America 250: 50 years ago today - March 19, 1976

Rochester Post Bulletin front page from 1976 offers a glimpse into the nation's Bicentennial year

Mar. 19, 2026 at 7:50am

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As part of a special project leading up to America's 250th anniversary in 2026, the Rochester Post Bulletin is republishing the front page from 50 years ago on March 19, 1976. The front page features headlines on topics like a Mayo Clinic study on dummy pills, inflation and food costs, and a potential postponement of President Ford's Middle East trip.

Why it matters

This daily republishing of historic front pages from 1976 provides a unique window into the local and national events, issues, and community life during the nation's Bicentennial year, offering readers a chance to revisit that pivotal moment in American history.

The details

The March 19, 1976 front page of the Rochester Post Bulletin includes stories on a Mayo Clinic study finding that dummy pills can provide relief, inflation reaching a 4-year low with food costs decreasing, a potential postponement of President Ford's Middle East trip, the House approving a bridge bond bill, Republican governors asking Reagan to end his campaign, and jurors complaining about homesickness in the Patty Hearst trial. The paper also includes a bulletin about a state income tax rebate plan and a photo caption about city residents enjoying a winter hike.

  • The front page is from Friday, March 19, 1976.

The players

Mayo Clinic

A nonprofit organization committed to clinical practice, education and research, providing expert, whole-person care to patients from around the world.

President Gerald Ford

The 38th President of the United States, who was in office from 1974 to 1977.

Ronald Reagan

The 40th President of the United States, who was running for the Republican nomination in 1976.

Patty Hearst

An American newspaper heiress who was kidnapped by and later joined the Symbionese Liberation Army, a left-wing terrorist group, in 1974.

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The takeaway

This historic front page from 1976 provides a fascinating glimpse into the local and national events, issues, and community life during America's Bicentennial year, offering readers a unique opportunity to revisit that pivotal moment in history as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026.