My Bicentennial Memories
I’m not sure I believe in fate, but there must be a reason why I could never bring myself to throw out my Ross Bicentennial bicycle. My parents, despite complaining about its prolonged residence in the cellar of 1710 78th street, could never bring themselves to roll the bike out with Tuesday trash (something they had no issue doing with all my other toys and preciouses). Maybe I or they knew the Bicentennial would be something I’d one day revisit. Or maybe we all knew, as long as the bike remained, so would those wonderful hazy summer day memories of years past.
Keep checking back, I’ll be adding some wonderful star-spangled, red, white, and blue blasts from the past as we countdown to America 250.
Bicentennial Debut
On July 14, 1976, nearly two centuries of the American experiment culminates in the debut of the Gong Show.
Bicentennial Ceramics
To celebrate the start of National Clay Week, here are some finely crafted, officially recognized Bicentennial commemoratives. And as everyone knows, if your ceramics aren’t fired to 1325° Fahrenheit, they’re likely just crap.
Bicentennial Cinema—June
Here are just some of the films released in June of 1976. I’d put up a picture of the 6 top grossing movies from last weekend for comparison, but it would just be depressing.
Bicentennial Bill
In 1976 the $2 bill was reissued after a decade's absence. To celebrate the Bicentennial, the image on the back of the bill was changed from a depiction of Jefferson’s home, Monticello, to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Bicentennial Beer Calendars
If you were lucky enough to start 1976 with the Pabst Blue Ribbon, Falls City, or Stroh’s calendar hanging on your kitchen wall, you knew the Bicentennial would be an amazing year.
Bicentennial Brooklyn Sign
One of my favorites— the Bicentennial edition of the iconic “Welcome to Brooklyn” sign made famous worldwide during the opening credits of Welcome Back, Kotter. If you’re wondering how the sign can look both accurate and brand new—it’s because this is one of the amazing replicas made by Jack Giambanco at majorminis.com. Check out his online store. These amazing replicas can help you relive many neighborhood memories, and if you weren’t so fortunate, help you make believe that you grew up in Brooklyn too!
Bicentennial Radio 2
Yet another special edition Bicentennial radio. Except this one is ALL transistor and still works!
Bicentennial Foil
You had no chance making it through the Bicentennial if you weren’t packing at least two boxes of aluminum justice in the kitchen cupboards. Now pardon me while I wrap this damp patch of earth in foil and take a nap.
Bicentennial Rifle
Sadly all I have to pass on is a wooden spoon my mother once used in ‘76 to chase me and my brother to bed.
Bicentennial Beer
The giants of the beer industry stepped up their game for the Bicentennial.
Bicentennial Smoking Paraphernalia
That pack of Kent’s isn’t going to light itself and those L&M butts need a home.
Bicentennial Cigarette Promos
Back in ’76, proof of purchase for two packs of smokes got you some fine Bicentennial merchandise.
Bicentennial Milkshakes
Not to be unpatriotic; but Bicentennial or not, I’m still picking chocolate.
Bicentennial Campaign Pin
In staying with the election motif for this week, here is a 1976 Republican campaign pin.
I think they were going for a tree, but…
Never mind.
Bicentennial Convention Guide
If you're a Democratic delegate wandering around 1976 NYC, who can you count on to show you a good time?
Korvettes, of course! I am a bit disappointed they didn’t steer anyone to the Brooklyn store.
Bicentennial Vacations
Considering the current price of flying, we could all use some Revolutionary Fares!
Although, I think “riding the Colonial Corridor” means something different in present day.
Bicentennial Paperweight
How does one make sure their precious Bicentennial memorabilia doesn’t blow away?
Deploy the Bicentennial paperweight — no breeze is mighty enough to displace the force of freedom.
Bicentennial TP
In 1976, you literally could not wipe your ass without being reminded the country was celebrating its Bicentennial.
Bicentennial Pin
Here one for the Chicago family—the official Bicentennial lapel pin of Chicago.