Blast from the Past: 1970 in 30 Rare Photos

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Groovy Shots: A Look Back at 1970

The 1970s. Big hair, bold fashion, and a whole lot of change. This collection of vintage photos offers a glimpse into the everyday lives, big moments, and forgotten scenes of 1970 – a year that captured the vibrant, gritty, and ever-evolving spirit of the decade’s start.

From poolside hangs in Palm Springs to the hustle and bustle of city streets, these snapshots are a total time capsule. We’re talking a young Michelle Obama, a fired-up John Madden, and even the birth of the recycling symbol – talk about iconic!

So, put on your platform shoes, crank up the eight-track, and get ready to take a trip back to 1970. Here are some highlights:

  • Poolside Fun: A classic ’70s scene – soaking up the sun and good times.
  • Lancia Love: Italians checking out the futuristic Lancia Stratos Zero. Bellissimo!
  • Recycling Royalty: Meet Gary Anderson, the 23-year-old mastermind behind the recycling symbol.
  • Dapper Don: Donald Sutherland looking suave in ’70.
  • Officer Friendly: A heartwarming shot of a woman police officer connecting with children in New York.
  • Madden’s Fury: Even back then, Coach Madden was known for his passion. This photo captures him giving the ref a piece of his mind.
  • Sesame Street Squad: The original cast of Sesame Street – childhood heroes for generations.
  • Gentle Giant: A child’s adorable reaction to meeting the legendary Andre the Giant.
  • Smooth Sam: Sam Elliott, the epitome of cool, in 1970.
  • Fashion Forward: A stylish kid rocking their favorite ’70s outfit.
  • On Set with Shelley: A behind-the-scenes peek at Shelley Duvall on the set of Brewster McCloud.
  • Bronx Beat: Kids playing in the South Bronx, capturing the energy of the neighborhood.
  • Stevie’s Visit: Stevie Wonder sharing a moment with children at a school for the blind in London.
  • Wedding Bells: A family celebrates a wedding – a timeless moment captured in 1970.
  • Kmart Debut: The grand opening of a Kmart in Santa Rosa, California. A retail blast from the past!
  • Hollywood Heavyweights: Jack Nicholson and Dennis Hopper, two icons of the era.
  • Hair Today: A glimpse inside a bustling New York hair salon.
  • Surf’s Up: A California teacher making physics fun with a lesson on the science of surfing.
  • Holiday Cheer: An office Christmas party in full swing, complete with ’70s festive flair.
  • Aspen Groove: Dancing the night away in Aspen, Colorado.
  • Willy Wonka Moment: Peter Ostrum and Gene Wilder sharing a tea break during the filming of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Pure magic.
  • Young Michelle: A charming photo of a young Michelle Obama at age six.
  • Chemistry Class: A science demonstration at a Louisiana high school.
  • Diner Chat: A candid shot of a conversation at a New York City diner.
  • Southwest Style: Two Native American women featured in an Arizona magazine.
  • Soccer Superstar: The legendary Pelé in 1970, at the height of his career.
  • Bob Ross and Raccoon: Bob Ross, the beloved painter, with an adorable baby raccoon.
  • Subway Scene: Young women relaxing on the NYC subway – a slice of city life.
  • Sky High Style: A United Airlines stewardess showcasing the era’s signature airline fashion.
  • Trooper on Duty: An Iowa state trooper on patrol.

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