A Look Back At

Born in 1962

What Was Life Like in 1962?

Who Was in Charge?

Taoiseach

Seán Lemass

What Things Cost

Petrol (per litre)

2s 8d/gal

Loaf of Bread

8½d

Average House

£2,600

Weekly Wage

£6

Top Film

Lawrence of Arabia

What Was Life Really Like?

The Irish Charts began, and the first number one was 'The Young Ones' by Cliff Richard. The showband era was in full swing — Brendan Bowyer and the Royal Showband were filling ballrooms across the country. Young people danced, romanced, and emigrated in roughly equal measure.

The Cuban Missile Crisis gripped the world; Ireland was neutral but not immune to anxiety. The country was cautiously modernising, with Lemass pushing trade agreements and attracting investment.

Popular Toys & Games

  • Easy-Bake Oven
  • Troll Dolls
  • Spirograph

Irish Chart Song in 1962

Stranger on the Shore

Mr. Acker Bilk

Irish #1 in 1962