Back in the
day, phones were mounted to the wall. Rotary phones were used to activate the
prayer list, not take a picture.
Thank goodness we are now able to preview photos (and delete them!) before shipping them off to the photo lab. Photographers of the past didn’t have that luxury, which resulted in some odd or unexpected pictures—and we’re glad these survived!
1. Hog Wild
His parents wouldn’t buy him a pony.
2. Michelin Man and the Band
Do you think anyone ever got tired of hearing them play?
3. Ready for a Close-Up
MGM built a lion’s cage inside a sound stage to record the iconic lion’s roar at the beginning of their films.
4. Elevated Parking Garage
Chicago is known for the “L” train. The city was also home to the “L” garage for Model T’s.
5. Alcoholic Walking Stick
It’s handy because you can use the cane to keep your balance after getting a little tipsy. (Photo courtesy of The Vintage News)
6. Church Directory Photo
If your tie has a stain on it, you can always borrow your infant child’s tie. No one will notice the difference.
7. Dinner To Go
Is this a picnic for the patrons, or for the alligators? (Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Public Library)
8. A Regular Day at the Fair
It’s unclear if this couple was patronizing the fair or performing in one of the side shows. Is she wearing a cactus necklace?
9. Hot Yoga
This extremely flexible couple was actually part of a circus freak show.
10. First Botox Patient?
Or maybe an unfortunate pair of bee stings.
11. Union Labor “Stripes”
When horses go on strike, head to the zoo and grab a zebra.
12. Lung Cancer Efficiency
This device is perfect for when inhaling the smoke of 19 cigarettes at once just doesn’t cut it anymore. Now you can smoke 20 at a time!
13. First Tiny Home?
So many questions. How many people does it sleep? Is there a toilet? Do the curtains stay open while driving?
14. Oversized Load
Wife: “Take out the trash.” Husband: “There’s more room. I just need to smash it down a little.”
15. Other Duties as Assigned
Tear gas bombs or onions—you decide.
16. Early Dental Practices
Don’t worry, you won’t feel a thing. (Photo courtesy of Wellcome Library, London)
17. Wrestling Club?
Actually, these kids are practicing swimming techniques out of the water.
18. Yes, ladies. We are single.
What gave it away? The overalls turned into swimwear, or the bathing suit held up by suspenders
19. Hold Still
And stop touching my neck.
20. Before Tide Pods…
Kids ate live goldfish. Will they ever learn? (Photo courtesy of Life)
21. It takes two
It’s not clear whether these parents are taking their child for a stroll, or preparing to deliver him to Grandma’s via slingshot.
