FOUND IN THE FOREST

Adoptions increased dramatically during the Fifties; however, new parents struggled with the decision about when, if at all, to tell their adopted child the truth.  It was a very private affair.  I knew that I was not adopted, but when I sought affirmation from my parents, their reply was they found me living in the forest with a bunch of rabbits and that was why I had such big ears -  not exactly the response I expected. 

ROSIE THE RIVETER

There were many "Rosies" living in Orange, Texas, during and after WWII.  Women held jobs at Levingston Shipyard on the Sabine River that were traditionally held by the men fighting overseas.  As the war ended, it was difficult for these women to return to the stereotypical happy homemaker role.  "Rosie" became an icon for the beginning of "feminism".

TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

Parents drove me to mandatory appearance in court - five driving violations combined - tenth grade school friends collected money to help pay fine.  Drivers without licenses were usually given warnings, except in this case I was also speeding (curfew too early); ran a red light (just barely); resisted arrest (didn't hear siren); and drove wrong way on one-way alley (HALF an alley to get to my house).  In spite of many explanations, I was in major trouble at home!

DRESSING ROOMS

Parents were concerned their children would encounter various stages of nudity in dressing rooms - especially at the swimming pool.  Modesty definitely ruled during the Fifties!