Hop in! Time Travel to Mid-Mod Manitowoc Awaits

A Journey Through Time: 1959 and Beyond

In 1959, the United States marked a significant milestone as it welcomed two new states into the Union. Alaska became the 49th state, and Hawaii joined as the 50th. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the proclamation that officially admitted these two regions, bringing joy and excitement to the nation. The American flag was also redesigned to reflect this growth, adding not one but two stars to Old Glory. This moment symbolized the expansion of the country and its ever-growing identity.

Hawaii, in particular, stands out as the most isolated population center on Earth. It is approximately 2,400 miles away from the mainland United States. This distance has contributed to its unique culture and charm, which has inspired many Hollywood films. Classics such as "From Here to Eternity," "South Pacific," and "Gidget Goes Hawaiian" captured the essence of Hawaiian life and beauty, further cementing its place in popular culture.

The Debut of Barbie

As we move through the year 1959, a new kind of doll made its way into American homes. Barbie made her debut, capturing the imagination of children across the country. This blonde beauty wore a black-and-white strapless swimsuit, perfect for the beaches of Hawaii. With her ability to do anything, wear anything, and travel everywhere, Barbie quickly became a cultural icon. As a 1959 commercial proclaimed, “Beautiful Barbie will make you believe you are a beautiful Barbie, too!”

Barbie's influence extended beyond just playtime. She inspired creativity and imagination, encouraging young girls to dream big and explore their potential. The impact of this iconic doll is still felt today, with her legacy continuing to shape fashion and pop culture.

A New Christmas Tree

Fast forward to the fall of 1959, and another innovation made its mark. Aluminum Specialty in Manitowoc introduced the Evergleam, a sparkling aluminum Christmas tree that offered a modern twist on a traditional holiday staple. This innovative design caught the attention of many, with its gleaming appearance and unique style. The Evergleam represented a shift in how people approached holiday decorations, blending tradition with contemporary design.

A Trifecta of Creativity

The combination of new states, a groundbreaking doll, and an innovative Christmas tree created a trifecta of creative design. This period was marked by a surge of energy and progress, reflecting the spirit of change that defined the era. The world was embracing new ideas and possibilities, setting the stage for future innovations.

A Personal Connection

As we jump ahead to July 2025, we find ourselves back in time with a personal connection. The little blonde bundle mentioned earlier is none other than Barbara Bundy-Jost, the author of this article. Known as the original Barbie, she shares a unique bond with the iconic doll. While having the same name as a famous toy can be both a blessing and a challenge, it has certainly shaped her life and perspective.

Barbara’s early life was filled with the joy of dressing up her Barbie doll, exploring various roles and outfits. This experience influenced her fashion sense and taste, leaving a lasting impact on her life and wardrobe. Her connection to the doll is a testament to the enduring legacy of Barbie.

The Influence of Gidget

Another key figure in this story is Gidget, who brought the charm of Hawaii to the silver screen. In the film "Gidget Went Hawaiian," her boyfriend captivated audiences with his dark and handsome presence. The movie showcased the allure of Hawaii, with its jet-set resorts, swanky tropical bars, and vibrant culture. The characters were dressed in fabulous barkcloth muumuus and shirts adorned with bold, bright, colorful flowers, creating a visual feast for viewers.

The official Hawaiian welcome, the fragrant floral leis, added to the charm of the island. From muumuus and swimsuits to party dresses and tiki bars, the cultural elements of Hawaii were beautifully portrayed. The romantic settings and dramatic moments made the film a timeless classic, capturing the imagination of many.

A Call to Adventure

For those who have ever dreamed of a tropical getaway, the opportunity to experience the magic of Hawaii is now within reach. The Mid-Mod Manitowoc event on July 25-26 at The Inn on Maritime Bay offers a chance to embrace the spirit of adventure. With summer weather on the lakeshore, the Mid-Mod Market will feature Hawaiian shirts to suit every style. The Aluminum Tree Show in the hotel ballroom adds a touch of drama and romance, while the Saturday night luau promises a night of tiki bar libations and lively entertainment.

Joining this Time Travel Adventure allows participants to celebrate the simple pleasures of a swanky tiki bar and even swankier patrons. Who knows, you might just win a hot-pink pressure cooker as a memento of your escapades down memory lane.

Barbara Bundy-Jost, president of MAKi (Manitowoc Aluminum Kitschmas Inc.), invites everyone to experience the magic of Mid-Mod Manitowoc. This event is a celebration of creativity, culture, and the enduring spirit of the past.