Welcome aboard

I’ve never really gotten into the hobby of collecting things, but my latest kick might just combine enough interests of mine to make it worthwhile. I picked up a few things on eBay recently, which will hopefully be the start of a new mini-collection: 1950s travel ephemera, e.g., magazines, maps, posters, brochures from the jet-set midcentury!

I have two American Airlines inflight guides from 1952 and 1954. We take flying for granted today, but from reading these guides, it strikes you that back then commercial flying was still pretty new. In exhaustive (and almost humorous) detail, they explain everything from cabin comforts and “Flagship” service to basic aerodynamics to airline personnel.

The opening paragraph from the section “Happy to Serve You”: “Aladdin with his lamp had nothing on you with your ‘call button’. One rub and Aladdin summoned a genie to serve him. One touch of the call button overhead will bring a stewardess to serve you. Attractive and able, she has but one purpose on this flight: to make your journey pleasant. You won’t have to use the bell often because she will usually anticipate your needs.”

That’s right, fellas, your own genie. Just try that schtik today.

I also got a few issues of a travel magazine called Holiday. I have three from the early 1950s (one of which has an article on Guadalcanal by James Michener, and another article on Bali and Bangkok with drawings by Al Hirschfeld), and one from 1961 (the April issue is devoted to San Francisco, and even has restaurant reviews by Herb Caen). A great thing about these magazines are the ads: the fabulous illustrations, and ad copy so emphatic you can just hear that sing-songy announcer-type voice while you read it.

I love how the illustrations just beg for snarky captions, like in that TWA ad. Flustered with Junior’s over-excitement on his first flight, Mother grits her teeth: “Stop pulling on Mommy’s glove… dear.” To Father: “So help me, there better be a gin rickey onboard with my name on it.”

When I find the time I’ll scan more ads and add to my 1950s set on Flickr. Neato!