Postcard to Mother in Vermont Discussing Travel and Work Conditions

Letter

-

The Recorded Image Project

Name/Title

Postcard to Mother in Vermont Discussing Travel and Work Conditions

Entry/Object ID

RE-LE-1890-0051

Description

A handwritten postcard addressed to “Mother” in Vermont, discussing receipt of a prior letter, travel conditions, and observations about work and people, sent from Wisconsin in July.

Subject

Family correspondence and travel/work updates

Subject Place

State/Province

Wisconsin

Category

Travel Correspondence

Letter Details

Letter Date

1890 - 1899

Transcription

Transcription

Dear Mother, Did you get my letter? I mailed it and perhaps you did not get it. Have you heard from them? How are you getting on this hot weather? I got in the shade on one place — which we might have called home. John had good fishing. People here are getting out of town rapidly — with bugs & fleas. [Top margin note:] Wood — P.M. — now wearing warm clothes.

Language

English

Notes

Received July 2 Mrs. Louie F. Dearborn Underhill, Vt. Handwriting Style / Script Type Late Victorian cursive, informal Spencerian-derived hand — quick, practical writing typical of postcard correspondence, with lighter structure and occasional abbreviation Document Material Commercial U.S. Government postal card (1-cent Jefferson issue) printed on stiff wove cardstock — pre-printed “United States Postal Card” design with engraved portrait and postal instructions

Ethnography

Notes

This postcard reflects the increasing use of inexpensive postal cards in the late 19th century for quick, informal communication. It captures the mobility of Americans during this period, with references to travel, temporary lodging, and seasonal movement. Mentions of heat, insects, and outdoor conditions highlight the realities of summer travel before modern conveniences. The tone is brief and practical, illustrating how postcards supplemented longer letters in maintaining family contact.

General Notes

Note Type

Historical Note

Note

The card features a 1-cent Jefferson postal card, widely used in the United States from the 1870s onward, making this likely from the late 19th century. The postal marking from Wisconsin and receipt notation in Vermont demonstrate the efficiency of the U.S. postal system during this period. Postcards became a popular medium for short-distance and quick updates due to their low cost and convenience.

Create Date

March 17, 2026