There are few things more American than the pickup truck. America's three biggest auto makers all made their mark with the pickup, and we've turned trucks into both status symbols and proxies for masculinity.
Back in the 1970s pickups were simple, elegant, and aggressively functional, a long shot from the hulking pavement princesses of today. Back then, a pickup driver was actually cool.
Here are 20 photos of what driving one looked like in the 1970s.
1
Steve McQueen
With his Ford Pickup, 1978.
2
Chevy Light Trucks
Personal and practical, 1972.
3
Camping in the ‘70s
Trailer on the bed.
4
Kids in the Bed
Fully loaded.
5
“My Father”
“Posing with his first new vehicles in his 40s, 1979.”
6
GMC
Outdoor trucks, 1978.
7
1979 Stepside
A Chevy for the family.
8
Snow Fun
Pulling passengers in the 1970s.
9
Extra Long Bed
Perfect for holding the whole family.
10
Steve McQueen
Montana, 1978.
11
“My Dad”
“Falling in love with a 1979 Carryall in Mexico.”
12
Ford Trucks
An ad in 1977.
13
USAF 106th Pararescue
Based out of Westhampton Beach, NY. In a truck, 1976-1977.
14
K5 Blazer
“Dad in the late ‘70s.”
15
Chevy Pickup
An ad touting reliability, 1970.
16
“My Dad and His Brothers”
Repairing their truck on the side of the road.
17
Marilee Chandler
Having a laugh in Toledo, Washington, with an old truck. 1970s.
18
Pickup Frame
“My dad’s tow truck from the early ‘70s.”
19
“Grandpa Joe”
A real cowboy in the 1970s.
20
Ford Pickups
Picturesque in 1977.
