The Mid Century Vault

Currently Playing: 066 Spencer’s Gifts: The Mall’s Wild Child

Step back to 1974. While your parents were browsing Sears, you were heading straight for the blacklight glow and the smell of incense. In this video, Philip Mershon revisits the "forbidden" corner of the American mall: Spencer’s Gifts. From the first Lava Lamps and trippy blacklight posters to the "Back Corner" items that made parents nervous, we explore how Spencer’s became the ultimate rite of passage for suburban kids. We’re diving into the history of the "Rebel Kit"—from its 1947 mail-order origins (where you could literally buy a live burro!) to its evolution into the mall’s wild child. In this episode, we cover: The origin of the Spencer’s catalog in 1947. How Spencer’s popularized the Lava Lite and fiber optic lamps. The "Gag Gift" wall: Whoopie cushions, hand buzzers, and more. The secret connection between Spencer’s and Spirit Halloween. Join the Conversation: Did you ever buy something at Spencer’s that you had to hide from your parents? Tell us your best mall stories in the comments! And please like this video and subscribe there's more Mid Century fun on the way! #Spencer’sGiftshistory #70smallnostalgia #1970spopculture #LavaLamphistory #Blacklightposters #mallculture