This splendid ad from July 27, 1934, Lancaster Eagle-Gazette contains several historical nuggets. Nugget 1 is that milk was still delivered by horse-drawn wagons in 1934. Nugget 2 is the fact that without the pneumatic automobile tires (and presumably rubber-cushioned shoes for the poor horse) early-morning milk wagons made enough noise to awaken the dead.
I assume that ‘hubby’ refers to the stereotypical husband endeavoring to sneak silently into the house after an illicit night on the town (in Lancaster?) And yes, un-cushioned milk bottles did indeed have a distinctive clatter.
I hope this Oldsmobile ad from July 28, 1934, Lancaster Eagle-Gazette reproduces well, because the fine print reveals that the ’34 Olds had some features that we appreciate today. We’re still using hydraulic brakes, shock absorbers, pressure-lubed engines, and synchromesh. The fine print also reveals that $650 doesn’t include the bumpers, that cool rear-mounted spare tire, or something called ‘rear spring covers,’ all available at extra cost. Radio and heater wouldn’t be standard equipment for another 20 years, but it’s a splendid vehicle all the same.