It was a Zenith with short wave included. Push buttons to the right of the circular display could be set to favorite stations to find them quickly. On the back was a toggle switch marked TV. The delivery guy told us that when television was available we would only have to be a screen (!) and put it on top of the radio and we would have pictures. The buttons to the left were for more treble or base tones.
I think this was around 1939. I thought the wood was beautiful and almost like a piece of furniture.
When we heard of the attack, my parents looked very serious and worried. My dad was forty-three so I think he was too old for the draft. He was also an electrician for the Kansas Power and Light and this may have been on the list of essential jobs.
I remember collecting newspapers, metal and saving grease; buying War Savings stamps. $18.95 would get a bond. In ten years the bond could be cashed in for $20.
Gasoline and sugar were rationed. I'm sure there were other things but I think there were rationing books with coupons in them.
We were all glad when it was over. So many served. So many lost.
Yes there were ration books....I have my Father in Laws books. They are numbered coupons and I guess the newspaper told you when to use which ones. It says on one of the booklets."If you don't need it, don't use it" I think Tires and meat were also rationed. Far Guys Mom used to say that her parents gave them their meat coupons because they lived on a farm and traded for tire coupons.
ReplyDeleteIt was a tough time...the younger generation has no idea.
Another motto: Use it up. Wear it out. Make it do or do without.
DeleteI remember my parents talking about the rationing and my Dad was in the Navy and my Mom would talk about rationing. I often wonder, when I see and hear some younger people talking, if they really know what sacrificing for others means.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Betsy
Radio is still standing watch.....
ReplyDeleteIs it picking up any tv signals?
Delete