Figure 1.--The language of the greeting on the front of early 20th century post cards is a very poor indicator as to the nationality of the card. France had an especially large postcard industry and their cards were sold throughout Europe.

The language of the greeting on the front of early 20th century post cards is a very poor indicator as to the nationality of the card. France had an especially large postcard industry and their cards were sold throughout Europe. In fact the the term "French postcard" entered the English language--although the meaning was a post card with a racey scene. For some reason French post cards were not widely sold in America where English and German cards were more common before World War I. French companies printed large numbers of card and then had varying amounts stamped in different foreign languages. We note quite a number stamped in Dutch, suggesting that French companies developed a strong market in the Netherlands. This was, however, done in quite a number of languages. Of course companies in other countries did the same thing, but we note more French cards with foreign greetings than cards from any other countries. The nationality of the card can be determined by finding the name of the company which produced it, often indicated on the front. The name of the card here ls " Bleuet ". This was a French company, but they also sold many cards in Belgium and the Netherlands. The greeting is in Dutch and means, "Hartelijk gefeliciteerd = Warmest congratulations/Sincere best wishes". There is also often information on the back of these cards with details there are useful in identifying nationality. This includes where it was printed and if postally used where it was mailed and sent to.

Navigate the Boys' Historical Clothing Web Site:
[Sailor suits] [Sailor hats] [Buster Brown suits]
[Eton suits] [Rompers] [Tunics] [Smocks] [Pinafores]

Created: December 27, 2003
Last updated: December 28, 2003