Wichita and More in 1960

Downtown Wichita

1960 was a significant year marked by numerous historical events, cultural milestones, and technological advancements. Here are some highlights:

Politics and World Events

1. U.S. Presidential Election: John F. Kennedy defeated Richard Nixon to become the 35th President of the United States.
2. OPEC Formation: The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was founded by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.

Science and Technology

1. Lasers: The first working laser was demonstrated by Theodore Maiman, marking a major advancement in optics and photonics.
2. Weather Satellites: TIROS-1, the first successful weather satellite, was launched by NASA, providing the first accurate weather forecasting from space.

Culture and Society

1. Birth Control Pill: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first oral contraceptive pill, Enovid, revolutionizing reproductive health and family planning.
2. Literature: Harper Lee published “To Kill a Mockingbird,” which went on to become a classic of American literature, addressing themes of racial injustice and moral growth.
3. Music: The Beatles made their first public appearance in Hamburg, Germany, beginning their journey to becoming one of the most influential bands in history.

Sports

1. Summer Olympics: The 1960 Summer Olympics were held in Rome, Italy. American boxer Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali) won the gold medal in light heavyweight boxing.
2. Winter Olympics: The Winter Olympics took place in Squaw Valley, USA, where the United States ice hockey team won its first gold medal.

In 1960, Wichita, Kansas, experienced notable developments and events that contributed to its growth and cultural evolution. Here are some highlights:

Economic and Industrial Growth

1. Aviation Industry: Wichita, known as the “Air Capital of the World,” continued to thrive as a major hub for the aviation industry. Key companies like Boeing, Cessna, and Beechcraft (now part of Textron Aviation) were significant employers and contributed to the city’s economic prosperity.
2. Manufacturing: In addition to aviation, Wichita’s manufacturing sector was robust, producing a variety of goods, including machinery and consumer products.  Coleman manufacturing was one of those companies.
3. Pizza: Pizza Hut, started by East High grads, was just beginning its climb to becoming the major economic power which exists world-wide today.

Population and Demographics

1. Population Growth: Wichita’s population continued to grow, reflecting the broader post-war baby boom and economic opportunities in the city. The 1960 census recorded approximately 254,698 residents.

Cultural and Social Developments

1. Civil Rights Movement: Wichita was part of the broader national civil rights movement. In July 1958, two years before the Greensboro sit-ins, Wichita’s Dockum Drug Store sit-in became one of the first successful student-led protests against segregated lunch counters.
2. Wichita High School East – You graduated and began your trip into full adulthood!
3. Higher Education: Wichita State University (then known as Wichita University) played an essential role in the city’s cultural and academic life, offering a range of programs and contributing to local research and innovation.

Entertainment and Leisure

1. Sports: Local sports teams and events provided entertainment and community engagement. Wichita State University’s sports teams, particularly in basketball and baseball, were sources of local pride, as were the highly competitive athletic teams of Wichita High School East.
2. Cultural Institutions: The Wichita Art Museum, Botanica Wichita, and other cultural institutions continued to offer residents opportunities for cultural enrichment and leisure activities.

These aspects highlight the dynamic nature of Wichita in 1960, reflecting a city experiencing growth, industrial strength, and active participation in the significant social changes of the era.