Gosla Antiques & Collectibles

Home › The Catalogue › Postcards

Postcards

Two of Us 1914 Cat Postcard Vintage Pennsylvania Mailed Message

$15.00
In stock · No. 178213599920

Secure checkout · ships from the United States with tracking

Two of Us 1914 Cat Postcard - The Signature Vintage Pennsylvania Treasure

At the heart of this exceptional offering is the beloved 'Two of Us' series, a charming line of early 20th century illustrated postcards that captured the hearts of Americans during the golden age of postcard collecting. This particular 1914 example stands out as a pristine representative of the series, featuring two delightful kittens emerging from a dramatically broken ornate ceramic vessel. The tabby cat with its striking stripes and jaunty green ribbon bow takes center stage, while the pure white kitten peeks curiously from the shadows of the shattered pottery. This design, marked with the printer's code 029-6 in the corner, exemplifies the playful yet detailed artwork that made 'Two of Us' a favorite among collectors even then.

The front illustration is rendered in vibrant colors typical of the era's chromolithography process, bringing the cats to life with realistic fur textures and expressive eyes that seem to follow you. The broken vase adds a touch of whimsical drama, suggesting these mischievous felines have just caused a bit of household chaos. It's the kind of endearing scene that would have brought a smile to any recipient in 1914, and it continues to do so today for anyone who appreciates vintage animal art.

Turning to the reverse, you encounter the authentic human story that elevates this postcard far beyond a simple picture. Written in elegant cursive script, the message from Cousin Hattie reveals a personal moment frozen in time. She apologizes for not visiting, explaining she has been sick most of the time since arriving and is not able to ride so far. The family plans to head to Mahanoy that night and home the next day, but she promises to come down to see the recipient when she gets stronger. Addressed to Mrs. Charley Bishaline in Conyngham, Pennsylvania, and postmarked September 16, 1914, at 6 PM from a Pennsylvania location, this card carries the genuine warmth of early 20th century family correspondence.

Condition is very good for its advanced age of over 111 years. The paper remains sturdy with no tears, rips, or missing pieces. The front illustration retains its bright colors with only minor fading consistent with age. On the reverse, there are light brown age spots and staining typical of old paper, along with some light creasing from handling and mailing. The one-cent U.S. postage stamp featuring George Washington is intact with a clear circular postmark cancellation. The handwritten message is completely legible, preserving every word of Hattie's thoughtful note. Dimensions are the standard postcard size of approximately 5.5 inches by 3.5 inches, printed on heavy cardstock paper that has held up remarkably well.

What makes the 'Two of Us' brand so special is its ability to blend adorable imagery with real-life narratives. In an era before widespread telephone use, postcards like this were the primary way families stayed connected across distances in rural Pennsylvania. The coal region towns of Conyngham and Mahanoy City were bustling with activity in 1914, and this card offers a direct window into that world. Collectors of the 'Two of Us' series will recognize this as a desirable example because it combines the popular cat theme with a fully written and postmarked message, something many surviving cards lack.

Whether you are building a comprehensive collection of early American illustrated postcards or simply looking for a unique piece of Pennsylvania history with undeniable cuteness factor, this 'Two of Us' 1914 cat postcard delivers on every level. The combination of the iconic series name, the detailed kitten illustration, and the touching personal message creates a one-of-a-kind artifact that tells multiple stories at once. Display it proudly in a shadow box frame to showcase both sides, or add it to your growing archive of 20th century ephemera. Its timeless appeal ensures it will be cherished for generations to come.

Key Features of This Two of Us Postcard

Iconic 'Two of Us' series illustration with two kittens and broken vase

Original 1914 postmark and one-cent Washington stamp

Handwritten message from Cousin Hattie with full family context

Standard 5.5 x 3.5 inch dimensions on durable period paper

Very good condition with authentic age patina but no structural damage

Owning this piece means owning a small but significant piece of American social history wrapped in the most adorable packaging imaginable. The 'Two of Us' 1914 cat postcard is ready to find its next loving home where its charm can continue to delight.

 _gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))

Item specifics

Era 1910s
Year 1914
Theme Cats
Type Illustrated Postcard
Topic Animals / Kittens
Postmark September 16, 1914
Condition Notes Used with age wear
Country of Origin United States

Used - Very good — Vintage 1914 postcard with minor age-related discoloration and stains on the reverse. No tears or major damage. The stamp is canceled and the message is fully legible. — Defects: Minor age-related browning and stains on the message side, light handling wear and creases consistent with age, canceled stamp with postmark ink

Ships from the United States with tracking.

← Back to The Catalogue