In her most recent JrSoc post our lovely guest blogger and musicology badge guru Amy Trulock introduced us to the phenomenal site Kiddie Records Weekly. Recently I’ve spent a little more time browsing this online audio archive devoted to preserving the golden age of children’s records at at the risk of being redundant I’m compelled to feature it again. The archive was compiled between 2005 and 2007 and showcases 200+ recordings from the mid forties through the early fifties, each of which can be listened to via download or audio stream. Ranging from Bozo at the Circus to Billy on a Bike, there is a wide range of storytelling, music and instructionals (Manners Can Be Fun!) all with the charming patina of age.

“Over the years, these forgotten treasures slipped off the radar and it became our mission to give them a new lease on life by sharing them with today’s generation of online listeners. Each week throughout the year we added a new recording and before we knew it, our one year project turned into three! Although we will not be continuing beyond 2007, Kiddie Records Weekly will remain online and we will update the Bonus Records section every now and then. So whether you are hearing these records for the first time or reuniting with a childhood favorite from long ago, we hope you take great pleasure in your trip down memory lane!”

Honestly though, the reason I wanted to revisit KRW is because they have not only beautifully preserved these audio recordings, they also restored the brilliant album covers. Now for those of you that share my love of vintage children’s illustration, the graphic design and artwork on these covers will make your heart beat just a little bit faster. I have shelves of old storybooks that I glean inspiration from on a regular basis but I’ve never laid eyes these lovelies before. See a selection below and then go grab your kiddo, a couple of juice boxes and visit the site for some retro story-time.

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