America 250: 50 years ago today - March 20, 1976

A look back at the front page of the Rochester Post Bulletin from 50 years ago

Mar. 20, 2026 at 7:50am

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The Rochester Post Bulletin is republishing the front page from 50 years ago on March 20, 1976 as part of a special project leading up to America's 250th anniversary in 2026. The front page features headlines about the 1976 presidential election, the Patty Hearst trial, and other news from that time period.

Why it matters

This project offers a unique opportunity for readers to revisit local and national news from 1976, the year of America's Bicentennial celebration. By republishing the historic front pages, the Post Bulletin is providing a window into the past and allowing readers to experience the events and issues that were shaping the country during that pivotal year.

The details

The front page of the Rochester Post Bulletin from March 20, 1976 includes several notable headlines, including "Carter Sees N.C. Win — Ford: Don't Care If Reagan Drops Bid" about the 1976 presidential election, "Jury Weighs Hearst Fate" regarding the trial of Patty Hearst, and "Bankrupt New Town To Be Sold" about a struggling real estate development. The page also features photo captions and other news briefs from that time.

  • The front page is from March 20, 1976, 50 years ago.
  • The Post Bulletin is republishing historic front pages daily leading up to America's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.

The players

Rochester Post Bulletin

A local newspaper serving the Rochester, Minnesota area that is republishing its historic front pages from 1976 as part of a special project leading up to America's 250th anniversary.

Jimmy Carter

The Democratic candidate for president in 1976 who is mentioned in one of the headlines on the front page.

Gerald Ford

The Republican incumbent president in 1976 who is mentioned in one of the headlines on the front page.

Patty Hearst

The heiress who was on trial in 1976 for her involvement with the Symbionese Liberation Army, as referenced in the "Jury Weighs Hearst Fate" headline.

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What’s next

The Post Bulletin will continue republishing historic front pages from 1976 on a daily basis leading up to America's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.

The takeaway

This project provides a fascinating glimpse into the local and national news that was shaping the country during America's Bicentennial year of 1976, offering readers a unique opportunity to revisit that pivotal moment in history.