As I entered an antique shop off the interstate last week, the owner was just beginning to sort an enormous consignment of souvenir postcards. Of course, I was curious. An hour and a half later, I had about a quarter of his stash in my possession.
The majority of the cards in this batch are from what is known as the Linen Card Era from about 1930-1945, when publishers used linen paper stock with a high rag content. Colorful dyes and bold graphics distinguish these cards. This is from a time when highways were being impoved and travel by automobile was popular. Building of the Pennsylvania Turnpike began in the late 1930's and the person who collected these cards obviously traveled along it. There are 5 folio sets of the turnpike. Also lots of New York, Atlantic City, Florida, Cleveland, Philly, amusement parks, Cedar Point, little guest cottages and motels.
Over 400 cards in all...
Another day of my trip took me off the beaten path. As I was driving down a country road, I took a right turn to check out the town of MARK. Not sure why I stopped... guess I was just amused to think of all the guys named Mark who might live there. And to see whether I should tell my brother Mark that he should go check it out...
Less than an hour from where I grew up, I didn't know it existed.
Actually a neat little town with 3 places to eat and a nice park.
just down the road, you could buy this...
or this...
I didn't need either. But if you know anyone who needs a steel mill, this one is north of Peoria.
So we kept driving - glad that mom has a Garmin (that she named Lucille) so we could find our way back to the main road and the antique shops!
Hope your summer is taking you down some interesting paths.
Mary