1951
(This was many years before I was born, for those who thought differently.) What was going on 75 years ago? What 75th anniversaries are being celebrated in 2026? Where were you and what were you doing? Here are some facts I found about 75th anniversaries and the year 1951.
When my wife and I reach that milestone, I have learned that I am supposed to present her diamonds as a traditional gift. (You mean I could have waited that long?!) The official gemstone, apparently, is sapphire. The official flower is white roses. A website, anniversify.com, gives these ideas for the card I will need to write. “Our love is a playlist of 75 years, with every moment a song we’ll never skip.” “Love is the Wi-Fi that keeps us connected through 75 years of life’s updates.” “Seventy-five years later, you’re still my favorite adventure and my safest home.”
Here some significant 75th anniversaries that will celebrated this year.
The NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) – celebrated all year
Miss Universe Pageant – to be celebrated in November
Film – The Thing from Another World
Washington State Ferries – celebrated June 1
Here are some other things that happened in 1951.
UNIVAC I: This first commercial computer was delivered to the US Census Bureau.
The first nuclear power plant was built in Arco, Idaho.
CBS broadcasted the first color TV program – a variety show called “Premiere”
TV show I Love Lucy
WCBS aired the first televised MLB game in color – Boston Braves vs Brooklyn Dodgers
NBC aired the first live sporting event that was broadcast coast-to-coast, a college football game between Duke and Pittsburgh.
On November 10, direct-dial, coast-to-coast telephone service in the US.
Other TV shows included: Dragnet, Hallmark Hall of Fame, Search for Tomorrow, Love of Life.
What was life like?
Unemployment was 3.3%
Inflation was 7.88%
Average annual household income in the US was $3,500
Average cost of a new home was $9,000
Average price for a new car was $1500
A gallon of gas was 19 cents
This was the world on April 1, 1951 when the Richmond church of Christ began. We are still strong and growing. We must prepare the way now for the 100th anniversary and beyond. May God help us to do that!
— Mike Johnson
