Growing Up in the Mid-50s to Early 60s: A Time of Tradition and Expectations

Reflecting on the mid-50s to early 60s, a period now often remembered with nostalgia, offers a glimpse into a time marked by strong social norms and deep family values. This era, often painted with a rosy hue, was indeed a time of tradition and expectations that shaped the character of the 'fellow geezers' who grew up during this period. To provide a detailed and balanced view, let's delve into some core aspects of these years that are uniquely highlighted.

Community and Cultural Norms

-Rest Days and Public Worship: In the mid-50s to early 60s, Sundays were primarily reserved for worship and family time. Most businesses, except for essential ones like gas stations and pharmacies, shut down on these days. This was not just a religious mandate but also a cultural expectation that fostered community cohesion and family bonding.

Social and Family Dynamics

-Dating and Marriage: Divorce was a rare and highly stigmatized event. The societal expectation was for couples to work through their problems and avoid separating. The notion of 'finding oneself' or needing space simply did not exist in the same way it does today. This expectation likely contributed to a more stable marital landscape.

-Homemaking Roles: Most married women were homemakers and housewives. They managed households, raising children, and maintaining the home. This role was not seen as a compromise but as a noble duty, integral to the family's well-being. It fostered a sense of stability and domestic contentment.

-Familial Meals: Meals were often a family affair, eaten together at the dining table. Children were taught proper table manners from a young age, and their behavior was expected to reflect positively on the family. This practice likely played a significant role in social etiquette and respect.

Socioeconomic Conditions and Family Budgeting

-Frugal Living: The economic environment during these decades was marked by frugality and careful budgeting. The use of the envelope system, a popular method of financial organization, highlights the importance of careful financial planning. On payday, each expense category received a designated amount, ensuring that money was spent only on necessary items.

-Community Support: While the notion of a village raising a child had its rigors, the tight-knit nature of the community provided a safety net. Neighbors and extended family played significant roles in ensuring that children were well-behaved and valued. This support system likely contributed to the strong moral fiber of the times.

Personal Development and Transformation

-Life Challenges: Like many of his peers, the author was drafted and went off to meet new and interesting people. Upon returning, he did not face the discrimination that some expected; instead, he received the opportunity to pursue higher education through the GI Bill. This experience fostered a sense of resilience and adaptability that marked the era.

-Adult Outcomes: The disciplined upbringing and community support laid a strong foundation for the author's life. Although some might argue that he grew up in a bubble of 'white privilege,' his journey shows that the values instilled during this period contributed significantly to his later success and well-being.

Reflecting on the mid-50s to early 60s through the lens of personal experience and the broader social context reveals a time marked by strong traditions, familial values, and community support. These elements likely played a significant role in shaping the individuals now known as 'fellow geezers,' contributing to the resilience and character of those who have lived through and beyond this era.