When my DH bought me my first road bike as an adult (hadn't had one since high school), a helmet was the first accessory I bought. It was SUPER heavy and had only a couple of tiny vents. I think it was a Bell Tourlite (but it was NOT light!!) My DH was a road cyclist and wore a helmet, so I never even considered riding without one, especially since I hadn't ridden a bike in years before that and was sure I'd fall (and I did!) This was in 1986 or 1987.
Helmets have come a long way, baby! 
Emily
Emily
2011 Jamis Dakar XC "Toto" - Selle Italia Ldy Gel Flow
2007 Trek Pilot 5.0 WSD "Gloria" - Selle Italia Diva Gel Flow
2004 Bike Friday Petite Pocket Crusoe - Selle Italia Diva Gel Flow