President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963 - 47 years ago today. He was buried on November 25 of that year and so the Suburban Times took the opportunity for a solemn tribute, rather than the typically cheerful Thanksgiving message. Click the image above to read the full text. "...I feel the need to assure myself and my readers as we prepare our tables and minds for the annual Thanksgiving ritual that we as a nation and a community have many, many things to be thankful for."
You can read local thoughts about President Kennedy's death and other topics from the editorial page - again, click to enlarge. Note the message about "Safe Driving Tips" from the Chicago Motor Club.
Nevertheless, I am sure many of the ads had been placed well before the tragic events that ended
President Kennedy's life, so whether one needed a funeral home or some ice cream,
you had plenty to choose from here in Des Plaines... 
Well, I hate to sound sarcastic but there's something about the image of praying hands
being associated with a savings and loan...ahem. But they meant well! 
Pesche's was back with a Thanksgiving ad in 1963, too. The model has a different look from the 1952 gal - a look that seems partially based on Jacqueline Kennedy, a great tastemaker and trend setter, whose life was turned upside down on Thanksgiving, 1963.
I hope you're enjoying our trip through time via Thanksgiving-themed Des Plaines newspapers!
1970 is just around the corner. While we did not have any newspaper from the 1980s recently digitized, if I have time I may collect a few of those images as well. I appreciate those who have commented - if you have information about the businesses and stories above, please let us know.
There is something so special and compelling about our local history - we need to keep it alive.
I have been away from Des Plaines for many, many years. It was fun to see some of your ads featuring the Sugar Bowl and Spieglers. Good memories. Thank you for taking the time to post this.
ReplyDelete