Pools, Patios and the Invention of the American Backyard // A Park City Museum Exhibit

Many changes swept through the United States in the post WWII era and one of them was the invention of the American Backyard. Through November, Park City Museum's Tozer Gallery is hosting an interesting Smithsonian traveling exhibition explaining many aspects of the late 40's and 50's lifestyle which lead to the desire for and development of those pools, patios, picnic areas of personal backyard space.

From 1946 to 1956 more Americans purchased homes than in the previous 150 years. The relatively new 40 hour work week allowed more time for do-it-yourself projects and leisure pursuits. A number one priority for many was constructing a patio, landscaping, planting a garden and adding some type of playground equipment.

Over time, the traditional front porch was replaced by a more private experience of entertaining and enjoying the outdoors behind the house. Did you know the first Weber grill was created in 1951 by combining two metal marine buoys?

Colorful vintage illustrations and info boards depict activities from grilling to gardening and everything in-between. They even wax nostalgic with a pesticide ad depicting a joyful dancing dog, apple, housewife, cow, potato and rooster singing “DDT is good for me-e-e!”

Come check out Pools, Patios and the Invention of the American Backyard at the Tozer Gallery at the Park City Museum located at 528 Main St through November 20th.