From the 1940s to the 1970s, many high schools across the country sold football programs at their weekly games.
These handouts were sponsored by Coca-Cola, who provided high schools with a catalog of images to choose from. The schools received template programs, with a colorful illustration on the front and a Coke advertisement in the middle, and local print shops filled in schools’ and players’ information, and local advertisements.
Pictured is an example from 1946 for a game between Andrew Lewis and William Fleming High Schools. Notice that the student recorded the final score below the team names. You can see this program up close at the Salem Museum at Hands on History Saturdays!
This month, Hands on History Saturdays are highlighting Salem football history. On Saturdays, visitors can pull on a glove and touch a piece of history with their own hands! Visitors can also visit our sports gallery to learn more about Salem’s sports history. Salem Museum is open 10 a.m. -4 p.m. and located at 801 E. Main St.
