# Remembrances of Vacation Souvenirs Past **URL:** \ **Category:** Miscellaneous and Personal Stuff I Must Share\ **Created:** [September 7, 2022, 4:45pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148 "2022-09-07T16:45:19Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 16\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![CalMeacham](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/calmeacham/32/35_2.png) [@CalMeacham](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/CalMeacham)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 4:45pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/1 "2022-09-07T16:45:19Z")
Wit the passing of Summer 2022, I find myself in a nostalgic mood, remembering vacations we took when I was a kid, and of the souvenirs picked up along the way. Many of these have generally disappeared, but you can still find some of them if you look. Felt pennants of places you visited, frequently printed in fluorescent day-glo colors > **[Virginia Pennant Vintage Tarheel State Neon Day Glo Bar Camper - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1146723449/virginia-pennant-vintage-tarheel-state)** > > This Memorabilia item by JaybrrdsWhatnots has 8 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from Olympia, WA. Listed on Dec 15, 2022 > **[vintage & rare? soft felt souvenir pennant - Lake Arrowhead California ,...](https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vintage-soft-felt-souvenir-pennant-1862349228)** > > Here is a vintage & scarce (rare?) soft felt souvenir pennant from Lake Arrowhead, California . The pennant is 9 wide and 27 long (not including the ties / tassels).The pennant is in nice shape. I d [https://1stopretroshop.com/item-pages/70s-vintage-felt-pennants-wall-hanging-state-souvenir-pennant-collection-1stopretroshop-nt1030111.htm](https://1stopretroshop.com/item-pages/70s-vintage-felt-pennants-wall-hanging-state-souvenir-pennant-collection-1stopretroshop-nt1030111.htm) Here’s an entire site devoted to them > **[Souvenir Travel Pennants for sale from Gasoline Alley Antiques](http://www.gasolinealleyantiques.com/pennants.htm)** > > pennants souvenir antique collectible travel for sale Bumper Sticks, also often in day-glo > **[Rhode Island Decal Vintage RI Bumper Sticker Neon Black Light - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/748726339/rhode-island-decal-vintage-ri-bumper)** > > This Memorabilia item by JaybrrdsWhatnots has 105 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from Olympia, WA. Listed on Dec 3, 2022 > **[Rhode Island Bumper Sticker Vintage Neon Decal RI Seashore - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/631832662/rhode-island-bumper-sticker-vintage-neon?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=day%2Bglo%2Bstickers&ref=sc_gallery-1-1&plkey=7d401c1d0cbc46ede0da0902637fb8a82ed51ea5%3A631832662)** > > This Memorabilia item by JaybrrdsWhatnots has 74 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from Olympia, WA. Listed on Jan 13, 2023 > **[Rockome Gardens Bumper Sticker Arcola Illinois Decal Vintage - Etsy Australia](https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/1135363643/rockome-gardens-bumper-sticker-arcola)** > > This Memorabilia item by JaybrrdsWhatnots has 2 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from United States. Listed on 30 Nov, 2022 Souvenir stickers, also in day-glo [https://www.ebay.com/itm/255262986829](https://www.ebay.com/itm/255262986829) > **[Vintage 1950's Style PA Pennsylvania Quaker Retro Travel - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/774654803/vintage-1950s-style-pa-pennsylvania?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_e-art_and_collectibles-collectibles-advertisements&utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_eI2lIFj8o7n6L_g74NazY-t95WQRAHtv2b2Eutj2F2EhcZumnz3QaAvOMEALw_wcB_k_&utm_content=go_12570709857_119179594723_507438476600_aud-459688891835:pla-354119749163_c__774654803_136752132&utm_custom2=12570709857&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_eI2lIFj8o7n6L_g74NazY-t95WQRAHtv2b2Eutj2F2EhcZumnz3QaAvOMEALw_wcB)** > > This Advertisements item by TonyAtlanta has 33 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from Bethlehem, GA. Listed on Oct 14, 2022 Cedar souvenirs, with only the very slightest relationship to the place memorialized > **[CEDAR WISCONSIN SOUVENIR Salt and Pepper Shakers From Eagle - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/911642141/cedar-wisconsin-souvenir-salt-and-pepper?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_d-art_and_collectibles-collectibles-memorabilia-souvenirs_and_events&utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_LTF53R6MT0UtPUHWgKELx_SDwJgxtmWvgP_mKOryJizlBh5xi_J8aAnEgEALw_wcB_k_&utm_content=go_12573352472_116385560821_507602434997_aud-459688892115:pla-316730450793_c__911642141_125846803&utm_custom2=12573352472&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_LTF53R6MT0UtPUHWgKELx_SDwJgxtmWvgP_mKOryJizlBh5xi_J8aAnEgEALw_wcB)** > > Just a fun and cute vintage pair of cedar souvenir salt and pepper shakers made from cedar logs / branches from the great state of Wisconsin! This set is from Eagle River, a wonderful up north town full of resorts and lakes and snowmobiles and...... > **[Vintage Cedar Souvenirs - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1265674343/vintage-cedar-souvenirs)** > > This Souvenirs & Events item is sold by IdahoFindsCo. Ships from Rigby, ID. Listed on Nov 11, 2022 > **[3 Vintage Cedar Souvenir Trinket Boxes 2 With Resting Doe - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1235919520/3-vintage-cedar-souvenir-trinket-boxes-2?click_key=4401f875c5d8adb3e6165b3232489e7de260283d%3A1235919520&click_sum=ed237926&rec_type=cs&ref=landingpage_similar_listing_top-5)** > > This Souvenirs & Events item is sold by brokenartmaker. Ships from Schenectady, NY. Listed on Oct 13, 2022 Plastic “Stanhope” viewers, usually in the shape of mini-televisions > **[Vtg See Niagara Falls Canada Television Plastic small View master Souvenir Toy...](https://www.ebay.com/itm/133957014677)** > > Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Vtg See Niagara Falls Canada Television Plastic small View master Souvenir Toy at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products! > **[Old Orchard Maine Souvenir Television Scene Flicker | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/Old-Orchard-Maine-Souvenir-Television-Scene-Flicker-/183399812837?_ul=IL)** > > You push the bottom and the scenes inside viewer rotate, the scenes are; rocky coast, beach scene, Indian, cathedral rock, fine hunting. Neat piece but note that front right tv knob is missing. Giant Souvenir Pencils > **[Mercari: Your Marketplace](https://www.mercari.com/us/item/m81929486834/?gclsrc=aw.ds&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17230947514&utm_content=t0&adgroup=137121033756&network=g&device=c&merchant_id=126358573&product_id=m81929486834&product_id=1659666677946&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_Pq2vkwoS-ldVHbQWOBLSIeZbFgHnpDQIoWZiFSSg-HyHOAXqTVtkaAqZ4EALw_wcB)** > > Mercari is your marketplace. It's the perfect place to declutter and discover items that are uniquely you. Say 'goodbye' to your old go-tos and 'hello' to one-of-a-kind treasures. > **[Giant VTG Souvenir Pencil LOT (5) 1980’s Busch Gardens World’s Fair | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/124847537491?chn=ps&_trkparms=ispr%3D1&amdata=enc%3A1X3A5TPptSV-XHuBMAUIN5g14&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=124847537491&targetid=1583904486362&device=c&mktype=&googleloc=9001911&poi=&campaignid=15275224983&mkgroupid=131097072938&rlsatarget=pla-1583904486362&abcId=9300697&merchantid=138360765&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_8uXB23sN63TjYi_nKDiIKb-e_0b0mX_JRK5qfCSGuCv-SSVMKwy0aArc5EALw_wcB)** > > Condition is used. Please refer to the detailed photographs for the specific condition of these preowned vintage items. (821• collectables) > **[Vintage Giant Souvenir Mechanical Pencil Lincoln's Home - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1180142375/vintage-giant-souvenir-mechanical-pencil?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_b-art_and_collectibles-collectibles-memorabilia-other&utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4-g7M4LbL-j8PRBGNTNcDQk-xd0P9desmUBhqGMpnQFFi22K0ZVhs8aAnNTEALw_wcB_k_&utm_content=go_12573072625_126376599824_507505546686_aud-459688892115:pla-314954652373_c__1180142375_130128849&utm_custom2=12573072625&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4-g7M4LbL-j8PRBGNTNcDQk-xd0P9desmUBhqGMpnQFFi22K0ZVhs8aAnNTEALw_wcB)** > > Vintage 1960s Giant Souvenir Mechanical Pencil. Works. Souvenir of Abraham Lincolns Home in Springfield ,Ill. In excellent condition Postcards, especially spiral bound postcard booklets > **[Boston Souvenir Postcard Booklet](https://www.blackinkboston.com/products/boston-souvenir-postcard-booklet)** > > 8 vintage postcard images of Boston circa 1900-1940. Dimensions (per postcard): 6.25" W x 3.5" H / 15.9cm W x 8.9cm H > **[Souvenir Postcard Booklets](https://preservationinpink.wordpress.com/2010/03/15/souvenir-postcard-booklets/)** > > For Christmas, a few years ago, I received a wonderful collection of souvenir postcard booklets from Jen G. She found them at a neighborhood antique store in Boston and knowing how much I love Unit… Howard Johnson’s Kids Menus (especially in the shape of caps or comic books) > **[Howard Johnson's Children's Menu | Vintage menu, Howard johnson's, Kids menu](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/howard-johnsons-childrens-menu--237564949072023764/)** > > Feb 28, 2016 - My Vintage Generation specializes in collectibles from your fave generation — but is taking a break right now > **[r/VintageMenus - Howard Johnson's Children's Menu, c. 1960s](https://www.reddit.com/r/VintageMenus/comments/4vpdux/howard_johnsons_childrens_menu_c_1960s/)** > > 64 votes and 4 comments so far on Reddit > **[Howard Johnson’s Presents a Children’s Menu Featuring Kubrick’s 2001: A Space...](https://www.openculture.com/2014/05/howard-johnsons-1968-childrens-menu-featuring-kubricks-2001-a-space-odyssey.html)** > > Rumor has it that prominent placement in a science-fiction movie can put a kind of 'curse' on a brand: witness the fates, for instance, of Atari, Bell, and Pan American World Airways, all of which went south after appearing in Ridley... > **[Vintage 1976 Howard Johnson's Childrens Kids Menu Bicentennial | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/itm/313883952188)** > > Vintage 1976 Howard Johnson's Childrens Kids Menu Bicentennial. Please see photos for condition. Thank you. > **[(Menu) Howard Johnson's. Big League Hat Menu.](https://omnivorebooks.myshopify.com/collections/menus/products/new-arrival-menu-howard-johnsons-big-league-hat-menu)** > > 11.75x8.25", illus. and cut in the shape of a baseball cap that can be popped open to fit a child's head. Buffalo: Niagara Lithograph, c.1960. a charming children's menu that doubles as a baseball cap, with menu favorites like fried clams, Tommy... [![Imgur](https://live.staticflickr.com/43/79081168_894f3ce3c8_z.jpg "Howard Johnson") ](https://www.flickr.com/photos/60585948@N00/79081168) > **[Howard Johnson's Children's Menu #11 (1963)](http://andeverythingelsetoo.blogspot.com/2012/12/howard-johnsons-childrens-menu-11-1963.html)** > > The news keeps saying that it's going to snow here in St. Louis this week, giving me the perfect opportunity to finally post this wintery th... > **[Howard Johnson's Childrens Menu Issue 2 (Howard Johnson Restaurant) Comic...](https://comicbookrealm.com/series/49674/419118/howard-johnson-restaurant-howard-johnsons-childrens-menu-issue-2)** > > Howard Johnson's Childrens Menu (Howard Johnson Restaurant) - Howard Johnson Menu with comics inside (Try getting those at a rest stop MacDonalds) Those miniature soaps from the motels > **[Mercari: Your Marketplace](https://www.mercari.com/us/item/m94784270445/?gclsrc=aw.ds&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=16716583189&utm_content=t0&adgroup=141827811544&network=g&device=c&merchant_id=130605934&product_id=m94784270445&product_id=303751648473&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4-_rB4e_Ch9qWQgHPumdwUfzRxn-ezS-iDsfZuKFmSQs9RlhoDI-xcaAkoUEALw_wcB)** > > Mercari is your marketplace. It's the perfect place to declutter and discover items that are uniquely you. Say 'goodbye' to your old go-tos and 'hello' to one-of-a-kind treasures. > **[Vintage Hotel Soap Personal Sized Vintage Resort Soap 50's - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1105166679/vintage-hotel-soap-personal-sized?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_d-bath_and_beauty-soaps-bar_soaps&utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4-3OBh0bstzGMhH8eDFYxSIzNQGtDHapwXcqhAvOFrKZzzzEPG2i2QaAkccEALw_wcB_k_&utm_content=go_12569400478_122439232031_507394385458_aud-360480980339:pla-354390949361_c__1105166679_15585571&utm_custom2=12569400478&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4-3OBh0bstzGMhH8eDFYxSIzNQGtDHapwXcqhAvOFrKZzzzEPG2i2QaAkccEALw_wcB)** > > This Bar Soaps item by OffbeatAvenue has 42 favorites from Etsy shoppers. Ships from Leominster, MA. Listed on Dec 11, 2022 Not to mention souvenir/advertising matchbooks > **[Vintage 1950s-80s Matchbook Grab Bag Set of 30 Bars - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/596607175/vintage-1950s-80s-matchbook-grab-bag-set?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_c-art_and_collectibles-collectibles-tobacciana-lighters&utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm49pDA0fa03XEY6CnzvwooRVG0ml1Z7amgbNXzRIhOzkil2sGAXxIeoaAkJ8EALw_wcB_k_&utm_content=go_12573353456_119955064456_507602434739_aud-1185363470307:pla-315896229091_c__596607175_111629699&utm_custom2=12573353456&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm49pDA0fa03XEY6CnzvwooRVG0ml1Z7amgbNXzRIhOzkil2sGAXxIeoaAkJ8EALw_wcB)** > > Set of 30 vintage matchbooks. From bars, restaurants, hotels, casinos, and small businesses from across the nation. THIS IS A GRAB BAG LOT. I will be sure to include a variety of places, colors, graphics and decades. You will receive 30 total:... > **[Mercari: Your Marketplace](https://www.mercari.com/us/item/m89769857287/?gclsrc=aw.ds&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=16866250059&utm_content=t0&adgroup=134734263079&network=g&device=c&merchant_id=126358573&product_id=m89769857287&product_id=1648916711965&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4_i7LZbnlt1TsviEIfVuIhp1vfiam4fvpD3Yab1fTPT4aqs9eafVpMaAj8KEALw_wcB)** > > Mercari is your marketplace. It's the perfect place to declutter and discover items that are uniquely you. Say 'goodbye' to your old go-tos and 'hello' to one-of-a-kind treasures. Anything else? ---
**Author:** ![CalMeacham](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/calmeacham/32/35_2.png) [@CalMeacham](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/CalMeacham)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 4:49pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/2 "2022-09-07T16:49:37Z")
Oh, I almost forgot – Mold-a-Rama figures > **[Mercari: Your Marketplace](https://www.mercari.com/us/item/m58364550260/?gclsrc=aw.ds&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=16866250059&utm_content=t0&adgroup=134734263079&network=g&device=c&merchant_id=366265153&product_id=m58364550260&product_id=1648916711925&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm4-OB3lNzRsVRj8CoTjXCBxUZ6QJ4T6-N0P6wNThiaHLEcrc6H4KCVsaAtuTEALw_wcB)** > > Mercari is your marketplace. It's the perfect place to declutter and discover items that are uniquely you. Say 'goodbye' to your old go-tos and 'hello' to one-of-a-kind treasures. > **[Zoo’s Mold-A-Rama giraffes, gorillas nostalgic S.A. icons](https://www.expressnews.com/lifestyle/article/San-Antonio-Zoos-plastic-giraffes-gorillas-16169302.php)** > > The popular molded-to-order plastic animal figurines still look, feel and smell the same... > **[The Story of Mold-A-Rama, Chicago’s Very Own Souvenir Machine](https://news.wttw.com/2019/09/26/story-mold-a-rama-chicagos-very-own-souvenir-machine)** > > For more than 50 years, vending machines scattered throughout Chicago-area zoos and museums have sold visitors souvenirs made of melted plastic. Meet the man keeping the vintage technology alive. > **[Meet the People Keeping Mold-A-Rama Alive](https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/mold-a-rama-archive-retro-plastic-mold-a-matic)** > > These retro machines, which make plastic souvenirs right before your eyes, are as popular as ever. ---
**Author:** ![CalMeacham](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/calmeacham/32/35_2.png) [@CalMeacham](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/CalMeacham)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 4:52pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/3 "2022-09-07T16:52:06Z")
Oh, and replicas of currency and historic documents “They actually look and feel old!” > **[Florida Replica Currency 1832-1863](https://store.ushistory.org/products/florida-replica-currency-1832-1863)** > > You will receive 6 unique replicas of original Florida Currency from the years 1832-1863. These antiqued reproductions have the appearance and texture of old circulated money. The following notes are included in this set: $20.00 Merchants and... > **[U.S. Colonial & Revolutionary Banknote set Historical documents NICE 7...](https://www.ebay.com/itm/221895273104)** > > A great Historical set for your collection. Includes 7 Rare banknote reproductions. This is a great set for the educator to use in classroom. > **[Vintage Historic Gettysburg Souvenir Documents Set of 4 in | Etsy |...](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/vintage-historic-gettysburg-souvenir-documents-set-of-4-in--569986896573356664/)** > > Sep 20, 2016 - Divine Orders offers this spectacular Vintage Historic Gettysburg Souvenir Documents Set of 4 in Original Envelope - Authentic Reproductions on Antiqued Parchment Look & Feel Old. This terrific collection was once provided as... ---
**Author:** ![carrps](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/carrps/32/2957_2.png) [@carrps](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/carrps)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 5:45pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/4 "2022-09-07T17:45:29Z")
Wish I’d known about that Lake Arrowhead pennant. Looks to be about the same vintage as the days I spent there. It sold for less than $20! ---
**Author:** ![Elmer\_J.Fudd](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/elmer_j.fudd/32/1211_2.png) [@Elmer\_J.Fudd](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Elmer_J.Fudd)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 6:31pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/5 "2022-09-07T18:31:08Z")
Thimbles. When I was a kid, I thought everybody’s mother but mine spent their road trips sewing. [![](https://i.etsystatic.com/8022465/r/il/861998/4096346083/il_794xN.4096346083_gyoz.jpg) ](https://i.etsystatic.com/8022465/r/il/861998/4096346083/il_794xN.4096346083_gyoz.jpg) ---
**Author:** ![elbows](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/b3f665/32.png) [@elbows](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/elbows)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 7:49pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/6 "2022-09-07T19:49:48Z")
I have one of those tv style Niagara Falls viewers. It’s kinda awesome. It has more photos in it than you’d think! ---
**Author:** ![Paintcharge](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/paintcharge/32/7946_2.png) [@Paintcharge](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Paintcharge)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 9:12pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/7 "2022-09-07T21:12:35Z")
Shot glasses. I used to travel quite a bit for work, and I’d make a point of getting a shot glass from each new city. ---
**Author:** ![romansperson](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/romansperson/32/17100_2.png) [@romansperson](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/romansperson)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2022, 10:08pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/8 "2022-09-07T22:08:52Z")
Spoons. My grandmother had some of those: [![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/415XzqQhisL.jpg) ](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/415XzqQhisL.jpg) ---
**Author:** ![CalMeacham](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/calmeacham/32/35_2.png) [@CalMeacham](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/CalMeacham)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 1:00am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/9 "2022-09-08T01:00:19Z")
I don’t recall seeing spoons at the souvenir places when I was a kid, but they’ve been around a long time. I have a souvenir spoon from Wonderland in Revere MA (1906-1910) ---
**Author:** ![superwombat](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/superwombat/32/16616_2.png) [@superwombat](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/superwombat)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 1:17am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/10 "2022-09-08T01:17:03Z")
Penny squishers that emboss something about your location onto a newly-ovalized penny. (Maybe not common in Canada so much anymore since we fired the penny 🙂 ) ---
**Author:** ![Dinsdale](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/d/97f17d/32.png) [@Dinsdale](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Dinsdale)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 1:23am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/11 "2022-09-08T01:23:00Z")
I just recently tossed my collection of pennants from the 60s. And I had a full set of mold-a-ramas from Brookfield Zoo. ---
**Author:** ![pipperroo](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/p/7feea3/32.png) [@pipperroo](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pipperroo)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 1:54am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/12 "2022-09-08T01:54:28Z")
I get my squished penny when I travel. Added a few from Michigan this summer. Cheap and easy to store. I use the PennyCollector website to help me find the machines ---
**Author:** ![CalMeacham](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/calmeacham/32/35_2.png) [@CalMeacham](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/CalMeacham)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 3:33am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/13 "2022-09-08T03:33:42Z")
> [@superwombat](#): > > Penny squishers that emboss something about your location onto a newly-ovalized penny. Excellent! I forgot those. Here’s a specialized one – plastic “Zoo Keys” in the shape of an elephant, where the trunk was the key. You inserted them into special boxes outside the animal enclosure and it gave a recorded spiel about it. There was even a TV commercial about it. I got two different keys from the Philadelphia Zoo and, I think, the Bronx zoo. They have different wards, so you can’t interchange them. The problem was that kids kept breaking off the trunks in the boxes – the plastic wasn’t very strong – and after that you couldn’t use them until someone came in and cleaned out the broken-off part. > **[Bronx Zoo - Who remembers the elephant keys unlocked “Talking Storybooks?”...](https://www.facebook.com/bronxzoo/photos/who-remembers-the-elephant-keys-unlocked-talking-storybooks-they-were-installed-/10155815813828314/)** > > Who remembers the elephant keys unlocked “Talking Storybooks?” They were installed in zoos, including ours, in the 1950s and 1960s. Once unlocked with elephant keys, the Talking Storybooks played... > **[🐘Vintage SAN FRANCISCO ZOO ELEPHANT KEY Story Book RARE SF Wells Fargo GREEN ...](https://www.ebay.com/itm/175080737743?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=175080737743&targetid=1263094003346&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9001919&poi=&campaignid=16190447015&mkgroupid=128435277530&rlsatarget=pla-1263094003346&abcId=9300820&merchantid=115019268&gclid=Cj0KCQjwguGYBhDRARIsAHgRm48M1Ax2G6axWtWDBfiq5qlkUDYsNG892mwebfmhOCGSJBltgP7egQoaApAiEALw_wcB)** > > Free Local Pick Up. PICTURES MAY VARY DUE TO LIGHTING AND OTHER VARIABLES WHEN PHOTOS ARE TAKEN. [https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALiCzsbEa73D2tU\_aqIvnEnVFFc2emx75g:1662607679177&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=Zoo+Keys+plastic+recording&fir=99k7bOp5Cu0tIM%252CdD3uOLIvI6YKjM%252C\_%253B9r6eMWFRo9erCM%252C9h2ejf78yo9d4M%252C\_%253B6sKjOL4ilX5jpM%252C9h2ejf78yo9d4M%252C\_%253Br5wWrfVLQIUN\_M%252CA3amiHyxQp-a0M%252C\_%253Bu8fjZBLfYMQruM%252CExSTYlR0A-TW5M%252C\_%253B0z-dLlydY-1wYM%252CExSTYlR0A-TW5M%252C\_%253Bat0pKYW6QaaG6M%252C\_IaN64JEQ0axbM%252C\_%253Bs-SocB1A2z\_c6M%252CPVQI4DZZobOjXM%252C\_%253BU458Z6VVROTPWM%252Ccvb9J2w9DS7vwM%252C\_%253BzVcqkxvZASD8PM%252Cywl5nGZmr7Z6RM%252C\_&usg=AI4\_-kSEYR3ZDJLR-90vvxGzMenhMacf4Q&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjHzPigoIT6AhWBM1kFHeQWA98QjJkEegQIAxAC&biw=1280&bih=856&dpr=1](https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALiCzsbEa73D2tU_aqIvnEnVFFc2emx75g:1662607679177&source=univ&tbm=isch&q=Zoo+Keys+plastic+recording&fir=99k7bOp5Cu0tIM%252CdD3uOLIvI6YKjM%252C_%253B9r6eMWFRo9erCM%252C9h2ejf78yo9d4M%252C_%253B6sKjOL4ilX5jpM%252C9h2ejf78yo9d4M%252C_%253Br5wWrfVLQIUN_M%252CA3amiHyxQp-a0M%252C_%253Bu8fjZBLfYMQruM%252CExSTYlR0A-TW5M%252C_%253B0z-dLlydY-1wYM%252CExSTYlR0A-TW5M%252C_%253Bat0pKYW6QaaG6M%252C_IaN64JEQ0axbM%252C_%253Bs-SocB1A2z_c6M%252CPVQI4DZZobOjXM%252C_%253BU458Z6VVROTPWM%252Ccvb9J2w9DS7vwM%252C_%253BzVcqkxvZASD8PM%252Cywl5nGZmr7Z6RM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kSEYR3ZDJLR-90vvxGzMenhMacf4Q&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjHzPigoIT6AhWBM1kFHeQWA98QjJkEegQIAxAC&biw=1280&bih=856&dpr=1) > **[Wildly popular animal-shaped zoo keys back at Cincinnati Zoo](https://www.wlwt.com/article/wildly-popular-animal-shaped-zoo-keys-back-at-cincinnati-zoo/33216460#)** > > The plastic animal-shaped keys that were wildly popular at the Cincinnati Zoo four decades ago have returned. And they work about the same way they did in the past. > **[Zoo key](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoo_key)** > > A zoo key is a large novelty key used to activate talking storybooks at American zoos. These were used by various zoos, largely in the latter half of the 20th century, as part of a system which played audio recordings describing exhibits. The keys were typically made from brightly colored plastic in the shape of animals, although some zoos issued the keys in non-animal shapes. > The first generation of keys were in the shape of an elephant, with the trunk being the blade of the key. This was com... > **[Detroit Version of Zoo Key Commercial | Detroit Commercial | By Zoo Keys |...](https://www.facebook.com/StoryBookZooKey/videos/1443065712512706/)** > > Detroit Commercial ---
**Author:** ![TRC4941](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/trc4941/32/6792_2.png) [@TRC4941](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/TRC4941)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 2:28pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/14 "2022-09-08T14:28:21Z")
Most of these items are familiar to me. I came here to say that as a kid, the best part of a trip was a gift shop. We take the grandkids to an old logging camp museum every year (I went there with my parents too!). It’s only about a 30-minute drive but they love going and can hardly wait to get to the gift shop. It has all of the usual stuff - beaded moccasins, rings, plates, treasure boxes, old-fashioned candy, incense, agates, geodes, road games, toys, sweat/t-shirts, etc. It has the same smell as every gift shop I’ve ever been in. Very nostalgic. ---
**Author:** ![Hypno-Toad](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/h/b2d939/32.png) [@Hypno-Toad](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Hypno-Toad)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 6:51pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/15 "2022-09-08T18:51:10Z")
My dads particular brand of cheapness would not waste money on something like a souvenir tchotchke. He was ok with t-shirts or hats since they had a use. But not things that just sat on a shelf. And it’s probably a good thing since so much of the souvenirs I remember from redneck resort gift shops of the 70’s and 80’s was shockingly racist. I would be embarrassed for anyone to see that stuff on my wall or coffee table. ---
**Author:** ![ZipperJJ](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/zipperjj/32/211_2.png) [@ZipperJJ](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/ZipperJJ)\ **Post date:** [September 8, 2022, 6:59pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/remembrances-of-vacation-souvenirs-past/971148/16 "2022-09-08T18:59:37Z")
What about a Cork Pop Gun? > **[Wooden Pop Gun Toy Classic Cork on String](https://www.tintoyarcade.com/wooden-pop-gun-classic-cork-toy.html)** > > The Pop Gun is an American classic toy in the spirit of the real weapons of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Pull the handle to load the cork in our 9 inch Wooden Pop Gun. Quickly push the handle to safely POP out the cork, making a loud, but... I had one from somewhere. Maybe Sea World? Or Fort Erie, PA. How about photo viewers? I have one from Geauga Lake amusement park (which, like Sea World Ohio, was not really a family vacation but a trip to the next town over) > **[Vintage Photo Slide Viewers. 1970s Lot of Four Souvenir Viewer - Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1152664718/vintage-photo-slide-viewers-1970s-lot-of)** > > A Lot of Four Vintage Photo Slide Viewer keychains. This lot of four souvenirs are all included for this low price. The two Black larger ones are advertising for Artisitc License Inc and the two Red ones are for Bahamas Princess. These are plastic... And re: historical documents. I bought a copy of the US Constitution from COSI in Columbus. It appeared to be printed on “period” paper but I mostly remember that it smelled weird! Oddly enough I just bought myself a nice felt pennant, from the Joe Pera merch site. It has a picture of a tomato and Joe’s name.