I first read the entire LOTR books (4 volumes, including The Hobbit) when they were still "underground" and not available in bookstores. I found mine in an office supply store. I think that was in 1970. I have made it a point to read them every year since. Usually around this time of year...Good triumphs over Evil and all that. My kids were lucky...The were 10 and 13 when I gave them the books...
I encountered The Hobbit about 1963, I think, when I was home with the mumps. Went through the rest soon after, so when they became "mainstream" I was way ahead of the game.