Howdy Doody - Kelloggs Corn Flakes mask (1950s) - backside

Straight from the golden age of children’s television and cereal-box premiums, this original Howdy Doody paper mask was printed on the back of a Kellogg’s Corn Flakes box in the early 1950s.

“Howdy Doody” wasn’t just a character—he was a cultural phenomenon. The puppet star of NBC’s “Howdy Doody Show” (1947–1960) became one of America’s first true children’s television icons, influencing everything from advertising to toy merchandising. At the height of his fame, Howdy’s freckle-faced grin was everywhere—from lunchboxes to cereal aisles.

Kellogg’s cleverly capitalized on this craze by printing collectible masks of Howdy and other characters directly on their Corn Flakes boxes. Kids would cut along the dotted lines, punch the holes, and tie with string—bringing the world of TV right into their living rooms. Most were worn, torn, and discarded, making intact survivors like this one especially scarce.

Historical Significance:

Date: Early 1950s

Origin: Back panel of a Kellogg’s Corn Flakes 12 oz. cereal box

Cultural Note: Howdy Doody was one of the first licensed television characters tied to breakfast cereal promotions.

Details:

Character: Howdy Doody
Brand: Kellogg’s Corn Flakes
Date: 1950s
Size: approx. 8" x 12"