Holiday Gift Ideas from Detroit’s Jewish Community!
Hey there, Detroit! As the holiday season approaches and you start thinking about what to buy for your loved ones, why not take a stroll down memory lane with some delightful gift ideas from the past? Thanks to the William Davidson Digital Archive of Jewish Detroit History, we can explore gifts that have charmed the Detroit Jewish community over the years. You won’t believe the gems I found!
The Cadillac Surprise
Let’s kick things off with a real showstopper from way back in 1925. Ever thought about gifting a family car for the holidays? Well, an ad back then boldly claimed that “A wonderful gift for the whole family is a Cadillac!” Imagine rolling up to your family gathering in style, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t be thrilled with a shiny new ride? Today, it’s a dream many of us hold, but back in the day, it was an actual gift you could give—and some families did!
Tickling Those Musical Fancy
If a car feels a bit too extravagant, perhaps a musical gift would fit the bill? Fast-forward to 1936, and we find another stellar offer from the Grinnell Brothers, advertising “The Finest Gift in All the World for Your Loved Ones … a Steinway piano!” Can you just picture a family gathered around the piano, singing along? A beautiful Steinway could still be a marvelous present today, and it holds a timeless charm that no one can resist!
Sweet Treats to Delight
Now, let’s not forget something a little more relatable for us everyday folks. Growing up, my family found joy in simpler pleasures, and for us, nothing beat the sweetness of Barton’s Chocolates! An advertisement from December 1953 captures the magic of Chanukah through its packaging. With beautiful tins and plastic dreidels filled with Barton’s Continental Chocolates, these treats are enough to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Who could resist the temptation of chocolates during the holidays?
Fun Toys for the Little Ones
For the kiddos in your life, you might have to channel your inner child (or better yet, take a trip to a local toy store!). An old advertisement from Morris Stores in November 1957 showcases an array of toys. You could get a “sturdy” pogo stick for just $1.69 (which sounds incredibly tempting!), or how about a “Ready Mix” toy concrete truck for $5.60? Don’t forget their full-size “Grey Hound” wagon for only $5.95. Ah, the nostalgia of less complicated times!
Capturing Memories
In case you want to document the precious moments with your family, Morris Stores have got you covered! They offered “America’s Greatest Values” for camera lovers back in the day. A Kodak 8mm Movie Camera would run you $22.95 (approx. $250 today), and a projector was a mere $29.95. Just think of all those holiday videos you could make to cherish forever!
Romance in the Air
Speaking of heartfelt gifts, let’s talk romance! An advertisement from Merle Norman of Birmingham reminds us that “The Best Gifts are Romantic.” Whether it’s a thoughtful piece of jewelry or a heartfelt gesture, showing your love this holiday season goes a long way!
A Subscription with a Heart
Last but not least, if you’re really looking for a gift that keeps on giving, how about “A Subscription to the Jewish News”? An ad from December 1990 put it perfectly, saying, “This Chanukah, the People You Love Will Love a Subscription to the Jewish News.” Trust me, this is a gift of knowledge, culture, and community that your loved ones will appreciate all year round!
So as you dip your toes into the holiday shopping madness, remember these unique gift ideas from Detroit’s rich history. There’s something charmingly nostalgic about gifts through the ages, isn’t there? Happy shopping, and may your holidays be filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few sweet treats!
