13 Incredible Things We Had Delivered Right to Our Door in the 60s and 70s
The 1960s and 70s were a different era, where home delivery meant more than just pizza and online shopping. It was a time when a myriad of goods arrived at your doorstep, making life convenient and exciting.
From fresh milk to daily newspapers, these deliveries were a part of everyday life, reflecting the culture and lifestyle of the time.
Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to those decades and explore thirteen incredible things that found their way right to our doors.
1. Fresh Milk
Remember the gentle clink of glass bottles as fresh milk was delivered to your door? Milkmen were reliable, ensuring families had fresh dairy each morning. In the 60s and 70s, glass bottles were standard, and the milkman was a familiar figure.
This daily ritual was more than just a delivery; it was part of a community’s rhythm. The empties were collected and replaced, a perfect cycle of sustainability before it was even a trend.
Often, notes could be left for changes in the order, making the service personal and adaptable.
2. Daily Newspapers
The thud of a newspaper hitting the porch was a morning staple. Each day, readers eagerly awaited news from the world, delivered promptly by a trusty newspaper boy. Rolling up their publications, these young carriers ensured timely delivery.
In an era without digital news, this was how people connected to current events. The rustling of pages with breakfast became a beloved routine. Whether reading headlines or comics, families shared moments over these daily deliveries.
The newspaper delivery was an essential service that kept communities informed and engaged.
3. Eggs
In the 60s and 70s, the egg man was a familiar figure in many neighborhoods, bringing farm-fresh eggs directly to your door. This service was especially popular in suburban areas where families appreciated the convenience of having fresh eggs without a trip to the store.
The delivery often came in a sturdy, reusable carton, ensuring that the eggs were protected and fresh. This was a time when the local egg delivery man was known by name, and his visits were a regular part of the community rhythm.
Beyond just convenience, there was a personal connection with the egg man who was a trusted source for this staple food.
This direct farm-to-doorstep service was a precursor to today’s farm-to-table movement, emphasizing freshness and quality.
4. TV Repair Services
The 60s and 70s were a time when television was a centerpiece of home entertainment, but when something went awry, the TV repairman was just a call away. These experts would come to your home to fix issues, saving you the hassle of transporting the heavy sets.
This service was crucial as TVs were a significant investment, and not as easily replaceable as they are today. The repairman was like a tech wizard, working his magic to restore your family’s favorite pastime.
With a toolbox in hand and a knack for diagnosing problems, the TV repairman was a valued visitor, ensuring that evenings could still be spent in front of the glow of the beloved screen. This service paved the way for modern tech support.
5. Home Haircuts
In the 60s, the barber making house calls was a cherished tradition, especially for families with children. This service catered to those who preferred the comfort of home over a trip to the barber shop.
The barber’s visit was an event, with the familiar snip-snap of scissors and the scent of aftershave filling the air. It was a time for family bonding, where children learned to sit still, and parents enjoyed the convenience.
Home haircuts offered a personalized touch, often resulting in cherished memories and neatly groomed heads. This service highlighted the community-centric lifestyle of the era, where personal services were tailored to fit family needs.
6. Bread and Pastries
Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries delivered to your door. Bakers ensured families started their days with a delicious variety of baked goods.
This delivery added warmth and comfort to mornings, with the anticipation of a crusty loaf or sweet treat. It was more than food; it was a gesture of care and craftsmanship.
The baker’s delivery became a cherished routine, turning breakfast into a special occasion, filled with the joy of fresh, artisanal flavors.
7. Popcorn Delivery
Who wouldn’t love having popcorn delivered right to their door? In the 70s, this was a delightful reality for many, especially during events or family movie nights. This crunchy delight came in colorful tins, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
The delivery often coincided with special occasions or just to satisfy a sudden craving, making it both a treat and a convenience. These popcorn tins were not only delicious but also a vibrant part of the decor.
Having popcorn delivered was a surefire way to make any gathering more festive, adding a touch of fun and indulgence to the evening. This service brought a bit of theater magic home, long before streaming and on-demand movies.
8. Record Albums
The arrival of a new record album was an event, bringing music lovers the latest tunes directly to their homes. Vinyl was king, and each album delivery was a treasure.
Fans eagerly anticipated these packages, dreaming of the melodies and rhythms enclosed. It was more than just music; it was an experience that connected people to artists and culture.
The tactile joy of holding a new record, reading liner notes, and hearing that first track was unparalleled, making each delivery a musical journey.
9. Pharmaceuticals
Even in the 60s and 70s, medication delivery was vital, especially for those unable to visit pharmacies. This service ensured patients received prescriptions promptly, supporting health and wellbeing.
It was a lifeline for individuals with limited mobility, providing peace of mind to families. The delivery was discreet and professional, emphasizing care and responsibility.
This essential service improved quality of life, allowing patients to focus on recovery rather than logistics, exemplifying compassion in healthcare.
10. Coal
In the chill of winter, coal deliveries kept homes warm. This essential fuel was delivered directly, ensuring families could heat their spaces efficiently.
The coal delivery was more than a transaction; it was about survival and comfort during harsh months. The sight of a coal truck meant security against the cold.
Though technology has moved on, the memory of coal deliveries evokes a sense of resilience and adaptation, reminding us of past challenges and solutions.
11. Encyclopedias
The encyclopedia sets delivered to homes were gateways to learning. These books offered expansive knowledge, from science to history, in a pre-internet age.
Families invested in these volumes to educate their children and themselves, making learning accessible and comprehensive. It was more than just books; it was an investment in the future.
The pride of owning a complete set was immense, symbolizing curiosity and the pursuit of wisdom, cherished by generations.
12. Soda Pop
Soda pop delivery was a bubbly delight, bringing effervescent joy to gatherings and meals. This service offered convenience, delivering cases of favorite flavors.
The arrival of a soda delivery truck was exciting, heralding refreshment and fun. It was more than just a drink; it was a symbol of hospitality and celebration.
These deliveries added sparkle to everyday life, making ordinary moments extraordinary with the simple pleasure of a cold, fizzy treat.
13. Books
Book deliveries opened worlds of imagination and knowledge. For avid readers, receiving a new book was akin to embarking on a new adventure.
This service enriched lives, providing access to literature and learning, whether fiction or educational. It was a bridge to distant lands and ideas.
The anticipation of a new story or discovery enhanced the reading experience, making each delivery a cherished moment of intellectual and emotional exploration.