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Valentine’s Day Postcards

Published: February 11, 2020

The price of a stamp to mail a postcard in the early 1900s was just one penny. 

To a very particular friend, from one who is very particular in the choice of friends. Valentine's Greetings.

Postcard sent from Morgantown. WV, February 14, 1913

Postcard: With Love's Greeting

Postcard sent from Annapolis, MD, February 12, 1909

These Valentine's Day postcards, part of a collection sent from around the region to Miss Irene Andris, have postmarks ranging from 1906 through 1913. Some include personal messages, but many are simply addressed to the recipient.

Irene Andris was the grandmother of a Library employee, who donated the collection to the Center for Local History.

By Telephone or Wireless, Whatever be the Line, Just tell me that you love me and I'm your valentine

Postcard sent from Morgantown. WV, date stamp illegible.

I know a lot of girls it's true but only one I love - that's you. For my dear love.

Postcard sent from Morgantown. WV, February 14, 10 a.m., no year.

The Center for Local History has a large collection of holiday-themed postcards from the early-to-mid 20th Century. There are also postcards for birthdays, New Year’s, Christmas, Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, and the Fourth of July. 

The first American postcard was pressed in 1873. Postcards quickly became an inexpensive form of communication, growing in popularity throughout the 19th and 20th Centuries. The study and collection of postcards, which you've just learned a little bit about by reading this, is called Deltiology.

To see more of the postcard collection, or to learn more about Arlington's history, visit the Center for Local History on the first floor of the Central Library.

Do you have a question about this story, or a personal experience to share? 

Use this form to send a message to the Center for Local History.

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February 11, 2020 by Web Editor Filed Under: App, Center for Local History, News, Throwback Thursday

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1015 North Quincy Street
Arlington VA 22201
703-228-5990

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