The First Lady of Motor Sports and an Awed Fan
Linda Vaughn didn't earn titles like "The First Lady of Motor Sports" or "Miss Hurst Golden Shifter" by just sitting around and looking pretty―not that there's anything wrong with that. Instead, she earned a reputation as one of the most iconic spokespersons in the automotive world by learning all she could about the business of motors.
Today, Vaughn is fondly acknowledged as the woman who helped put the Hurst brand on the map. And as part of the job description, she also got to attend more than a fair share of racing events. Still, if this photo hints at anything, it's that Vaughn knows her way around a vehicle.
Charlton Heston and Linda Harrison in "Planet of the Apes," 1968
Today, many may have some hang-ups about Linda Harrison playing the mute "Nova" in the 1968 classic "Planet of the Apes." But when the original film premiered in 1968, it was a commercial success, earning over $30 million at the box office.
It's easy to see why it gained such instant popularity. Not only did it pair Harrison with the talented Charles Heston, but the movie also explored prevalent issues of the time, such as race, gender, and fears for the future. And anyone who's seen the blockbuster can tell it was pretty revolutionary for the time, especially thanks to the special effects.
Flight Attendants from the World’s Friendliest Airline
This isn't a group of pop stars taking behind-the-scenes photos before stepping out on stage to wow screaming fans. Instead, they are flight attendants who worked with Pacific Southwest Airlines in the early '70s. The airline operated from 1949 to 1988 and is best known for coming up with one of the most iconic marketing ploys ever.
No doubt they had passengers beating down the door, begging to buy flight tickets. Former PSA stewardess Marilyn Tritt has juicy details in her book, "Long Legs and Short Nights." But, as they often say, a picture's worth a thousand words, and this one does all the talking.
Ali MacGraw Hangs out with Steve McQueen on the Set of "Papillon"
Steve McQueen rose to fame in the '60s partly because of his antihero archetype in movies like "The Great Escape" and the iconic "The Cincinnati Kid." In addition, he also cemented his place as an actor with an effortless ability to play diverse characters.
"The King of Cool," as he was aptly named, was just as famous for his Hollywood career as his romance with beautifully talented women. And celebrated actress Ali MacGraw certainly makes that list. This photo was taken when she showed up on the set of "Papillon" in 1972. Could she tell that she'd soon be married to McQueen?
Mick Jagger Parties Hard at the Original Playboy Mansion, 1972
When one hears the name Mick Jagger what comes to mind is the globally recognized brand, "The Rolling Stones," and hit songs like "Dancing in the Street," "Lucky In Love," and "State of Shock." And as one of the forerunners of the rock and roll revolution, he's certainly deserving of his fame.
Before Jagger joined "The Rolling Stones" in 1963, he studied at the London School of Economics. But once he got started on his musical career, he was introduced to a world of excesses. So here's a snapshot of him having the time of his life at the Chicago Playboy manor in 1972.
Kurt Russell and Mary Kay Place from "Captain Ron"
The 1992 adventure comedy "Captain Ron" tells the story of a Chicagoan who inherits an old yacht and heads out on an adventure with his wife and daughter. Just the kind of feel-good movie that will inspire some heartfelt laughter.
And who better to play the dubious, comedic "Captain Ron" than Kurt Russell? Naturally, the screenwriters thought he'd do the role justice. Still, if not for a last-minute change, Russell would have played Mary Kay Place's on-screen husband in the film. The pair make a lovely couple in this photo.
A Regular Day on a Santa Monica Beach in the '50s
Santa Monica is called "The Pearl of the Pacific" for a good reason. With its stunning beaches and amazing views, it's played a role in forging California's reputation as the birthplace of the surfing culture. In addition, the 'beach bum' subculture was newly emerging in the '50s.
It's not surprising that this group of people spent as much time as possible at the beach. Photographed by Ralph Crane on July 4th, 1950, everyone seems to be having fun. However, no one's got it as good as the guy who'd covered himself with sand or the couple enjoying some privacy in the hole.
The First Black “Miss Ohio,” Jayne Kennedy, 1976
Jayne Kennedy is famous for many things, and her television career is at the top of that list. She first came to the limelight in the '70s after winning the title of "Miss Ohio" at the 1970 "Miss USA Pageant." And as the first African American woman to win the title, she got everyone's attention, that's for sure.
But Kennedy is also well known for her drive and commitment to improving the welfare of women. So when she wasn't acting in movies like the 1981 sports drama "Body and Soul," she was busy advocating for the rights of women and children across various platforms.
The Star-studded Cast of "Interview with the Vampire," 1994
All it takes to bring a story to life is a well-rounded cast, exceptional directing, and an open-minded audience. But having a star-studded cast doesn't hurt as well. So when the gothic horror film "Interview with the Vampire" was released in 1994, even people who hadn't read Anne Rice's 1976 novel rushed to the cinema to witness the masterpiece.
And they were in for a treat. Later interviews have revealed that the film wasn't shot in the most comfortable circumstances. But the stars found comfort in having created something that inspired such commercial success and critical acclaim.
Marlene Dietrich Shows off Her Tailored Pants in Paris, 1933
From the 1910s to the 1980s, Marlene Dietrich worked through stage performances and the silent film era until she'd achieved a reputation as one of the most famous Hollywood stars. But Dietrich wasn't only known for her on-screen talent.
Her humanitarian efforts during World War II won the hearts of the people. And it also didn't hurt that she had an impeccable sense of style. This photo shows her well-publicized arrival in Paris in 1933, flanked by equally well-dressed gentlemen. However, contrary to popular opinion, Dietrich was never arrested for a supposed fashion faux pas.
"The Chief's Daughter" Loti-Kee-Yah-Ted, 1905
American photographer Carl E. Moon heard many stories about native Americans as a child. Usually, children have no trouble forgetting such tales as they grow into adulthood. But this wasn't the case for Moon. Instead, James Fenimore Cooper's stories helped influence his lifelong interest in American Indians.
Today, we know enough to sift through Moon's words to reveal his insensitivity towards the indigenous culture. But his photographs tell another story. They show a more sympathetic view of indigenous cultures. And this photo of Loti-Kee-Yah-Tede, aptly named "The Chief's Daughter," is credited as one of his most famous works.
Cesar Romero, the original "Joker," 1967
The release of "The Batman" in 2022 sparked old conversations about which actor played the role to perfection. And the most-asked question next to that is which actor was the most believable Joker. But, of course, the verdict on that is still out on legends like Cesar Romero, Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger, and Jared Leto.
But seeing as Romero was the original Joker who first appeared in the 1966 "Batman" series, he deserves more points. Of course, he's also famous for refusing to shave off his mustache while playing the infamous prankster and murderous villain. Still, it's interesting to see him handling his own makeup—more points, Romero.
An Ingenious Way to Navigate a Flooded Paris
This could be a cultural practice in some obscure part of the world. Except it's not. Instead, it's a photo of some unlucky Parisians trying to navigate the streets in the aftermath of the Great Flood of 1910.
The flood that moved through the city in 1910 was far from a regular occurrence. In late January, months of heavy rainfall came to a head when the Seine River flooded Paris through tunnels, drains, and sewers. So thousands of Parisians had to evacuate their homes. Some had to move on carefully placed chairs rather than risk an ill-timed swim.
Young Dwayne Johnson Meets His Idol, Ric Flair. 1985
That excited young man with curly black hair is none other than Dwayne Johnson. And it's easy to tell that he's more than thrilled to be standing next to his idol, the retired pro wrestler, Ric Flair.
Remember that saying, "Never meet your heroes?" It's a good thing Johnson never took it to heart. Because getting to meet the 16-time WWE world champion and one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time gave him the needed motivation to pave a path for himself. In 2021, Flair retweeted this photo citing how the tables have turned, and now, he looks up to "The Rock."
A Young Helen Mirren Looks up at the Sky, 1967
Dame Helen Mirren from "The Queen" and "Hitchcock" is one of the most celebrated actresses in Nollywood. With a career spanning six decades, she's also the only performer to have achieved the Triple Crown of Acting in both the US and the UK. Simply put, she's won a Tony, an Emmy, and an Academy Award.
Mirren owes her success today to her incredible talent and ability to effortlessly between genres. But before she rose to fame, she was just a youth trying to find a place in the world. And in this photo, she's just a starry-eyed young girl, caught in a moment of precious vulnerability.
The Youngest Nurse in the Warsaw Uprising, 1944
Little Róża Maria Goździewska was the youngest nurse to serve during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944. Even without this adorable photo, history is rife with accounts of her bravery as told by her sister.
Eight-year-old Goździewska insisted on helping out at the insurgents' hospital located on No. 11 Moniuszki Street. And she was tasked with carting water around to the wounded soldiers and keeping flies away from their open wounds. Nevertheless, Goździewska was determined to put on a brave face despite the horrors she must have witnessed firsthand, especially at such a young age.
A 1954 Holland Tunnel Catwalk Car
The year was 1954, and the New York Police force was trying to develop an effective way to regulate the flow of traffic within the Holland Tunnel. Patrolmen on foot had been doing the job well enough, but everyone believed there had to be a better way to do things.
Fortunately, there was. The answer came through this miniature electric car designed to roll along the tunnel's catwalk. And after a test run revealed that the vehicle allowed officers to exert more control over the traffic within the tunnel, it wasn't long before the Lincoln Tunnel adopted the same solution.
Lifelike Statue of "The Veiled Christ," 1753
Prince Raimondo spent much of his life breathing new life into the Sansevero Chapel in the 1700s. One of his dearest wishes in life was to have a statue of Jesus draped in a thin shroud. So, when he handpicked Antonio Corradini for the work, he stipulated that the figure and the veil be carved out of the same marble slab.
Today, "The Veiled Christ" lies in the nave of the Sansevero Chapel in Naples, with every detail of his body showing through the thin shroud. And the genius behind this incredible work of art is Giuseppe Sanmartino, who took on the job after Corradini's death.
Elvis Presley and Mary Selph Take a Ride, 1972
The passengers in that car seem as stunned as anyone would be to see a world-famous star in the flesh. But everyone knows all about Elvis Presley and his many accomplishments. So what's up with the lady in the back?
That's Mary Selph. She had been working as a dancer and singer at the Whirlaway Club when one member of Elvis' Memphis crew noted how much she looked like Elvis' ex, Priscilla. Soon enough, Mary and Elvis were introduced, and they started dating. Guess a perk of dating a superstar is getting to ride on his 1971 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra-Glide.
How Things Were Done in the '50s Before Texting Became a Thing
Every generation thinks they've got it much better than the previous era. But pictures like this prove that we're not so different after all. But, of course, in today's world, these girls would rather hide their phones behind the book to send texts to their besties while the teacher goes on and on about photosynthesis.
But in the '50s, such luxuries were nonexistent and unimaginable. So students had to resort to passing notes to do some gossiping while being tutored. And if there's one thing every generation can relate to, it's the excitement of sharing tidbits—even during a class.
San Francisco's Cliff House, 1907
It is okay to live in a shoe or a basket when you're a character in a fairytale. But in the real world, a house built on a cliff raises many eyebrows, which explains why this San Francisco castle has been a famous attraction since it was built.
The Cliff house became a place of interest in 1883 when self-made millionaire Adolf Sutro bought it from the original owner. And his desire to cement the house's position as a historic attraction appears to be ongoing. After all, in 2022, negotiations continued with plans to revive the Cliff House into the restaurant it once was.
Installation of a Greek Revival Architectural Column on the St. Louis Civil Courts Building, 1928
Architects and engineers may create wonders that grace various cities around the world. But the real heroes are the construction workers who bring their ideas to fruition. And of course, these brave young men reviving the Greek architectural column on the St. Louis building in 1928 are proof of this fact.
This photo taken by W.C. Runder is the only proof that this construction did take place in the early ‘30s. And though the workers seem to be only a second away from a long, hard fall, history tells us that no casualties were recorded during the placement of this Greek design.
Jack Harley, the Infamous Tin Man, 1939
When Lyman Frank Baum was busy writing "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," he couldn't have imagined that his story would be so well-received by families worldwide. But it was, and now, we have more adaptations than we count as proof of the story's positive reception.
But every copy owes its life to an original. And the 1939 "Wizard of Oz" film is a true classic. Here's Jack Haley playing the infamous "Tin Man" with some help from aluminum powder makeup. Interestingly, Buddy Ebsen was initially handpicked, but allergies kept him from playing the role.
Elvis Presley, Being a Proud Mama’s Boy
This photo of Gladys and Elvis Presley provides only a glimpse of their strong bond. Of course, it's perfectly natural for a mother to protect her children. But after Gladys lost Elvis' twin to stillbirth, she spent the rest of her life showering her surviving son with all the love she could muster.
It's hard to say whether Elvis would have become "The King of Rock and Roll" and such a significant cultural icon without his mother's influence. In return, he dedicated songs like "That's Someone You Never Forget" and "Mama Liked the Roses" to her.
Knife Grinders on Recess, France, 1902
This photo gives an insight into the plight of knife grinders in France during the early '00s. At first glance, it may look like these men are taking a nap. But even back then, napping on the job wasn't considered proper behavior.
So here's the gist―knife grinders in factories were encouraged to lay face down at work to protect their backs from being hunched over all day. Sometimes, they were even encouraged to bring their dogs along to keep them company and act as heaters. But in today's world, this would be a health and safety hazard.
The Construction of the Statue of Liberty in France, 1880s
With the giant arm and somber air, this could be the setting of a gothic film. But what this photo really shows is a group of craftsmen working on the arm of the infamous Statue of Liberty at the National Park Service in Paris.
French artisans and craftsmen began work on the status in 1876 under the supervision of famous sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi. The monument was created in honor of the United States' centennial of independence and relationship with France. And on October 1886, the fully assembled statue was finally unveiled in New York.
High Noon at the Elk Horn Saloon in Montana, 1915
You’ve seen this scene or something similar in your favorite Western movie. A group of well-dressed men hanging around a bar and having a few cigars while trading woes over a few glasses of whiskey. But unlike the scene in a movie, this photo was taken in an actual saloon in 1915.
The elk head saloon―with a mounted elk head to drive the point home―was located in Fergus County, Montana. And the building was originally constructed before 1900. In line with the times, the men are all sporting well-groomed mustaches. Also, that fellow with his leg on the rail is Ed Martin, the Sheriff of Fergus County.
Tree-top Seats at the 1932 Chicago Cubs Game in Wrigley Field
The year 1932 was significant for the Chicago Cubs. After placing first in the National League, they earned the right to compete in their seventh World Series. And baseball fans from across the nation made it to Wrigley Fields to witness the iconic game between the Cubs and the New York Yankees.
The game marked a pivotal turn in baseball history. But, of course, it's all thanks to Babe Ruth's "called shot"―the moment when he allegedly pointed to center field and immediately hit a home run at that very spot. These excited fans couldn't have minded the discomfort on the tree so long as they got to witness that moment.
The Empire State Building after the 1945 Plane Crash
Here's another moment in American history. On July 28th, 1945, a B-25 bomber went crashing straight into the Empire State Building in Manhattan, New York. At that moment, many assumed that the plane had been hijacked and the crash was spearheaded by a terrorist group.
But it was all sorted out in the interim. There was a heavy fog on that day, and due to low visibility, the pilots had a hard time making out what was right in front of them. Thankfully, the damage was limited to the 78th and 80th floors of the building.
The Pamir’s Last Days as a Commercial Sailing Ship
This photo doesn't nearly do justice to the majestic beauty of the Pamir, but it comes close enough. By the early '50s, modern bulk carriers had replaced commercial sailing ships. And the inability to fund repairs or hire sail-trained officers meant that the vessel could no longer make trips across the ocean.
The Pamir was one of the famous Flying P-Liner ships made by the German shipping company, "F. Laeisz." She was also the last commercial sailing ship to round Cape Horn in 1949. But sadly, she was lost to sea after getting caught in Hurricane Carrie in 1957.
How Jim Thorne’s Mismatched Shoes Helped Him Win Olympic Gold, 1912
Jim Thorpe is the first Native American to win a gold medal for the United States in the Olympics. And this photo of him wearing mismatched shoes has made the rounds on the internet, with the most bogus claims. So it's about time someone told the real story behind the photo.
According to Bob Wheeler, biography author and founder of the "Jim Thorpe Foundation," Thorpe's shoes went missing a few minutes before he was set to run the 1500-meter race. So he borrowed one shoe from a teammate and found another in the garbage. But this fashion faux pas couldn't stop him from winning the race.
A Busy Lineman at a Pratt Intersection in Kansas , 1911
Being a lineman in the early '90s must have been one of the most challenging jobs in the world. Because apart from the confusing task of telling the numerous telephone lines apart, there's also a big possibility that the workers could get tangled up in the wires and suffer an electrical shock.
Thankfully, today's lines aren't as commonplace and don't look anything like this photo. But back then, the relative danger of the job led to the forming of various labor organizations. And who can say, this Kansas lineman could have belonged to one of them.
Howard Stern and His Crew Play Softball at Shea Stadium in 1985
It's pretty commonplace for childhood experiences to influence our decisions in adulthood. So when young Howard Stern spent his early years listening to broadcasting veterans like Brad Crandall and Bob Grant, he soon discovered a passion for radio.
After his doting father set up pieces of equipment for him in the basement, Stern started hosting make-believe shows. This photo was taken before a softball game in 1985―the same year Stern claimed the highest ratings at WNBC. And after over four decades on the job, he's pretty much a radio veteran himself. Guess dreams really do come true.
The Emperor’s Big Foot Unearthed in Southern Turkey
Remember Richard Harris in the Oscar-winning 2000 "Gladiator?" The character he played was Marcus Aurelius, one of the "Five Good Emperors" who reigned from 161AD till 180AD. So, of course, one can hardly expect to meet the man in the flesh. Still, his marble statue is always worth admiring.
The statue's head, right arm, and leg parts were also discovered in the high mountains of Southern Turkey. And this gigantic foot, in particular, was unearthed in one of the Roman bathrooms within the ancient city of Sagalassos. The intricate details on this foot are as impressive as they come.
Tiffany's 1925 Peacock Doors
Decorative art styles or art nouveau flourished between the mid-80s and late '90s throughout the U.S. and Europe. And we have the movement to thank for intricate and luxurious designs like these metalwork Peacock doors.
The gold doors were designed in 1925 by Louis Comfort Tiffany, a foremost leader of the Art Nouveau and Aesthetic movement. The client was the C.D. Peacock jewelry store in Chicago, Illinois. A genius move by all standards. Because once passersby get entranced by the beautiful entryway, they'd be even more curious to see the treasures within.
Two Ladies Enjoy a Blissful Chairlift Ride
Safety standards in the '60s are not what they are in today. But then, the Jackson Hole in Wyoming wouldn't set their passengers up for a run on the chairlift if they thought there was any danger. And these ladies seem to be having the time of their lives.
Every ski locale worth its salt has a chairlift―sometimes, this type of aerial lift is the primary on-hill transport in ski areas. Although the photo makes the mountains seem so far below, it's just a matter of perspective. No wonder these ladies felt safe enough to take the ride in their Sunday best.
A 1911 Photo of the Titanic's Sister, "The Olympic" And The Same Dock in 2015
Anyone who takes a glance at this photo would think, "Hey! Isn't that the Titanic?" Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but it's not. According to history buffs, several photos of the 'Titanic' on the internet are actually pictures of the "RMS Olympia."
The Titanic came in a set of three―her sisters being the Olympic and the Britannic. Although the other two ships didn't get any classic movies made in their honor, they still deserve some recognition. This photo of the Olympia was taken in 1911 during its repairs. And the second photo of the same dock in 2015 has everyone asking, "Where's the tall chimney?"
A Bulgarian Couple from the Sofia Region Posing for Their Wedding Portrait
Each culture has a unique wedding tradition that sets them apart. And this Bulgarian couple from the Sofia region makes for an exciting conversation. It was also common at the time for photographs to be solemn occasions. So it's okay that the bride and groom aren't sporting huge grins.
Bulgarian wedding rituals are no different from most other cultures. And as in the photo, the bride shows up in all her finery with this gorgeous outfit. But, of course, if the bride wasn't going to be the center of attention, the flowers fixes that.
A Birds-Eye view of the Statue of Liberty in the '30s
From a distance, the Statue of Liberty looks like a gigantic monument. But this birds-eye view is a reminder that the historic statue is, in fact, not a skyscraper. And this photo was taken shortly before the Black Tom Explosion of 1916.
The incident occurred after a group of German agents sabotaged a munitions depot on Black Tom Island during World War I. The resulting explosion caused shrapnel to hit the statue, damaging the torch. However, the tourists photographed inside the statue's head look like they're having the time of their lives.
Montmartre's Rue Foyatier, 1936
Paris' most recognized landmark will always be the Eiffel Tower. Still, it's not the only thing you should see if you're ever in the city. This flight of stairs is located in the neighboring village of Montmartre. And this particular set of stairs is on Rue Foyatier street.
With 222 stairs spanning 100m, this one's not for the fainthearted. Still, if scaling them seems like too much to handle, not to worry. Montmartre has 37 other staircases that may be more your speed. This photograph was taken in 1936 by Jules Halasz at the top of the Rue Foyatier. Interestingly, there's barely any change to the area to date.
Shoeshine Boys Trade Tales in New York City, 1947
Stanley Kubrick was one of America's leading photographers, filmmakers, and directors. It explains why even decades after he passed, his works still remain relevant. One of his best works can be found in the "Museum of the City of New York."
In 2018 the museum showcased some of his works, including this one featuring some shoeshine boys. After a long morning of work, it's understandable that these lads should be hungry. And what better way to exchange tales than over some sausage and drinks. It was the norm for boys this young to work, and we have Kubrick to thank for this portal to life in the '40s.
Men Who Worked on the Titanic, 1910
From the approval of its building in 1908 to its completion in 1912, the RMS Titanic attracted a lot of attention. Still, behind the scenes, these men did the heavy lifting literally. After all, these guys who worked for Hingley and Sons are the ones who forged those giant chains.
There's no way to tell if they were aboard the liner when it sank in 1912. But, judging from the look of pride on their faces being part of this project is hard to miss. Times have definitely changed—and for the better. Because that lad seated on the ground definitely looks too young to be laboring in the shipyard.
Wanna Put a Smile on Your Baby’s Face? Get a 1962 AMC Rambler
Kids in the '90s would have no trouble recalling the AMC Rambler and its iconic reclining seats. When The American Corporation put out this line of compact cars between 1958 and 1969, much of their promotions insisted on the perks of having unique folding front seats.
And this photo from a 1962 advert may not appear to be doing them any favors. After all, no self-respecting parent would place their baby on a reclined front seat without support. But AMC got their message across just fine―their Ramblers were safe enough, and babies loved them anyway.
Las Vegas, 1947
Thanks to songs, films, and even books, Las Vegas' reputation as the "City of Lights" is known globally. The "Las Vegas Strip" remains one of America's top tourist destinations. Still, before its current glitz and glamour, it had a humble beginning like every big city.
This photograph was taken in 1947 when the city had just around 80,000 residents. Events like the legalization of gambling and the construction of the Hoover Dam served as potent catalysts for growth. As of 2020, the strip alone generated almost $14 Billion for the year. Not everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, after all.
A Rare Photograph of The Great Sphinx of Egypt in 1850
We can't keep our eyes off this incredible photo of the Great Sphinx. It has become one of Egypt's biggest sculptural tourist attractions. People have found this mythical combination of a human head on the body of a lion fascinating for millennia. The monument represents the face of Pharaoh Khafre, an ancient King from the 4th dynasty.
The 73-meter-long edifice is entirely carved from limestone, a carbonite seminary rock. According to archeologists, the Great Sphinx most likely dated from 2,500 BC and was built to guard the ceremonial entrance to the pyramid of Khafre in Giza.