Postcards capture a moment in time. They connect us to other people, places, times, and events. Both modern and vintage postcards follow similar styles.
courtesy of www.joycetice.com/postcard/pancana.htm
The first postcard was copyrighted in the United States in 1861. The initial postcard was a mailed card simply treated as a letter. Different versions followed before the turn of the century.
The United States government issued an official Postal Card in 1873. This card featured space for an address on the front. A message could be written on the back of the card.
Exposition Cards burst on the scene in 1893. Exposition cards celebrated the Chicago Columbian Exposition. The Businessman’s Card was embraced by advertisers.
Postal restrictions were soon removed from Private Mailing Cards. The first Photo Postcard was sent through U.S. mail in 1899. The foundation was now laid for today’s modern postcard.
Divided back postcards became the rage by 1907. The address and message could now be placed on the same side. By 1928 many publishers were producing cards with a distinctive white border.
The quality of postcards continued to climb throughout the twentieth century. In 1931 Curtis Teich produced the first postcard on linen textured stock. Cards could now be printed with bright inks on high speed presses.
Photochrome Cards came into fashion in 1939. These cards were based on Kodachrome – the first color film. Color separations now had endless possibilities!
By 1984 postcards even had their own official week. National Postcard Week is celebrated during the first week of May. And postcards truly deserve that recognition!
Postcards have now come full circle. E postcards have been gaining popularity since the 1990’s. Yet the traditional postcard still has its place and its loyal fans.
The postcard has proved its power of endurance. Its beauty is beyond dispute. So why not send a postcard today!
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