Family Memories – Bethpage and Beyond (1961)
Step back into 1961 with the family as they enjoy life in Bethpage, NY. This reel features a snowy February at Bethpage State Park, sledding on what is now the famous Black Course. Next, Easter celebrations bring spring joy, followed by Bob's Methodist confirmation at the Bethpage Methodist Church in June. In July, Bob takes his first trip with Boy Scout Troop 502 to Onteora Scout Reservation, where summer adventures begin. Later that summer, enjoy the fun times at Fernwood and visits to Adventureland and Coney Island. A year of family, faith, and fun captured forever.
Family Moments – From Thorpe Lane to Onteora (1963-1964)
This reel begins in the spring of 1963, with Barbara and the family biking on Thorpe Lane. See Barbara's Junior Prom, featuring Steve Kompass, followed by Memorial Day with Bob and Ken marching with Troop 162 in Plainview, NY. Early summer brings water skiing, boating, and sailing at the Tyler Place, followed by summer camp at Onteora Scout Reservation. Christmas 1963 captures holiday joy at 22 Thorpe Lane. In winter 1964, watch the kids building a snow fort, followed by Easter celebrations and Ken's confirmation at the Plainview Methodist Church. Barbara's senior prom in June 1964 closes this chapter of family memories.
1964 World's Fair: A Glimpse of Innovation
Experience a nostalgic journey to the 1964 World's Fair with this vintage reel, showcasing iconic exhibits. Marvel at the Ford Motor Company's futuristic displays, featuring the latest automotive innovations, and catch a glimpse of the legendary X-15 rocket-powered plane. The reel also captures the vibrant Kodak Pavilion, celebrating photography's golden era. Relive the excitement and wonder of this historic event through the eyes of the past!
1958 Memories: Parades, Scouts, and Family Moments
Step back to 1958 with this reel of cherished memories. It begins at the Memorial Day Parade, where Bob marches with the Kadets of America playing the bugle, and Barbara plays the fife with the Bethpage Colonials. See the Bethpage Fire Department's classic vehicles, including a red 1957 Chevrolet and a 1952 Pontiac Chieftain Ambulance. The reel also captures family moments in the backyard and the Stiefels planting a tree. The final segment features Bob at the Boy Scout Annual District Camporee at Grumman's fairground. A timeless glimpse into family and community life.
1959-1960: Picnics, Parades, and Holiday Adventures
This reel captures cherished memories from 1959 to 1960. It begins with neighborhood picnics and iconic 1958 cars on Thorpe Lane. Christmas 1959 transitions to Barbara’s spring confirmation and Memorial Day 1960, with Barbara marching with the Bethpage Colonials and Bob with the PBC Sea Scouts. Summer 1960 highlights Bob’s scout camp at Camp Wauwepex, where he proudly earned his red swimming tag. Family scenes feature the backyard pool at 22 Thorpe Lane and a trip to Fort Ticonderoga in the Adirondacks, showcasing timeless family moments and milestones.
1959-1960: Vacations, Christmas Joy, and a Wedding Celebration
This reel captures unforgettable family moments from 1959 to 1961. It begins with a summer trip to Indian Lake, featuring Barbara horseback riding, followed by a visit to Aunt Frances and Uncle George in East Quogue, where family fun unfolds in the pool. Christmas 1959 showcases cherished gifts, including Ken’s Naval Base, Barbara’s desk, and Bob’s new trumpet. In January 1960, the reel highlights the wedding of Aunt Irene and Uncle Dick, with a classic 1953 Cadillac limousine, joyful family photos, and a beautiful reception. A heartwarming look at family connections and celebrations.
Christmas 1961: Gifts, Surprises, and a Mix-Up at the North Pole
This reel captures the joy and surprises of Christmas 1961. It begins with Bob, Ken, and Barbara standing around a big box for their dad. Barbara is thrilled with her new record player and albums, Ken beams with his new bicycle, and Bob is left puzzled when his Christmas gift isn’t under the tree. Filmed descending to the basement, Bob discovers a ping pong table instead of the shortwave radio he had asked Santa for, sparking thoughts of a North Pole mix-up. The reel concludes with the siblings gifting their dad a new car—at least, a model one!
1962-1963: Holidays, Travels, and Summer Adventures
This reel spans from late 1962 to summer 1963, capturing cherished family moments. It begins with Edie and Bob’s fall trip, followed by Christmas 1962, featuring a new organ treasured by mom. Early 1963 highlights grandpa Dietz’s flight from Idlewild Airport (now JFK), complete with views of the Pan Am terminal and propeller aircraft. Easter introduces the family’s 1959 Chevrolet Impala, a massive and memorable vehicle. Memorial Day Parade 1963 showcases Bob playing trumpet with the Bethpage High School Band. Summer features vacations at Lakeside Lodge, where Bob learns to water ski, and scout camp at Onteora, ending with family fun at the pool and beach.
1972: Weddings, Travels, and Cherished Moments
This reel from 1972 begins with a summer trip by Edie and Bob, followed by Linda Hanson’s wedding, where Barbara and Al Madle are part of the wedding party. Edie and Bob then journey west to California, visiting Eunice and Freddy, enjoying Disneyland, and reconnecting with old friends. A visit with Uncle Henry and baton-twirling cousin Lindsey adds a special touch. The reel culminates in the events of July 23, 1972—detailing Bob’s 240Z, his wedding day preparations, and the hottest day of the year—ending with a photo session of Bob, Karen, Walter Thurston, and Emma Shenocka.
1974-1978: Family Gatherings, Travels, a Wedding, and Milestones
This reel captures cherished moments from 1974 to 1979. It begins with Edie and Bob visiting Karen and Bob Jr. in Branford, CT, followed by a trip to the San Diego Zoo. Easter 1974 at Thorpe Lane brings together Karen, Bob, Barbara, Al, Ken, and Cathy, with their memorable cars in tow. The May 1974 Memorial Day parade features Edie leading the Plainview VFW Ladies Auxiliary. In June 1975, Cathy and Ken’s wedding is filmed, featuring Sara and Louis, with Louis standing proudly at the top of the church steps in a gray tux and pink shirt. Later, Jodi and Amy are seen playing at Thorpe Lane. Fast forward to a 1979 family picnic at Eisenhower Park, where Karen, 7 months pregnant with Tom, joins the Ficht, McGill, and Dietz families for volleyball and celebrations. The reel concludes with Trina and mom at their new home in Citrus Springs, FL.
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