5 Surprising Things That Will Turn 100 in 2024

As we gear up to bid farewell to 2023, we’re on the brink of witnessing some fascinating centennials in the coming year. Imagine objects, creations, or cultural phenomena that have silently marked their presence for a century, and 2024 is their grand centennial celebration.

In this blog, we’re unveiling five surprising things that will hit the remarkable milestone of turning 100 in the upcoming year. Get ready to embark on a journey through time as we explore the unexpected and often overlooked centenarians of 2024!

Spiralbound Notebooks

The humble spiralbound notebook, a ubiquitous companion in classrooms, offices, and creative spaces, has a rich and fascinating history that spans a century. The inception of the spiralbound design can be traced back to the early 20th century, a time when traditional notebooks were evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.

In the 1920s, an innovative leap was made in the world of stationery when the spiralbinding technique was introduced. This revolutionary design featured a metal or plastic coil that elegantly wound through the pages, providing not only a secure and durable binding but also allowing the notebook to lay flat—a convenience appreciated by writers, students, and professionals alike.

Wheaties

Born in 1924, Wheaties emerged as a pioneering product in the realm of breakfast cereals. Created by Washburn Crosby Company, the precursor to General Mills, Wheaties earned its nickname, the “Breakfast of Champions,” due to its strategic marketing approach.

Wheaties gained national attention in the 1930s when the brand pioneered the use of athlete endorsements, featuring prominent sports figures on its iconic orange box. The first athlete to grace the Wheaties box was baseball legend Lou Gehrig, setting the stage for a tradition that would endure for decades. This innovative marketing strategy not only propelled Wheaties to the forefront of the cereal market but also turned the orange box into a symbol of athletic excellence.

Dum Dums Lollipops

The story of Dum Dums begins in 1924 when Akron Candy Company, later renamed Spangler Candy Company, introduced these whimsically named lollipops to the world.

Originally crafted as a simple and affordable sweet treat during the Great Depression, Dum Dums quickly won the hearts of candy enthusiasts with their distinct round shape and an array of delightful flavors. The name “Dum Dums” was chosen to convey the idea that these lollipops were easy for even the youngest candy lovers to pronounce.

As time marched on, Dum Dums continued to evolve, introducing a captivating assortment of flavors that kept fans coming back for more. The famous Mystery Flavor, a result of the flavor switch during production, added an element of surprise and became a cherished aspect of the Dum Dums experience.

Kleenex

Introduced by Kimberly-Clark in 1924, Kleenex was initially marketed as a disposable, sanitary alternative to the traditional cold cream towel. The idea of a convenient and disposable facial tissue gained traction, and by 1930, Kleenex had transitioned from a makeup remover to the facial tissue we know today.

During World War II, Kleenex gained further popularity as it found its way into soldiers’ pockets, providing a convenient solution for personal hygiene in challenging circumstances. The post-war era saw an expansion of the brand into various styles and designs, adapting to the evolving needs and preferences of consumers.

Kleenex became synonymous with comfort, care, and hygiene, evolving beyond a mere tissue to a symbol of solace and support. The introduction of lotion-infused tissues and specialty varieties further solidified Kleenex as a go-to choice for a gentle touch.

Marlboro Cigarettes

Originally introduced in 1924 as a women’s cigarette with a red tip to hide lipstick stains, Marlboro underwent a dramatic transformation in the mid-20th century.

In the early 1950s, amidst growing health concerns linked to smoking, Marlboro took a bold step to rebrand itself. The introduction of the “Marlboro Man” campaign in 1955, featuring rugged cowboys in wide-open landscapes, marked a pivotal moment. This imagery, rugged and free-spirited, transformed Marlboro from a filtered cigarette aimed at women to a symbol of masculinity and adventure.

The campaign’s success propelled Marlboro into the forefront of the tobacco industry, making it one of the best-selling cigarette brands globally. The Marlboro Man became an enduring cultural icon, representing a certain rugged individualism, despite the controversies surrounding tobacco use.