The birthplace of the postcard probably was in Austria, and Victorians were the most enthusiastic postcard writers. They loved this new novelty and soon made collections. What fun to find one of these old albums in an attic or antique shop. Take time to look at the pictures and enjoy the scenes and the written messages. You can learn much about the senders and the times.
When photography became a household experience, stationery manufacturers made photograph postcards — first in black and white and later in color. There were photos of people, famous resorts, soldiers, actors, statesmen, etc.
March 1, 1907 was an important date for commercial photographers in the United States because a change in postal regulations allowed a written message to be placed on the back of a picture postcard. Up until 1907, the back of the card was used only for the name and address. Messages had to be written in the margin or over the picture. Postage was one cent. Many cards were printed in black and white, then hand-colored.
Collecting picture postcards won’t make one rich, but their history is invaluable.
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