Across the decades

Remembering the 1990s

Some memories span several decades. These stories include this period, with artwork illustrating the objects and routines.

Why did Mister Rogers change his sweater and shoes?

The change of clothes gave children time to settle into the visit. Quiet sneakers and hand-knitted sweaters each had a different story behind them.

1960s–1990s 2 min read

Pawtucket’s Modern Diner shows how a factory-built restaurant borrowed the look of streamlined travel.

Across the decades 3 min read

A videocassette kept its physical position after playback. That explains an extra job at the end of movie night.

1990s 3 min read

The flexible recording disk and its protective cover were different things—and the format began before the home PC.

1980s & 1990s 3 min read

An old catalog preserves product choices and sales language—but its prices need context.

1960s–1990s 3 min read

Taking a picture and making a visible photograph were separate steps. Negatives and prints did different jobs.

1980s & 1990s 3 min read

The classic rules and a household jackpot are different games in one familiar box.

Across the decades 3 min read