- Margaret D.
- Monday, October 30, 2023
Discover Halloween costumes of years past in the library’s local photograph archives.
What do Barbie, bunnies, and Darth Vader all have in common? They make great Halloween costumes of course! Columbians' love of Halloween is evident in the many photographs of children (and adults) wearing costumes found in the archives of the Walker Local & Family History Center at Richland Library. Take a decade-by-decade look at some examples below.
1950s
Photographs from our archives show that in the 1950’s it was common for children to dress in costume and go Trick-Or-Treating on Main Street in downtown Columbia. And there was a lot of cuteness on display at a Halloween party at Waverly School.
1960s
In the 1960s store-bought costumes and plastic masks brought some commercially licensed punch to the outfits being worn. I also discerned a growing interest in outer space, Walt Disney characters, Barbie, and candy!
1970’s
In 1977 the movie Star Wars was a huge hit and movie-inspired costumes hit the shelves in the local variety stores that year. And at the Waverly Center school, Piggly Wiggly grocery bags were creatively hand-decorated for a Halloween party for the students.
1980’s
In the 1980’s Riverbanks Zoo hosted a fun Halloween festival that attracted children in costumes with activities and candy. And for the grown-ups, the 1980s got a little creepy as well.
1990’s
In the 1990’s Halloween revelers went to Five Points for trick-or-treating and family fun. Technology or television-themed costumes were a popular choice.
What will Columbians wear this year? I’m sure Barbie, bunnies, and Darth Vader will make a reappearance, but there’s always room for something new.