My Christmas Wish 1916 Christmas Postcard Vintage US Greeting

My Christmas Wish 1916 Vintage Christmas Postcard

Welcome to a true piece of holiday history with this exceptional 1916 Christmas postcard featuring the charming design known as My Christmas Wish. This postcard stands out as a classic example of early 20th century American holiday ephemera, printed with care and sent with personal warmth across Pennsylvania.

The front of the card showcases a delightful illustration of a young child bundled in a bright yellow coat and vibrant red hood, complete with matching red mittens. The child is actively pulling a large branch of glossy green holly adorned with bright red berries, evoking the festive spirit of the season. Above this scene, the elegant script reads 'My Christmas Wish.' Below, the poem adds to the sentiment: 'Here's to joy, in brimming measure To fill your Christmas up with pleasure.' This combination of whimsical art and poetic verse made such cards popular for conveying holiday cheer in an era before widespread telephone use.

Turning to the reverse side reveals the personal touch that makes this item so special. The card bears a one-cent green Washington postage stamp and a clear postmark from Lehighton, Pennsylvania, dated December 8, 1916. It was addressed to Edna Beishline in care of Charley Beishline on Rural Free Delivery in Conyngham, Pennsylvania. The handwritten message from a Mrs. Heller is both humorous and heartwarming, explaining that she had to write a few lines so that Edna could read her jokes and the rest of the family could see the invitation for a sleigh ride, noting that they have none, before wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

This postcard represents the brand of holiday cheer that defined American Christmas celebrations in the 1910s. While it lacks a specific commercial brand name like some manufactured goods, the 'My Christmas Wish' design was part of a popular series of illustrated cards that captured the imagination of the public. The quality of the printing and the choice of colors demonstrate the high standards of postcard production during that period, making it a standout model in any collection of vintage holiday items.

In terms of condition, this 1916 postcard is in very good vintage condition. It exhibits only minor age-related discoloration and light stains on the back, along with light creases from its journey through the mail and gentle edge wear consistent with over a century of age. Importantly, there are no tears, holes, or missing pieces, and both the printed illustration and the handwritten text remain sharp and fully legible. The stamp is intact, and the postmark is clear enough to read the date and location without difficulty.

Collectors and enthusiasts of early American postcards will appreciate the authenticity and the story embedded in this piece. The personal message provides a glimpse into rural Pennsylvania life in 1916, a time when sleigh rides were a common winter activity and handwritten notes were the primary way to stay connected during the holidays. The card's journey from Lehighton to Conyngham, both in the Keystone State, adds a layer of local historical interest that elevates it beyond generic holiday greetings.

Whether you are building a collection of Pennsylvania ephemera or simply love the nostalgia of old-fashioned Christmas cards, this My Christmas Wish postcard offers a unique window into the past. Its cheerful illustration and playful message continue to bring joy more than 100 years after it was mailed, proving that some wishes are timeless.

The materials used are high-quality cardstock typical of the era, with vibrant inks that have held up remarkably well despite the passage of time. The illustration style is characteristic of early 20th century commercial art, with bold colors and charming character design that appeals to both children and adults alike. This is not a modern reprint but an original artifact from the year 1916, when the world was in the midst of World War I, yet Americans still found ways to celebrate the season with hope and humor.

Adding this postcard to your collection means owning a piece of living history that has survived two world wars, the Great Depression, and the rise of digital communication. It serves as a reminder of simpler times when a single card could convey laughter, invitation, and warm wishes to an entire family. The humor in Mrs. Heller's message, with its playful grammar and invitation for a sleigh ride 'we have none,' shows the lighthearted spirit that helped people through challenging times.

For those who appreciate the art of postcard collecting, this item checks all the boxes: clear postmark, legible message, attractive illustration, and a personal story. It is the kind of find that makes the hunt worthwhile and provides endless enjoyment whether displayed in an album, framed on a wall, or shared with fellow collectors at gatherings. The My Christmas Wish design captures the essence of what made these cards so beloved - they were not just mail, but small works of art carrying personal connections.

In conclusion, this 1916 Christmas postcard is more than paper; it is a testament to the enduring power of holiday traditions and personal communication. Its brand of joy, embodied in the title My Christmas Wish, continues to resonate today, making it a must-have for anyone who values the history and charm of vintage American holidays.

 _gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))

Item specifics

Used - Very good — Well-preserved 1916 postcard with fully legible handwriting, clear postmark, and vibrant illustration. Shows honest age wear including light stains, creases, and paper toning but remains sturdy with no tears or major damage. — Defects: ['Minor age-related stains and discoloration on front and back', 'Light creases and edge wear typical of its 110-year age', 'Slight fading to postmark and ink but all text remains fully readable']

Ships from the United States with tracking.