This holiday tradition has somehow survived extinction in the digital age. Who would think they were making history by sending a personalized card? However, here is one wishing the recipient a “Merry Christmas.”
It is a painted image showing a young child on a stick horse carrying a horn beside a tree with real lighted candles. He’s looking at old Father Christmas in a blue coat carrying sticks, which traditionally bring good fortune. The Victorian man is symbolic of warmth and good will reflecting the era’s focus on the charitable and spiritual aspects of the holiday season.
The cost of postage was 1 cent in 1909. Today, Americans send more than a billion holiday cards despite the cost. It is a valued human touch that connects families, colleagues and friends that no text message can match.
This postcard was sent to Mr. and Mrs. J.L. Williamson at Route 1, Buchanan, by Perry. There is a collection of nostalgic cards and presents on exhibit in the Botetourt Museum of History & Culture in Fincastle.
~ Botetourt County Museum of History and Culture
