Hires To You headerThe Illustrated History of Hires Root Beer

1976 

IT HAPPENED IN…1976

The percentage of Americans with high school diplomas had doubled since 1950, but concerns remained about the quality of education and the need for increased emphasis on traditional skills.

America celebrated the bicentennial of U.S. independence.

The Supreme Court voted to reinstate the death penalty.

Jimmy Carter was elected President over President Ford with the economy a major factor due to 5-6% inflation and 8% unemployment.

Roots, a fictional account of author Alex Haley’s African lineage, became a bestselling book and the basis for an immensely popular television miniseries.

Stephen Wozniak and Steven Jobs founded Apple Computers.

Perrier Water was introduced to American markets.

2,246 U.S. soft drink bottling plants were in operation.

During 1976 Hickory, Inc. in Carson City, Nevada reproduced a series of early advertising signs including Hires' poster picturing a young boy riding in a two-wheeled cart being pulled by a rooster (see Figure 1925-02). 

(Figure 1976-01, reproduction poster)

W. T. Grant's nationwide chain of mass merchandise stores were founded in 1906.  Many of their in-store dining facilities were known as "Bradford House" restaurants.  The years these 1.5" diameter wooden nickels were produced is unknown.  Grant's filed for bankruptcy in 1976.

 

(Figure 1976-02, wooden nickel, front)

(Figure 1976-02, wooden nickel, back)

(Figure 1976-03, paper coupon)