Letters to the Children of the Future

In the spring of 1975, members of Girl Scout Troop 120 created a special project titled “Letters to the Children of the Future” in anticipation of the United States Bicentennial. The letters were submitted to the City of Cerritos and archived by the City Clerk’s Office. The girls, who lived in Cerritos and Artesia, wrote about their daily lives—sharing stories of family and friends, popular fashions, favorite foods, beloved pets, and memorable camping trips. They also reflected on their homes and the television shows they enjoyed, including “Adam-12,” “Happy Days,” and “The Waltons.” Many of the letters were accompanied by photographs of loved ones and drawings of their homes.

These heartfelt letters provide a charming glimpse into life in 1975. One Girl Scout, Jackie W., wrote about living on Gridley Road, noting, “I live across the street from a big horse farm. There are lots of dairies around where I live that are moving to make room for new houses.” Together, the letters, photographs, and drawings capture a moment of transition in the community. They are presented for all to enjoy in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the City of Cerritos and the 250th anniversary of the United States.