Nostalgia Archives - Retro Reminiscing Video and Pictures

Lite-Brite: The Timeless Toy That Continues to Shine

For over 50 years, Lite-Brite has been a beloved toy that has captivated children and adults alike. With its simple yet innovative design, this glowing masterpiece allows users to create vibrant, illuminated images using small colored pegs. But beyond being a nostalgic favorite, some versions of Lite-Brite have become valuable collector’s items, fetching hundreds of dollars in the resale market.

The History of Lite-Brite

Lite-Brite was invented in 1967 by Joseph M. Burck, a designer at Hasbro. Inspired by the dazzling effect of stained-glass windows, Burck wanted to create a toy that let children “paint with light.” The first models came with a lightbox, a black perforated screen, and colored translucent pegs that, when placed, created glowing images.

The toy became an instant success, with Hasbro releasing character-themed templates featuring Mickey Mouse, Scooby-Doo, and other popular figures. Over the years, Lite-Brite has evolved into digital versions, LED models, and even app-based designs, ensuring its continued relevance in a modern, tech-driven world.

The Lite Brite is still made and sold today! Pick up one with the same retro aesthetics here!

Wednesday Is Prince Spaghetti Day!

Anthony! The Prince Spaghetti Day ad ran for 13 years starting in 1969. Sadly, Anthony Martignetti passed in 2020 at the age of 63. Prince Pasta is now owned by New World Pasta. Would that make it the Pasta formerly known as Prince?

The White Knight & The Doors

Ajax’s White Knight was a popular ad campaign in the 1960s to compete with Procter and Gamble’s Mr. Clean. Stronger Than Dirt ad campaign influenced the Doors to end their popular song Touch Me with that very phrase!

Big Comfy Couch Clock Stretch

Loonette was NOT on a comfy rug performing the Clock Stretch!

The SS Minnow was NOT named for a fish

The SS Minnow was named for the Chairman of the FCC not for the fish!

The Bic Banana

The Bic Banana pen was a writing instrument introduced by Bic Corporation in the 1970s. The pen was distinctive for its shape, which resembled a banana, and its bright yellow color. The concept behind the Bic Banana pen was to create a fun and unique writing tool that would appeal to both children and young adults.

The Bic Banana pen was marketed as a fun and playful writing instrument. The marketing campaign featured bright and colorful advertisements that showcased the unique shape and design of the pen. The advertisements also emphasized the durability and reliability of the pen, highlighting Bic’s reputation for quality writing instruments.

The Bic Banana pen was a popular item in the 1970s and 1980s. However, its popularity began to decline in the 1990s the novelty of the Bic Banana pen began to wear off, and it became less appealing to consumers.

Despite its decline in popularity, the Bic Banana pen remains a unique and memorable writing instrument. It is often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its playful design and nostalgic appeal. Today, the Bic Corporation continues to produce a wide range of writing instruments, but the Bic Banana pen has been discontinued and is no longer available for sale.