The official meaning of mesmerize is to hold the attention of someone to the exclusion of all else or so as to transfix them. Under normal circumstances, photos depicting everyday life wouldn’t fit this bill, but when those photos are from a completely different decade, it’s a whole new story. Taken during the 1950’s, these 13 vintage photographs portray what everyday life was like, and are absolutely fascinating.

1. To the delight of many children, Santa Claus makes an appearance in Brookhaven.
betweenthegateposts.blogspot.co.uk
2. The civic organization, the Jackson Jaycettes, pose for a picture, circa 1950.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
The Jaycettes existed until the 1980s when a change to the bylaws allowed women regular membership to the Jaycees.
3. Local residents enjoy a dance party in 1953.
Patrick Q./Flickr
4. An area pet store celebrates its grand opening in 1955.
Patrick Q./Flickr
5. The Natchez Pilgrimage tour guides offer visitors a true southern experience, complete with authentic attire.
Patrick Q./Flickr
6. Taken in the 1950s, this Holiday Terrace Motel once sat along Hwy 8 East in Houston, Mississippi.
Roadsidepictures/Flickr

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7. Gulf Coast residents enjoy a common pastime of the decade – picnicking.
Patrick Q./Flickr
8. Four years prior to winning Miss America, Mary Ann Mobley happily waves at the crowd from a white convertible.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
9. Described by the photographer as a “typical scene,” this picture was snapped in an Alcorn County co-op.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
10. Two North Jackson Exchange Club members collect donations.
Courtesy of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
11. A crowd gathers at the train station in Picayune.
Vergie Copling Frierson via Pearl River County Historical Society/Facebook
It is believed the crowd is seeing off the Picayune Memorial High School band members as they head to the Tournament of Roses Parade.
12. Local baseball team, Picayune Drug, in 1957.
Susan Kellar Fendley via Pearl River County Historical Society/Facebook
Row 1: Pat Reynolds, Charles Strahan, Wesley Archer, Satch Frierson, and Tommy Joe Bennett
Row 2: Ab Kellar, W. C. (Cotton) Jarrell, Herman Bennett, Curtis Carter, and Charlie Carter
13. Residents grab a bite to eat at the McNeill diner, Pat’s Pop Palace.
John Lusk via Pearl River County Historical Society/Facebook
Pictured from left to right: Jewel Kahl, Dr. Charles Ferrill (Doc) Amacker, Jerry Pat Spiers (son of the owners), and Edward Carter Burton

What did you think of these photos? Have any stories about life in Mississippi during the 1950s? Tell us in the comments section below.

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