Around the house

Rabbit-ear TV

A television was a big purchase back then. It sat in the place of honour in the living room, sometimes wearing its own embroidered dust cover. On top stood two telescopic antennas that everyone called the “whiskers”.

When the picture turned to snow, somebody had to stand up and twist the antennas while everyone else shouted “there! Don't move!”. Neighbours without a set would drop by to watch, and kids sat right in front of the screen until an adult told them to scoot back before they ruined their eyes.

Do you remember? Who in your family was in charge of fixing the antenna?

💬 Everyone's memories

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