I have soft spot for 1980s computer tech. Maybe it’s because I grew up during the start of the personal computer revolution and was heavily invested in it at an early age. Maybe it’s because I’m nostalgic and I feel sad for all those early generation beasties, languishing in land fills today. Maybe it’s because I’ve never gotten past my love of the old keyboard clickety-clack sounds, which were so much better than the mushy keyboards of today. Regardless of the why, I like the aesthetic, so here are some fine examples. Click an image for a larger version.
I’ve been scouring some aerial photography archives for interesting comparison subjects. I love ‘then and now’ comparisons. This set illustrates the changes to the area around Colonial Drive (State Road 50) and Bumby Avenue in Orlando since the 1950s. Click on the photos for larger versions.
Here’s the area in 1954. This was actually before the Colonial Plaza was built. Also note that what is currently the back side of Winn-Dixie along Rosedale St, there was a row of houses.
Here’s the area in 2005.
Looking South over Colonial Plaza Mall, sometime in the 1960s. If you look close, you can see the old style Publix where there is today a Barnes and Noble.
If you remember the area back in the 50s, 60s or 70s, I’d love to hear your remembrances. I live just blocks away and I’m interested in the history of the shops, restaurants, mall, etc. Post in comments and share!
Photo credits:
University of Florida Aerial Photography Database
Florida State Photo Archives
Google Maps