History of postcards

From a Novelty to a Collectible

In today’s digital world, postcards have evolved from a simple method of communication into a charming gesture and a unique way to surprise someone. To appreciate their role and development, let’s dive into the intriguing history of postcards.

The Birth of the Postcard

The story of postcards begins with Theodore Hook, a writer who hand-drew the earliest known picture postcard in 1840. Hook sent this card to himself from Fulham as a playful prank on the postal service. The postcard, which featured a caricature of post office staff, was sold for a record £31,750 in 2002.

Early Concepts and Adoption

Dr. Heinrich von Stephan introduced the modern postcard concept in Prussia in 1865. Although his idea faced initial resistance, Austria-Hungary mailed the first postcards four years later. During the Franco-Prussian War, soldiers used these cards to send messages home. They utilized one side for the address and the other for the message.

In 1867, two German booksellers proposed universal postcards to simplify correspondence and lower mailing costs. They envisioned using one side for the address and stamp, while the other would display frequently used phrases. Despite their proposal, postal authorities did not support the initiative.

Global Spread and Innovation

Between 1870 and 1874, many countries began issuing postcards. The first Congress of the General Postal Union in Bern in October 1874 made international postcard dispatch possible.

France produced the first famous printed picture postcard in 1870 at Camp Conley. Léon Benardot created it, featuring a lithographed drawing of arms and the coat of arms of the Duchy of Brittany. Meanwhile, in Germany, August Schwarz of Oldenburg designed the first illustrated postcard. He sent it on July 16, 1870, showing a man with a cannon, marking the start of the Franco-Prussian War.

The Golden Age of Postcards

The 1880s marked a significant rise in illustrated postcards, a period known as the “Golden Age” in Europe. In the United States, this era began later, around 1905 to 1915. During this time, postcard demand soared, and government restrictions on production eased. Billions of postcards were sent, making this a prolific period in postcard history.

Postcards in Russia

In Russia, the first unmarked postcard, called the “Open Letter,” appeared in 1872. People welcomed this innovation, leading to the introduction of labeled postcards. The first illustrated postcards in Russia emerged in 1894 when the postal department approved mailing illustrated cards from private publishers.

Postcards in the Modern Era

After World War II, postcard production continued but changed in format. As telephone communication grew, postcard demand declined. Publishers shifted focus to picturesque landscapes, humor, and fashion. The Photochrom postcard era began in 1939 and became popular around 1950. These glossy, colorful cards served as precursors to the postcards we use today.

Conclusion

Although fewer postcards are mailed now, many have become valuable collectibles. The transformation of postcards from a simple communication tool to a beloved collectible highlights their enduring appeal and historical significance.