I started my flying instruction in January 1968. I joined a flying club called the "Flying Fire Fighters" run under San Jose State University in San Jose. I don't remember how many members we had but we had four airplanes. Our planes were hangerred at the San Jose airport.
The Cessna 150 cost $6.50 an hour to fly wet (includes fuel, etc.). I hired a flight instructor for $7.00 per hour. I solo'ed in 9+ hours and my license in under 50 hours.