7up and Grapette Crosswalk Markers – 1950s Published September 7, 2011, 10:17 pm at 700 × 525 in “What the Aitch?” Thursday – The reason we’re a teensy bit afraid of dentists? In the mid-1900s, pedestrian and school crossings were often marked using these brass plates to show the way. And they doubled as a handy advertising opportunity for yummy soda pop!