Please register in advance before your visit. Register for timed tickets
by Molly Donnermeyer
2/16/2016
Mary R. Schiff Library and Archives , library , archives , Molly Donnermeyer , vintage , works on paper
Vintage Valentines
Roses are red
Violets are blue
Visit the CAM Library
Peep some valentines on view
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, a selection of vintage cards are currently on display in the Mary R. Schiff Library and Archives. These particular examples of love notes are mostly from the late 19th and early 20th Centuries.
Before printing techniques made paper cards more readily available often valentines were handmade by one’s beloved. Ornate embossing techniques, the presence of cupids, and silk fringe characterize the earlier examples. Bright colors, glitter, and the appearance of puppies, children, and flowers adorn some of the later cards from the 1920 and 1930s. Additionally humorous poetry often appeared alongside the images. One of the cards on display features this little poem:
“I liked this little card
so much
I rather thought you’d
Like it too
It’s such fun sending
Valentines
To someone awful
Nice –like you.”
Visit the Library with your valentine and be inspired to make your own keepsake cards to show your love.
Thursday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursday, 11 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
By appointment only