-ending traffic leading to the concert grounds. Havens decided to play as many songs as he knew before playing a moving rendition of his song “Freedom/Motherless Child” which quickly set the tone for the festival.
A Quiet Moment Backstage
While things had taken a far messier and wild turn for Woodstock’s attendees, backstage was considerably cleaner and more organized. Away from the mud-soaked concertgoers and the long lines for the bathroom, artist Richie Havens and others were photographed taking a relaxing break between performances.
After playing for two hours and 45 minutes instead of the intended 40 minutes, it’s no wonder he needed to just decompress a bit! We love how even the shirts worn by the concert’s staff members are emblazoned with artist Arnold Skolnick’s original bird and guitar design.
Guided by Gurus
During the 1960s, more and more people began exploring different cultures and religions, particularly those associated with South Asia. Not only were many people traveling to places like India and Nepal, but yoga, meditation, and chanting were becoming popular as well.
Guru Swami Satchidananda was asked to make the opening statement and share a prayer about love and peace before the festival began. In his speech, Satchidananda praised the power of music and the power of Woodstock saying “The entire world is going to know what the American youth can do to humanity."
Lost in the Drumming
For many attendees of the Woodstock Music Festival, the event was a place where they could express their inner artistic and musical passions. It’s not uncommon to see footage or pictures of people so enraptured and caught up in the beats and rhythms around them that they couldn't help but move their bodies.
Dressed in what looks like simply a loin cloth, this man beats his drum furiously as revelers dance to his powerful beats. We're sure that this drum circle was just one of many that took place during the festival’s three-day span.
Free Dancing on the Free Stages
Though the Woodstock music festival was known for hosting some of the biggest acts of the 1960s like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, there were others who vied to perform alongside those music greats.
On the fairgrounds were open areas called “free stages” where smaller acts, like this band, could perform. With a small and low stage lit by warm string lights, this group put on an intimate performance that clearly had the crowd moving and dancing — especially this man who looks particularly motivated to dance to this band’s music!
Blown Away
While the 1969 Woodstock music festival was known for more debaucherous activities including the heavy and common use of illicit substances, there were some attendees who simply wanted to go to be part of a larger social movement.
This innocent young man was photographed in a bus on his way to the concert held on Max Yasgur’s farm. Presumably stuck in the infamously awful traffic caused by thousands of drivers heading to the festival, he pulled out a bubble wand to blow the camera some bubbles as he and his fellow concertgoers waited on the clogged roads.
Popular Puppets
Though the Woodstock music festival is known primarily today for its many iconic musical performances, the gathering was actually originally planned to include a variety of different creative and artistic endeavors.
The lines for people wanting to attend this puppet show weren’t as long as those standing in line to watch Janis Joplin. However, we’re sure that this little show proved for a refreshingly simple and enjoyable source of entertainment for the many children who attended the festival with their parents. (Even if many people would find this puppet a bit creepy today!)
Taking a Breather
During the year of the Woodstock festival (1969), the country was full of tension due to the growing counterculture movement, the civil rights movement, and the Vietnam War. It's no wonder that this man just wanted to lie down in the grass and forget about everything.
This image captures how some young people felt overwhelmed by the seismic societal changes and how many just wanted to escape into nature or a more simple lifestyle. We’re sure he was one of many just in that field staring up at the clouds moving about this historical moment in time.
Exploring New Instruments
In addition to the many established and famous musical acts that took the stage during the Woodstock music festival, there were many other smaller artists wanting to also play their music.
This photograph shows a woman strumming a stringed musical instrument known as a zither. A popular instrument used in some of the most iconic songs of the decade, the zither enjoyed a wave of popularity in the 1960s, particularly in the music of artists like John Sebastian. Perhaps this woman is just warming up for a performance later on in the day.
On the Woodstock Express
When many think of the counterculture movement during the 1960s, many of us think of the iconic Volkswagen Microbus and bands like the Grateful Dead cruising the streets in these small buses painted with designs like peace signs and flowers.
Though the bus in this picture looks like a repurposed school bus, we’re sure it fulfilled the same needs as the microbus. With its spacious interior, we wouldn’t be surprised if many concertgoers traveled to Woodstock in this hand-painted vehicle and probably spent the night in its roomy and artistically designed interior.
That’s One Way to Get Around
With hundreds of cars making their way down narrow country roads to Max Yunger’s farm for the Woodstock Music Festival, it’s no wonder that people were forced to get a bit creative when it came to transportation.
Rather than sit in hours of traffic, these men decided to take matters into their own hands. This photograph shows a group of men huddled together in what appears to be a toy tractor/lawnmower hybrid as they attempt to drive the off-road vehicle to the famous festival. Clearly, taking safety precautions was not on the mind of these reckless young men!
Solemn, Yet Stylish Look
One of the best parts about coming across a color photograph of this era is getting an up-close look at the hairstyles and fashion that were in style. Both the man and the woman are sporting long hair that was typical of the time for those involved in the counterculture or “hippie” movement.
As expected, the woman isn’t wearing a stitch of makeup yet looks completely radiant. While we can’t see what she's wearing under that thick blanket, we’re willing to bet that she’s also rocking some tie-dye clothing like her beau!
Pit-Stop Picnic
With traffic coming to practically a standstill for many drivers hoping to reach the rural farmland where the Woodstock music festival was held, eager concertgoers were left with few options when it came to finding something to eat.
This group of friends, however, came prepared. They packed a camping stove, what looks like pasta and meat, and were able to cook up a nourishing hot meal. To top it all off, they took turns taking swigs from what looked like a giant can of orange juice. We’re sure other travelers were jealous of their meal!
An Intense Moment
The Woodstock Music Festival featured performances from all types of artists including “roots rock” of Southern rock group Creedence Clearwater Revival. This photograph features drummer Doug Clifford as he puts on a particularly passionate performance of the band's hits.
At the time of the festival, Creedence Clearwater Revival was one of the biggest acts to agree to perform. Like many of the bands performing, the band’s music was often filled with politically-charged lyrics, particularly about the Vietnam War. Just a few years after this photo was taken, in 1972, the band decided to go their separate ways.
The Road Less Traveled
While many of the stars who performed at the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival were flown in via helicopter, concertgoers were not so lucky. Those traveling by car or bus had to maneuver the few rural roads to reach the farm where the festival was held.
Having grossly underestimated how many people would be attending the event, traffic became a huge issue and some roads were even shut down. These people decided to grab their camping equipment, leave their cars, and just walk to the farm. Judging by their sunburned appearance, it looks like they walked miles.
Mountain of a Man
While Woodstock featured a variety of artists, many of us associate it with lyrics about social change and peace and love. Knowing this, it’s hard to imagine that the hard rock band Mountain would appear on the same stage as gurus and folk singers.
Many music experts believe that Mountain would help inspire the heavy metal music that would appear in subsequent decades. Wearing a fringed vest and rocking some serious facial hair, co-lyricist and guitarist Leslie West played his guitar complete with his roaring deep voice, giving the festival a bit of an edge.
Waiting for the Bus
Some of the best photos to have emerged from the Woodstock festival are candid photos taken of the concertgoers on their way to the infamous festival. This photo shows two women sitting in front of a bus terminal, speaking to two men who also look like they are waiting for their bus to Woodstock to show up.
Interestingly enough, the newspapers displayed next to one of the women featured a picture of the ticker-tape parade that was held in honor of the historical Apollo 11 mission to the moon which had occurred about a month prior.
Not the Best Choice of Beverage
If you were planning to go to a multi-day long music festival held on a rural farm in upstate New York, you would probably consider bringing non-perishable foods and plenty of water.
This woman, however, seems to have missed the memo that most dairy products require refrigeration in order to keep them fresh and safe to drink. She was photographed holding a carton of milk as she explored the fairgrounds of the festival. Strange choice of beverage if you ask us, but then again, many things seen at Woodstock would be considered strange today!
A Fleeting Glance
Known for his perfectionism, singer John Fogerty, featured in this image, would later decry his band’s performance at the 1969 Woodstock festival saying it “wasn’t our best.”
He added that he was disappointed to have had to perform after The Grateful Dead, who Fogerty claimed: “put half a million people to sleep!” The singer claimed that he was only inspired to play after seeing one man in the far distance holding up a lighter. He claimed he “played the rest of the show for that guy.” What a lucky man!
Parking Lot Meet Up
While there is no shortage of images of attendees of the Woodstock music festival caked with mud or looking worse for wear during the festival, it’s interesting to see what these people looked like before the festival began.
These concertgoers are just arriving at the farm stocked with necessities like beverages and even extra gas. Unfortunately, despite the festival being considered an opportunity to improve the world through music, the ground looks completely littered with garbage. A major contrast to the values espoused by many of the people who attended.
The Ultimate Backstage Pass
Wearing a pair of still-stylish Lee Riders jeans, this festival attendee named Melinda Lubinsky flashes a much-coveted “All Area Performer Pass” for the Aquarian Exposition which was later known as the Woodstock Music Festival.
While we’re not sure exactly why or how this woman was able to receive this backstage pass, we’re sure that she saw some pretty incredible things! It must have been amazing to have been given access to one of the greatest musical performances in history. We’re sure she has some truly unforgettable moments and memories of this event.
A Fashionable Trek Towards the Festival
Images from the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival offer a treasure trove of images that capture just how much fashion was changing. While the man behind our subject seems to be wearing a practical linen shirt and jeans as he lugs his camping gear, the man front-and-center considered Woodstock to be his own personal fashion runway.
Wearing tight pants held up with a belt, this man paired his outfit with a tie-dyed shirt and heavy suede jacket. To top it off, a pink scarf. This man couldn't look more stylish if he tried!
The Girl With the Grapes
While, according to many historians, there was no shortage of illicit substances or generally unsafe behavior, it seems that not everyone was partaking in unhealthy activities.
This woman decided to start her journey to the Woodstock music festival on a healthy note. She decided to munch on a bunch of grapes as she waited for the bus that would take her to Max Yasgur’s farm. Considering that the festival was known to have had very few options for food, we’re sure she was thankful to have packed some healthy and delicious snacks!
A Beatles-Inspired Look
While there were many styles representative of the 1960s, one of the most popular subcultures to emerge from the decade were the “hippies” — a name given to young members of this unconventionally dressed and unconventionally thinking generation.
This photo of two “hippies'' making their way toward the festival exemplifies the fashion of the time. Barefoot and wearing long curly hair and a brass-band uniform jacket (largely inspired by The Beatles), these two men are presumably on their way to meet up with fellow hippies.
Woodstock’s Forgotten Acts
Seen as a festival to celebrate the emerging counterculture and popularity of psychedelics, many bands emerged like The Incredible String Band, a “psychedelic folk” band that often fused music and surreal poetry during their performances.
This photo shows one of the band's members, Christina ‘Licorice’ McKechnie. The band, which was forced to perform on the same day as hard rock acts, was largely panned and wasn't even included in the documentary about the festival. Sadly, just close to 20 years after this photo was taken, McKechnie disappeared while hitchhiking in Arizona and was never heard from again.
Sweet Performance by Sweetwater
Though they were initially supposed to open the iconic music festival, the rock band Sweetwater became stuck in the gridlock traffic that also held back thousands of other drivers hoping to make their way to the Woodstock music festival.
Though their opening slot was taken by singer Richie Havens, Sweetwater eventually got their turn and became the first band to perform. Just a few months after this photo was taken, singer Nancy Nevins was involved in a serious car accident that left her unable to sing and perform, eventually leading to the demise of the band.
Bucking the Trend
Glancing at the photos from the Woodstock Music Festival often gives historians a better idea of what people were actually wearing versus flipping through the pages of a fashion magazine from the decade.
One of the most common garments for both men and women was fringed jackets and vests, typically made from suede or buckskin. During the ‘60s, the influence of Native American culture and traditional costumes began to appear in everyday fashion. Items such as moccasins, beads, and fringe accents became common elements in the fashion of the decade as demonstrated by this fashionable concertgoer.
An Ideal Business Model
It is often said that one of the most important things when creating a successful business is figuring out if there's a market for your product or service. In the case of these clever business people, the answer is yes. Who wouldn’t want an ice-cold soda or beverage on the way to an outdoor festival?
This intelligent couple set up a makeshift concert supplies store for vehicles carrying hungry and thirsty travelers on their way to the Woodstock Music Festival. At just 25 cents, we consider that cold drink to be quite the steal! We wonder how many cans of soda they sold.
A Family Affair
It's easy to assume that the 1969 Woodstock music festival was just for young people interested in taking part in the counterculture movement. The truth is, however, that many families and children actually attended this festival including this family pictured.
Wearing the traditional ‘hippie’ garments of the time, this father carries his son as he and the child’s mother navigate their way around the hilly terrain where the concerts were held. Not exactly the most family-friendly place, but then again, this was a time when many people were actively rebelling against conventional societal norms.
DIY Shelters
Unlike many modern concerts where seating or shelter is typically provided, the organizers of the Woodstock Music Festival of 1969 were woefully unprepared for everything from the number of people who ended up attending to the terrible weather.
Many attendees didn’t bring supplies like tents and so they slept in sleeping bags or made makeshift tents using their own clothing propped up with sticks. We doubt that this homemade tent was able to keep these people dry from the torrential rains that turned the grounds into one large mud pit or provide warmth from the chilly mountain air.
Dance to the Music
While the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival was all about celebrating the growing counterculture in America at the end of the decade, it was also all about the music. Woodstock featured some of the greatest acts playing their most memorable songs.
This picture features guitarist Freddie Stone and drummer Greg Errico as they perform with their band, Sly and the Family Stone. The group was responsible for creating hits like “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” and “Everyday People.” The group is also known for helping to popularize the genre of music known as “psychedelic soul.”
If You Build It, They Will Party
In addition to hearing some of the world’s biggest artists at the time perform, attendees of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival took part in other activities. One of those activities was exploring the festival’s wooden structures.
Months before the festival began, University of Miami professors of art Bill Ward, Ron Liis, and several of their students were invited to build what is known as “earth art” — art that utilizes the natural landscape. What resulted were several installations throughout the area including one large structure known as the “playground.”
A Secret Skinny-Dip
The Woodstock music festival was all about embracing the societal movements and counterculture that had emerged in the 1960s, specifically rejecting societal norms regarding nudity and intimacy.
For this reason, many of the photos to emerge from this festival feature attendees in various states of undress, even in some rather compromising positions. Beyond just promoting “free love”, the festival encouraged patrons to explore the connections between their bodies and nature. This couple decided to take in the great outdoors and cool down with a little impromptu skinny dip in this lake.
Guitar Master
Though guitarist Carlos Santana is known for his legendary guitar skills, he wasn’t the only renowned guitarist performing on that stage that afternoon at the 1969 Woodstock music festival. In addition to his fellow Santana bandmates, guitarist David Brown helped the band play their biggest hits including “Soul Sacrifice” and “Evil Ways.”
The coverage the band received resulted in international fame and countless chart-topping hits and awards. Unfortunately, just a few years after this photo was taken, Brown decided to leave the band before returning once more in 1974.
Woman’s Best Friend
While there was no shortage of partying and all sorts of wild and unconventional behavior taking place at the 1969 Woodstock music festival, some of the attendees took part in some pretty mundane activities as well.
This picture shows a woman taking her majestic-looking dog for a walk across the area where the concert was held. Her dog is a unique and generally less-common breed of dog known as a Borzoi or a Russian Hunting Sighthound. We wonder if they met any other four-legged friends on their walk.
The Songs of the Woodstock Generation
It takes a special level of cool to be considered the unofficial theme song for the “Woodstock Generation” and to be largely featured in the 1970 documentary about the infamous music festival. That award goes to the blues band, Canned Heat.
On that hot August day, the blues rock band took the stage as one of the festival's headlining acts and performed hits like “Going Up the Country '' which many believe contained lyrics about the Vietnam War. The performance by bassist Larry Taylor (pictured here) and his bandmates made them international rock legends.
A More Romantic Side to Woodstock
Though the Woodstock music festival was full of young attendees hoping to meet a significant other who also believed in the “free love” ethos of the event, there were also many couples who went to the festival together like this pair shown here.
The stylish pair were photographed sitting close to the festival’s “free stage area” — a place where attendees could take part in open mic sessions or just watch. Though this photo was taken decades ago, some of their clothing items or accessories are still in style today.
Taking a Peek
Like many concerts or festivals, the 1969 Woodstock festival originally began as a way to make a profit while putting on a great show. However, plans quickly changed when the festival's organizers realized that both the ticket booths and the fences that were supposed to have been erected on the site hadn’t been completed.
Attempts at holding back eager attendees behind chain-link fences quickly failed and the organizers embraced the now-free music and cultural event. This wooden fence that fans are holding onto was probably erected to protect the cameras used to film the event.
A Shocking Performance
Like many of the acts who were invited to take part in the 1969 Woodstock music festival, the Grateful Dead was one of the bands that epitomized the counterculture of the 1960s.
Due to the torrential rain, the band also had to deal with electric issues caused by the rain, having to frequently stop and restart due to getting shocked by the damaged electrical equipment. Despite the shockingly bad performance, the band’s frontman, Jerry Garcia joked that he was surprised his band was able to recover after “blowing the biggest gig of your career.”
The Queen of the Psychedelic Music Scene
When we think of the 1960s, specifically the women who took part in the counterculture movement of the decade, many people think of artist and singer-songwriter Grace Slick. Slick is known mostly for her collaboration with the psychedelic rock group Jefferson Airplane (seen in the background of this photo).
Slick helped the band achieve fame with her powerful and haunting voice in classic tunes like “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love.” With her dark eyeliner and fringed frock, Slick looked every bit the style and music icon as she was photographed.