1950’s appliances were designed to save time, but what was the cost of convenience?
The 1950’s was a time of great innovation and a lot of appliances and electronics became more widely available to American households. Many of these were marketed towards women and making their jobs as homemakers a little easier. It was also a time of prosperity. After many years of sacrifice and rationing during the war, Americans were able to purchase cars, televisions and other items to make their lives more enjoyable and convenient.
Take a step back in time and check out the cost of some popular 1950’s appliances.
Automatic Ironing Machine (1950) $139.95
Kenmore Automatic Toaster (1951) $21
Coldspot Refrigerator (1952) $329
Silvertone TV-Radio-Phono Combination (1953) $534.95
24-in TV set (1955) $254.95
Automatic Washer and Dryer Set (1953) $494.90
Vacuum (1954) $87.85
Kenmore 12-Speed Mixer (1956) $32.95
Electric Can Opener (1957) $16.95
Clock Radio (1957) $42.90
Hi-Fi with Radio (1958) $76.95
This Kenmore toaster would set you back $21 in 1951.
Source: http://www.thepeoplehistory.com/50selectrical.html