1

Watching TV together at a fixed time

Back when the only screen in the house was the TV in the living room, families gathered every night to watch their favorite shows at a specific time.

Long before streaming services let us pause, rewind, skip commercials, binge, or watch on demand, families built their evenings around the TV schedule. Shows like I Love Lucy , The Ed Sullivan Show , and later M A S H and The Cosby Show gave millions of Americans something to laugh and talk about together the next day. By the 2000s, though, that shared experience began to fade. With endless entertainment available anytime on phones, tablets, and computers, families no longer had to gather around one screen at one set hour.

2

Drive-in movies

A night at the drive-in was about much more than just watching a movie. Families piled into the car with blankets and snacks, kids often already wearing their pajamas, while teenagers saw it as the perfect date night. It was a kind of movie experience that today’s theaters can’t quite recreate.

But beginning in the 1970s, many drive-ins started disappearing. Growing suburban property values made those huge lots that provided low-cost entertainment harder to maintain, while cable TV and VHS gave families an easier and cheaper option: staying home to watch movies instead. Despite all this, drive-ins didn’t disappear completely. Around 300 are still operating across the country today, including famous spots like Bengies Drive-In Theatre in Middle River, Maryland, home to one of the largest movie screens in America, at 52 feet high by 120 feet wide.

3

Browsing the Sears catalog before Christmas

Long before Amazon, we had another way to shop remotely: the famous Sears catalog. For many families, the arrival of the Sears Christmas "Wish Book" was one of the signs that the holiday season had begun.

Kids spent hours flipping through its pages, circling toys they dreamed of, while parents browsed everything from clothes and appliances to tools and furniture. You filled out an order form, mailed in a check, and waited for your package to arrive. First introduced in 1933, the beloved Wish Book remained a holiday tradition for generations, but as online shopping grew and Sears struggled to keep up with changing times, the iconic catalog slowly disappeared before being discontinued in 2011.

4

Larger celebrations

Years ago, holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving often meant one thing: the whole family gathering in one house. The turkey had to be big enough for everyone, and folding tables appeared out of nowhere for cousins, grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Holiday gatherings are still an important American tradition, but they are often smaller than they used to be. Today, many families celebrate with only close relatives or a few friends instead of the massive family reunions. And there’s something that explains part of this phenomenon: in earlier generations, these holidays were one of the few chances extended families had to truly reconnect. Long-distance calls were expensive, travel was harder, and there were no video calls to keep everyone in touch year-round. Ironically, even though we were far apart, we actually saw each other in person more often.

5

Waiting for photos to be developed

For much of the 20th century, capturing memories meant waiting days, sometimes weeks, for vacation and holiday photos to be developed. And that wait was part of the fun. There was always a little excitement in wondering how the pictures had turned out, along with the surprise of discovering funny or beautiful moments you didn’t even remember capturing.

Those photos didn’t stay buried in a phone gallery; they filled family albums, sat in frames around the house, and became something families pulled out to relive old memories. But beginning in the 1980s, instant cameras like Polaroid and later digital photography slowly changed all that. Today, we can instantly take and keep thousands of pictures, but nothing compares to the analog experience.

6

Popping over to a friend’s house unannounced

Young people today often wonder how we made plans, checked if friends were home, or stayed connected before cell phones. The answer is as simple as life was back then: people just showed up.

Before texting and instant messaging, it was completely normal to stop by a friend’s or neighbor’s house unannounced, ring the doorbell, and see if they were around. Today, with constant digital communication, that kind of spontaneity has largely faded. Sometimes, showing up without warning is now seen as rude rather than friendly. But in many ways, that shift makes sense: busier schedules and a greater need for privacy have naturally led to a more planned way of life.

7

Sending Christmas cards and holiday postcards

Long before emails, group chats, and social media, sending Christmas cards and postcards was one of the most common ways we stayed connected during the holidays.

Although the tradition began in Britain, it truly took off in the US in the 1870s, thanks in large part to German immigrant Louis Prang, whose beautifully printed Christmas cards became wildly popular across the country. By the early 20th century, mailing holiday cards had become a cherished American tradition, with families eagerly checking the mailbox throughout December. The custom is still alive today, but it is no longer as central to the holiday season as it once was. Even so, we still send an estimated 1.3 to 1.6 billion Christmas and holiday cards every year.

8

Using paper road maps

For decades, almost every car had one thing tucked inside the glove compartment: a folded paper road map. Long before GPS and smartphones, knowing how to read a map was a requirement for any traveler.

Gas stations often gave them away for free, and on family road trips, one person usually drove while another tried to follow the route and give directions, sometimes correctly, sometimes not. Getting lost, arguing over the map, and struggling to fold it back up were all part of the experience.

9

Midnight Black Friday shopping

Do you remember when people spent a night outside stores, waiting for the doors to open on Black Friday? As the shopping frenzy grew in the late 2000s, major retailers like Target, Best Buy, and Macy’s pushed their opening hours earlier and earlier, until many stores were opening right at midnight.

Shoppers bundled up in coats, stood in long lines, and rushed through the doors to grab the year’s hottest TVs, toys, and holiday gifts before they sold out. It was chaotic, exhausting, and for many, surprisingly fun. But once online shopping and home delivery became faster and easier, those midnight shopping crowds slowly began to disappear. By the 2010s, the tradition was already fading away.

10

Door-to-door caroling

A few decades ago, opening the door during Christmastime often meant being greeted by neighbors or local groups singing carols. From the late 19th into the early 20th century, caroling was a community tradition, with churches, schools, and neighborhoods organizing routes.

Over time, the tradition began to fade. As cities grew and daily life became more fast-paced, privacy and safety concerns changed how people interacted with their neighbors. Today, door-to-door caroling is much less common, though it still survives in some communities. But America still loves the music: According to the market research company "YouGov," about 75% say they listen to holiday songs or carols at home during the season.

1

Jurors are selected at random

Courts select potential jurors randomly from public records like voter registrations and driver’s license databases . This system helps ensure juries reflect a fair cross-section of the community.

Random selection has been standard practice for decades, helping prevent bias in the legal system. Federal courts began expanding source lists following the passage of the Jury Selection and Service Act of 1968 to improve diversity and representativeness.

2

You receive an official summons

If chosen, you’ll receive a jury summons by mail with instructions on when and where to report. It typically comes from a local, state, or federal court.

The summons is a legal document. Failing to respond can lead to fines or penalties , although courts often allow postponements for valid reasons like work or medical issues.

3

You must complete a qualification questionnaire

Before serving, most courts require you to fill out a questionnaire about your age, citizenship, job, and background . This helps determine eligibility.

Federal law generally requires jurors to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and able to understand English. Certain criminal convictions or hardships may disqualify you.

4

Eligible people form a jury pool

Those who qualify become part of a jury pool, also called a "venire." This group is the starting point for selecting jurors for individual trials.

The size of a jury pool varies depending on the court and case . Large trials may require dozens of potential jurors to ensure enough qualified candidates remain.

5

Jurors are called into court when needed

From the larger pool, smaller groups are summoned to courtrooms when trials are ready to begin . Not everyone in the pool will end up serving.

Some people may wait hours or even days without being assigned to a case. If not selected, they are usually dismissed after their service period ends.

6

Lawyers and judges question potential jurors

In a process called "voir dire," attorneys and judges ask questions to identify bias, conflicts, or interests . This step ensures fairness in the trial.

Questions may cover personal experiences, opinions, or knowledge about the case. The goal is to select jurors who can remain impartial and follow the law.

7

Some jurors are dismissed during selection

Potential jurors can be removed "for cause" if they show bias or hardship . Lawyers can also use a limited number of peremptory challenges.

Peremptory challenges allow attorneys to dismiss jurors without giving a reason, though they cannot be used for discrimination based on race or gender.

8

A final jury is chosen

After questioning, a final group is selected. Criminal trials usually have 12 jurors, while civil cases often use 6 to 12 , depending on the court.

Alternate jurors may also be chosen in case someone cannot continue. These alternates listen to the trial but only deliberate if needed.

9

There are different types of juries

The most common is the petit jury, which decides trial outcomes. A grand jury, by contrast, determines whether enough evidence exists to file charges.

Grand juries are typically larger, often with 16 to 23 members , and are used mainly in federal cases and some state systems.

10

Jurors listen to the evidence and testimony

During the trial, jurors hear witness testimony, examine evidence, and listen to arguments from both sides . They must follow the judge’s legal instructions.

Jurors are not allowed to research the case or discuss it outside of the courtroom. This rule ensures decisions are based only on evidence presented in the courtroom.

11

Jurors deliberate privately

After the trial ends, jurors meet in a private room to discuss the case and reach a verdict. These discussions are confidential.

In criminal cases, the verdict often must be unanimous. Deliberations can take hours or even days, depending on the complexity of the case.

12

Serving is a civic duty, required by law

Jury duty is a legal obligation and a key part of the American democracy. It allows citizens to participate in the justice system directly.

Citizens are generally summoned for jury duty every one to four years, depending on the jurisdiction, though federal court service typically requires only one appearance every two years. If you serve on a trial, you are often exempt from serving again for at least 3 years. Summoning frequency is generally determined by lists from local, state, or federal courts.

1

Vanderbilt Mansion

Image: Michael Denning

The Vanderbilt Mansion was one of several homes owned by Frederick William Vanderbilt and his wife Louise Holmes Anthony. Built between 1896 and 1899, this 54-room marvel is an excellent example of the Beaux-Arts architectural style , characterized by its grandeur and ornate detailing. In addition, the mansion's interiors are representative of the American Renaissance.

Historically known as Hyde Park, the estate includes 211 acres and is built on a hilltop overlooking the Hudson River. It includes well-groomed flowerbeds, formal gardens, woodlands, and ancillary buildings. In 1940 the Vanderbilt Mansion was designated a National Historic Landmark. Today it’s a historic house museum operated by the National Park Service.

2

Hildene Mansion

Image: sarahlawrence603

Hildene Mansion was built in 1905 by Robert Todd Lincoln, eldest son of President Abraham Lincoln. This Georgian Revival-style mansion is set on a 200-foot promontory, which offers a panoramic view of the Battenkill Valley. The name "Hildene" comes from Old English words meaning "hill" and "valley with stream".

Hildene Mansion remained in the possession of the Lincoln family until 1975. Then, in 1978, the property was acquired by a non-profit organization that restored it, preserving its historic integrity. Today this former summer home is one of Vermont's most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can wander around the large estate and contemplate its opulence: from the grand entry staircase to the original furnishings.

3

Swan House

Image: Michael Starkie

Swan House, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a historic mansion built in 1928 by Edward and Emily Inman, heirs to a cotton fortune. The mansion's eclectic design combines neo-Renaissance styles with a classical approach. The 28-acre estate features terraced gardens and a cascading fountain on the hillside. Carved or painted swans are a recurring motif throughout the house and gardens.

In 1966, the Atlanta Historical Society acquired the house and grounds. Today, Swan House is part of the Atlanta History Center and operates as a museum documenting 1920s American history. Many of the Inmans' original furniture pieces are still on display, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

4

Hearst Castle

Image: Mike Hsieh

On the west coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, there’s a magnificent mansion, a combination of a medieval castle , a Spanish cathedral , and a Roman temple. Hearst Castle is the result of the feverish dreams of one of the greatest tycoons of the 20th century: William Randolph Hearst.

Facing the Pacific Ocean, this four-building palace has 175 rooms, 40 bathrooms, and gigantic extensions of gardens. An immense semicircular outdoor swimming pool, a private zoo, tennis courts, a huge Gothic-style library, a movie theater, and an airfield are also part of this estate that took almost thirty years to build. Once visited by the most prominent Hollywood stars and politicians of the time, today Hearst Castle is registered as a National Historic Landmark and functions as a museum.

5

Ca d’Zan

Image: Tessa Edmiston

This estate located on the shores of Sarasota Bay was once the exquisite winter residence of American circus magnate John Ringling and his wife Mable. The majestic Ca' d'Zan —Venetian for "John's House"— is an incredible Mediterranean-style architectural beauty built in 1926 to resemble a palace on the Grand Canal in Venice.

The extravagant 5-story building is adorned with stained glass, stucco, and terra cotta details. It features 56 rooms, an 82-foot observation tower, and an impressive marble terrace overlooking the ocean. This residence, an icon of the Florida Boom Years of the 1920s, was restored by the state and opened to the public in 2002.

6

Old Westbury Gardens

Image: Jialin Hu

Old Westbury Gardens, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located in Nassau County on New York's Long Island peninsula. The 23-room estate was once the home of businessman John S. Phipps, his wife Margarita Grace, and their four children.

Completed in 1906 by English designer George A. Crawley, the magnificent Charles II-style mansion is set amid 160 acres of formal gardens, woodlands, ponds, and lakes. This former private estate is now a museum that can be visited from April through October. It is also regularly used for cultural events, private parties, and as a film set for Hollywood productions.

7

Oheka Castle

Image: Peter Oswald

Believed to have inspired "The Great Gatsby," Oheka Castle is the largest private home in New York and the third largest in the United States. Although now it’s a hotel, this estate was once the country home of financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn and his family. In fact, the name "Oheka" is an abbreviation derived from the first letters of his name.

The mansion, located on the North Shore of Long Island in West Hills, New York, was built between 1914 and 1919. In recent years Oheka Castle has gained popularity as a wedding venue for socialites and celebrities and was used for photo shoots , films , and television series. The castle also houses a bar and a restaurant and offers guided tours for regular visitors.

8

Lyndhurst Mansion

Image: Pixabay

Designed in 1838 by the famous American architect Alexander Jackson Davis, Lyndhurst Mansion is a remarkable example of Gothic Revival architecture. This country house is located in Tarrytown, New York, along the Hudson River, and was owned by New York Mayor William Paulding Jr, merchant George Merritt, and railroad magnate Jay Gould.

In 1961, Gould's daughter, Anna Gould, donated it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In 1966, Lyndhurst was recognized as a National Historic Landmark, a testament to its historical and architectural significance. Today, the house is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its unique features and learn about its rich history.

9

Villa Vizcaya

Image: Zoshua Colah

Between 1914 and 1923 philanthropist and conservationist James Deering built this sumptuous mansion as his winter home. Born in South Paris, Maine, Deering suffered from anemia, so his doctors recommended that he seek refuge in a sunny, warm climate. South Florida was the perfect place to recuperate. He lived in Miami until his death in 1925.

In the mid-20th century, the county took possession of the complex and its extensive Italian Renaissance gardens and began operating as a museum. Over the years Villa Vizcaya has hosted countless historic events, such as the meeting between Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II, and the first Summit of the Americas. In 1994 it was designated a National Historic Landmark and today is open to the public for tours.

10

The Biltmore Estate

Image: Stephanie Klepacki

In the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina stands a true architectural marvel: the Biltmore Estate. At more than 178,926 square feet, this legendary residence with 250 rooms, 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces is the largest privately owned house in the country . Biltmore Estate is also a monument that reflects the grandeur and luxury of the American Gilded Age.

Inspired by the landscape, George Washington Vanderbilt, grandson of industrial titan Cornelius Vanderbilt, set out to build an estate that would combine European elegance with American nature. Designed in the Châteauesque style, the mansion —which reportedly cost $5 million (equivalent to about $183 million today)— was finally inaugurated on Christmas Eve of 1895. Today, the Biltmore Estate attracts millions of visitors every year who are amazed by its architectural splendor and history.