Print and Drawing Cabinet: Lyle Rouse Vintage Postcard Collection
Postcards emerged in the mid-19th century as an affordable, convenient way to send messages, gaining popularity alongside expanding postal systems and travel culture. Over time, they became both souvenirs and snapshots of places and moments, often featuring images of landmarks or local scenes. What makes postcards especially meaningful is the handwritten note on the back. These short, personal messages add a glimpse of history and personality, turning a simple card into a lasting keepsake that captures a human connection across distance.
Explore The Lyle Rouse Vintage Postcard Collection
Artist Unknown, Health Happiness, postcard, 2005.287.78.
Artist Unknown, Health Happiness (back), postcard, 2005.287.78.
Artist Unknown, When it Comes to 'Making Hay' Wisconsin Beats the World, postcard, 2005.287.8.
Resources in the Collection
Real Photo Postcards
Header Images
Left
Artist Unknown, Steamship 'City of South Haven,' postcard, 1911, 2005.287.227.
Artist Unknown, A Merry Christmas, postcard, 2005.287.195.
Artist Unknown, A Hershey Herd in Clover, postcard, 1910, 2005.287.207.
Center
Artist Unknown, Easter Greetings (back), postcard, 1913, 2005.287.166.
Artist Unknown, Easter Greetings, postcard, 1913, 2005.287.166.
Artist Unknown, Be Gentle and Kind, postcard, 1909, 2005.287.117.
Right
Artist Unknown, Main Writing Room, postcard, 2005.287.201.
Artist Unknown, A Merry Christmas, postcard, 1913, 2005.287.169.
Artist Unknown, Under American Falls, postcard, 2005.287.238.