Having A Nice Time

South Haven

2009-09-11T16:43:00.007-05:00

THE SOUTH HAVEN APARTMENTS

725 Bayshore Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

15 units on the Intercoastal Waterway. One hundred feet dock space, 3 blocks from ocean, elevator and maid service, shuffleboard court. Tel. Logan4-5256.

February 12, 1957

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

“We are thoroughly enjoying the lovely Florida sunshine and I for one will be sorry when our vacation ends. Weather has been ideal so far. Bill and I are about to start out and look for a golf course. See you in the near future.”

Emily and Bill

This building appears to have been replaced by a 12 story behemoth. The neighboring buildings are very much like this one.

The Waldorf Astoria

2009-09-09T21:09:00.000-05:00

“The Unofficial Palace of New York”

January 15, 1937

New York, New York

“I hope you are all well. There has been rain every day and visibility is poor but have seen many interesting things. Saw Hudson River and Grant’s Tomb today. Pipe organ playing now in this hotel.”

A.J.R.

Mirror Lake

2009-09-04T19:45:00.003-05:00

Magnificient view of St. Petersburg's skyline reflected from the quiet surface of Mirror Lake. One of Florida's most exotic scenes.

July 17, 1962
Saint Petersburg, Florida

Dear Al
"Arrived here Thursday July 12th. Had a nice trip the weather was fine we are 1 st from mirror lake on card. Drop a line let me know any news."
Jessie Joe

Big Room, Carlsbad Caverns

2009-09-03T12:03:00.003-05:00

BIG ROOM
CARLSBAD CAVERNS NATIONAL PARK
NEW MEXICO
These formations are along the trail in the famous Big Room.

September 6, 1988
Whites City, New Mexico

Hello All-
"So far it has been a good vacation, but New Orleans had rain for 3 days & I got a minor head cold- Texas was dry & now I head for the Pacific-"
Robert

Valley of the Monuments

2009-09-01T17:48:00.006-05:00

VALLEY OF THE MONUMENTS
Northern Arizona
"Unbelievable" is the word for this awe-inspiring land of nature's colorful and startling sculptures.

September 11, 1955
Whittier, California

"Well how are you all to day. I got back Sat after noon it took 8 hr to drive through monument valley boy they sure have bad road. I got my car clean up this morning and load up my tool will work on them tomorrow. Well guess we'll close"

Ma

Patricia Murphy's Candelight Restaurants

2009-08-28T17:36:00.005-05:00

PATRICIA MURPHY'S CANDELIGHT RESTAURANTS
Since 1930
THE CASCADES, U.S. 1
Deerfield-Boca Raton, Florida
ALSO AT
Bahia Mar, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
One Fifth Avenue, New York City
260 Madison Avenue, New York City
12 E. 49th Street, New York City
1703 Central Park Avenue, Westchester, N.Y.
OPEN EVERY DAY ALL YEAR

Hi Dears,
"Why can't we have a restaurant like this at home? We were so happy to see dear Art and Marge. They certainly rolled out the 'Red Carpet' for us all the way! They are just great. We arrived in Florida last Thursday and weather is 84-85 everyday. They are praying for rain. Water temp at pool is 84 too! Have good weather when we get home May 6!!!!"
Love to each of you,
Rene and Marge

Patricia Murphy is a restaurant success story from the Depression era. Here's an 1956 excerpt from the Charter, a Nova Scotia newspaper:

" A Newfoundland girl who left her home in Placentia during the Depression to seek her fortune in New York and with a few breaks from Lady Luck, together with boundless enthusiasm and energy, Patricia Murphy has found success.Patricia entered the restaurant business and later owned highly successful eating places in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Manhasset, L. I. and Yonkers."

She left for the great American metropolis with only a small allowance in her pocket and a self unpolished piano-playing talent. In New York she earned one meal a day by playing during luncheon at a small cafeteria. On the same street was a small tearoom where she often ate a "budget meal". One evening she found her favourite retreat closed. She pounded on the door and brought out the cook, who was packing up to leave. She heard the place was closing down because business was so poor, people were really hard hit for "eating out money", she recalled.

She offered the cook a job, made a deal with the landlord to pay $25.00 a week for the use of his equipment and space and then retired to her room with a thick American cookbook. At that time she knew nothing about the tastes of Americans, except they too seem to like hot bread and such mysterious things as "apple brown bells and prune whip". She decided on "popovers" as the hot bread because they could be made quickly and required inexpensive ingredients. Her business started to grow, slowly but surely, now her Yonkers restaurant on Central Ave. New York distributes 10,000 popovers a day, along with tiny loaves of hot bread, muffins, sweet rolls and biscuits. In 1938, Patricia moved into a second restaurant in Manhattan. She occupied herself with the two until she opened another, a suburban place in Manhasset in 1946."

Safety Harbor

2009-08-28T08:30:00.002-05:00

SAFETY HARBOR SPA
Safety Harbor, Florida
Oldest Natural Mineral Spring Spa in America
Safety Harbor Spa combines the fun and relaxation of a gracious vacation with a sound, sensible health improving program under Professional supervision. Fifteen minutes from Tampa and St. Petersburg International Airports.

December 20, 1967
Safety Harbor, Florida

Dear Maurice,
"All's well here. Not a hard life to take. Many New York friends to golf with. Weather has been mostly good and warm. Hope all is normal with estates. Looks like we will stay here 'till Feb. then to Sarasota (Far Horizons) for a month."
Best from the Mrs. and Happy New Year.

Milton

From the Catskills

2009-08-17T17:32:00.003-05:00

Nature at its best, Catskill Mts, N.Y.

August 17, 1956
Hunter, New York

Hi Dad,
Having fun here. Hope you can come up on a weekend. Today, we went to Haines Falls and saw Mommy's Grandfather's and Grandmother's grave. Did I get any mail? From whom? Please write.

Love, Eleanor

The Wagon Wheel

2009-08-13T23:09:00.002-05:00

THE WAGON WHEEL

ROCKTON, ILLINOIS

Located at the intersection of Routes 2 and 75

Serving quality food that we believe you particularly desire. Only women are employed in the kitchen of THE WAGON WHEEL because women, through their innate sense of taste and daintiness excel in the fine arts of cookery. These enjoyable meals served in the quaint atmosphere of THE WAGON WHEEL will appeal to the most exacting appetite.

Un-mailed post card.

This caption cracks me up. As I recall, this place burned to the ground several years ago. I guess there were no men around to extinguish it.

Seaport Motor Inn, Mystic, Connecticut

2009-06-16T12:26:00.000-05:00

SEAPORT MOTOR INN
Int. 95, Seaport Exit, Conn. Rte. 27, Mystic CT. On a hillside overlooking scenic Mystic River, Olde Mistick Village and Mystic Marinelete Aquarium. 1/4 mile from famous historic Mystic Seaport Museum. Open all year. Swimming Pool, A.C. Color T.V. Seafarer Restaurant and Captain's Lounge.

Card not mailed, but there is a note...

"This is where Amos was the other week, & then he was in Michigan & then he went to Boston & tomorrow he goes to N.Y. & then next week he goes to New England States again."

Earl-Carroll Theatre-Restaurant, Hollywood

2009-05-15T17:00:00.001-05:00

The Earl Carroll Theatre-Restaurant in the heart of Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard near Vine, is a favorite Nite Spot in the Film Capital of the World. Seating arrangements are terraced so all guests may enjoy an unobstructed view of the lavish stage production with "Sixty of the Most Beautiful Girls in the World."

February 28, 1947

Burbank, California

Hello Kids.
"We are having a good time. Went up to Big Red Wood Forest Park to-day. 200 mi. up valley from here. We are starting home Mar. 4. We got lot of places to go yet. Hope everybody is O.K."

Mom & Dad

A very interesting history on this venue, from showgirls to Hair, to the Doors and finally, iCarly. Check out the wikipedia entry here.

The Deer Hunter

2009-04-22T18:30:00.001-05:00

TABLES-TURNED on this deer hunter.

October 26, 1971
Gaines, Pennsylvania

Dear Greg,

"Hi. How are you? I know you missed me. So I'll be home soon. This man his deer tied him up and the deer is driving."

Love, Birdie.

Slipping on by on LSD, heading into town

2009-04-21T22:22:00.001-05:00

A view of the south end of Lincoln Park with the newly constructed driveways, great bathing beach and recreation pier, and 440-foot beach house. This development, completed by the Chicago Park District in 1941, adds another to the many attractions of Chicago as a place for summer fun.

September 13, 1949
Chicago, Illinois

Hello Pauline & Art.
"We are having a good rest and a good time. Going out to the R.R. fair today."

Mom & Dad

The North Avenue Beach House was recently reconstructed in the same basic style, to appear like a cruise ship.

The Frontier Hotel, Las Vegas

2009-03-11T17:30:00.013-05:00

The Frontier Hotel Las Vegas Strip
Known as the "Friendly Hotel" the Frontier offers great star entertainment ans services.

September 20th, 1979
Las Vegas, Nevada

Dear Wilma,
"Russ & Annette have gone home. I'll fly back to Cleveland Oct 4th and Russ will take me home. The desert is so pretty. Going to a Mall today. Hope all are ok. More later." Marilyn

The hotel was torn down recently, but as far as I know, the sign still stands at the vacant lot.

Yosemite

2009-03-09T17:17:00.000-05:00

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA
"WAWONA" TUNNEL TREE
This famous tree is in the Mariposa Grove of Big Trees, a pleasant drive of 36 miles from the hotels and camps in Yosemite Valley. The "Wawona" tree is 227 feet tall, and 90 feet in circumference. In this grove more than six hundred giant Sequoias have been growing here for centuries... the Earth's largest and oldest trees.

August 26, 1954
San Rafael, California

Hi Folks,
"Drove through this tree today. It's just beautiful up here. We're enjoying our vacation so far. How's our little bambino doing? Give her a big fat kiss for me." Joe, Marge + kids.

Six Flags Over Georgia

2009-02-25T12:30:00.000-06:00

Atlanta, GA.
SIX FLAGS - "The Mind Bender" - only triple loop ride in the U.S. (2.5 million dollar roller coaster).

April 19, 1984
Atlanta, Georgia

"Enjoying a good vacation but it's too cool and rainy. Helen & Kenneth are up home this week. They are getting a new Pontiac at Thorpe's to-day..leaving their old one for Milton. I was up with Bubbles last week-end, and will do the same this week-end. Home on the 27th." Don

Heavy Stuff from Champaign

2009-02-19T20:47:00.001-06:00

Ferdinand Leger (1881-1955) Yellow Flowers in a Blue Vase

October 27, 1965
Champaign, IL

John,
"Talking to you makes me feel so happy. Completely relaxing - and removes what Paul Young calls my "bitterness", i.e. the cynicism that comes out of disgust. But after talking to you, I live in an aura of happiness that lasts quite a while. Really, just thinking about you suffices if I'm not real tired. Took a nap last night after classes and woke up naturally think about you (which is a marvellous way to wake up) and the combination changes my whole perspective from one of confusion and disgust to optimism." LOTS OF LIKE - Claire.

Cavalier et Cheval
Peinture japonaise anonyme du XVII siecle

November 2, 1965
Urbana, Illinois

"YOU, SIR, DISTRACT WAY TOO MUCH OF MY ATTENTION. However - except for peculiar occasions you do not obsess me - just the quite frequent thought of you adds great delight to my day - BUT this evening, well really every two minutes is not conducive to productive study." (Signed with a heart)

I debated about posting these. Such personal notes really belong in a performed envelope, not on simple post cards, let alone on the Internet in a frivolous weblog. Everything about these cards amazes me. It's hard to believe that a college student would write in such reflective and analytical tones. In some ways, the messages to John almost seem suffocating. I wonder what happened.

The Shamrock

2009-02-09T12:40:00.002-06:00

THE SHAMROCK - 414 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida.
Ultra-modern, ocean front apartment hotel near Broadwalk and Bandshell. Offering luxurious comfort in an atmosphere of informal refinement. Apartments accommodate 2 to 8 persons. Daily, weekly, and monthly rates. PHONE 2-0252.

February 9, 1957
Daytona Beach, Florida

Hi,
"Enjoyed the drive down w/Ag, Eliz, and Wes B. We're staying here while Ag and Eliz continue a trip through the state. It's 80 degrees and the beach is lovely."
Best to all, Harriet.

A well cultivated farm

2009-02-03T12:07:00.001-06:00

Greetings from Hunter, N.Y.
"I know few things more pleasing to the eye....than a well-situated, well-cultivated farm." -Edw. Everett

March 31, 1964
Hunter, New York

Dad. "We finally got the heat on OK!! We also have a saw. We will call the telephone co. today. Its cold as heck up here! The kids here have school now!" See you, Love, Barbara.

I can't confirm that this, but the quote may be attributed to Edward Everett (1794-1865), a Whig from Massachusetts who became the president of Harvard and Secretary of State under Fillmore. Another claim to fame is he gave a two-hour Gettysburg Oration in 1863 that was eclipsed in history by Lincoln's two minute Address. (Wikipedia)

The Thunderbird Lodge

2009-01-29T16:53:00.000-06:00

THUNDERBIRD LODGE - EUREKA 5TH and Broadway Eureka, California 95501 Located in downtown Eureka, California, the "Heart of the Redwood Empire" at Broadway, between 4th and 5th streets. (Highway 101 North and South). - 15 minutes from Eureka Airport. Restaurant, heated swimming pool, T.V. radio, direct dial telephone, and automatic coffee makers.

Unused post card, circa mid 1960's. Several Thunderbird motels still exist. Check out some great images at All Things Thunderbird

Coca-Cola Pavilion

2009-01-22T17:30:00.004-06:00

The Coca-Cola Pavilion
The Coca-cola Tower, rising from the court of this pavilion, features the world's largest and finest electronic carillon. The pavilion also features a unique, free "Global Holiday'" the U.S.O. Lounge and the American Radio Relay League.

Unused post card from the 1964-65 World's Fair in New York. I found very little information about the Pavilion, and no photographs of the actual building. The carillon was moved to Stone Mountain Park in Atlanta, Georgia.

Laughing Water - Circus Circus

2009-01-21T23:01:00.001-06:00

Laughing Water - Smiling clown face welcomes sun-lovers to sparlking pool at Circus Circus Hotel/Casion/Spa, mid-way on Las Vegas Strip. Carnival games and 13 hours of free circus acts daily, plus lavish gaming casino, variety of restaurants and snack bars, shops, convention facilities and 800-room luxury hotel provide full family recreational facilities at Las Vegas' most unique resort complex.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Hi,
"We are having a great time. Very hot 110 degrees and getting hotter. We sat next to 'Tommy' on 8 is Enough on the plane. We went boating, lost the anchor. We are going to see Tony Orlando tonite." See you soon, Love Linda.

I wonder how many small kids were terrified to jump in the water here. And where exactly do you go boating in Vegas anyway?

Port Austin, Michigan

2009-01-19T16:56:00.001-06:00

July, 1907
Port Austin, Michigan

"Rec'd your post card some time ago. I am getting along pretty well so far. Have not upset the barrel yet. Tell your father I will write perhaps next week." Sincerely, J.R. Kay

On the front:

"This is one of Port Austin's residences, I play tennis on this lawn quite often. Ees dees not nice haus?"

This is one of the oldest cards I have. Prior to 1907, post cards were designed to only allow messages on the front, with the back reserved for the address. This card straddles that change in design, as the back is designed for both message and address, but the sender chose to write on both sides. The message on the front contains some pseudo-German in the last sentence.

Sarasota

2008-12-29T01:46:00.000-06:00

Unique Garden Center with Chamber of Commerce Building in foreground
Sarasota, Florida

January 23, 1969
Sarasota Florida

Dear Maurice, "Greetings from Sarasota. Despite occasional rain all well. Anything new regarding examiner's audit. Hope you were able to compromise and avoid contest. Did you get away yet? Hope Horty okay." My Best,

The message and address were typewritten; very unusual for a post card.

Christmas, 1910

2008-12-21T17:00:00.003-06:00

German Post Card

December 20, 1910
Tampa, Florida

Dear Friends,

"Only a card for Xmas greetings. Hope you are all well. I have been here 3 weeks. Mr. G prospecting in New Hope. He will get here by Xmas. I have a cold like Grippe. Weather fine, but cool for Fla. Ned's folks pleasantly located here. Boys growing fast in school. Beattie still remembers Mr. Green's folks, can hear all about you all." Best love to you all, J.H. Earhart.

I love this card, written in flowing fountain pen. You just don't hear much about prospecting and the Grippe anymore. Happy Holidays!

Swedish card, via NY World's Fair

2008-12-03T00:16:00.001-06:00

Solnedgang, Fjallbacka

June, 1965
World's Fair, New York

John,
"World's Fair is great fun. Everyone around seems to be enjoying themselves. I bought some souvenirs for you- not very exciting. This is from Sweden exhibit. This morning saw Verranzano-Narrows Bridge. It it as beautiful as I expected. Had dark beer in German Beer Garden. Wish you were here." Claire

This postcard is imported from Sweden and was purchased at the Fair by the sender. Card has a nice World's Fair stamp.

Hello from Wildwood

2008-11-25T20:32:00.001-06:00

Wildwood, New Jersey

August 6, 1988
Rio Grande, New Jersey

Hi Paula,
"The weather is great, sunny and hot. How's everything in Rockaway? It would be great if you were here! Well time to head to the beach I'll call you Sat. when I get home." See you soon, Tim

Two facts about Wildwood:

1. There is a tremendous collection of vintage motels and Doo-wop architecture in Wildwood, however they are threatened by the development of newer, larger hotels.

2. Rock Around the Clock, often credited as the first rock and roll record, was first performed on Memorial Day weekend in 1954 at the HofBrau Hotel in Wildwood by Bill Haley & His Comets.

Hotel Muscle Shoals

2008-11-20T12:05:00.001-06:00

Unused postcard, dated circa 1950. These generically made black and white photocards are intriguing. This one was made by the W. M. Cline Company in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and almost looks like a shot taken shortly after construction was completed.

Muscle Shoals is known to music fans as the location of Fame Studios, where a slew of 60's and 70's soulful rock classics were recorded.

Pensive in Cape Cod

2008-11-17T08:05:00.001-06:00

Distributed by E.D. West Co., South Yarmouth, Cape Cod, Mass.

August 22, 1955
Hyannis, Massachusetts

Dear Norman,

"Some friends were going up here & I came along (almost two weeks ago) as I felt that certain things were getting the best of me & I could do nothing about at the time. Will be in touch with you as soon as I get back. I don't have the Weldsteins add. please send my regards." Sam

99% of the used cards I have are innocuous little 'wish you were here' missives. A few though are very personal notes that make you wonder about the people and the circumstances. The front of this card ranks right up there on the list of worst poems ever written. Poor Sam.

The Good Life

2008-11-12T12:06:00.001-06:00

La Bonne Vie
3475 South Ocean Blvd. (AIA) Palm Beach, Florida 33480
Palm Beach's Finest Luxury Condominium Residence. 275 feet private beach, Swiming Pool, Saunas, Game and entertainment rooms, Coffee Shop. Phone: 305-582-9017

September 11, 1968
West Palm Beach, Florida

Dear Moe:
"We are enjoying ourselves living at the above address- You should do the same. Kindest regards. Best Wishes for the New Year." Diane and Bert

Looks like the sender tried to indicate the unit they lived in on the cover, then thought better of it. Dig that swinging lobby! Constructed in 1967.

Onboard the Canberra

2008-11-06T12:53:00.001-06:00

CANBERRA P & O - Orient Lines (45,270 tons) Colour Photograph by Beken & Son, Cowes

August 20, 1966
On Board the Canberra, en route to San Francisco

Dear Mum,
"As you will be able to see from picture we are on our way at long last. We left Vancouver at 5:00pm last night, we will be in San Francisco 7:00am tomorrow morning. The weather is glorious, food excellent. We are all enjoying ourselves, Carly and Christina particularly, they are playing in the play room right now. Be seeing you soon." XXX

Sent via air mail to Kent, England.

The Last Ocean Liners

Louisiana State Capitol

2008-11-04T16:27:00.007-06:00

This view of the Capitol shows the Lady of the Lake, lake situated at the back.
Important facts are: Cost of Capitol $5,000,000. It is 34 stories high or 450 feet. Today it is considered the finest capitol building in the United States.

February 8, 1951
Natchez, Mississippi

Dear Sister & Frances
"Saw the Capitol of Louisiana went through & looked the city over from the top all around swell view." Lots of love to all L.T.G.

The artists in these old linen cards were often very creative with color. I see no evidence of red stone in the actual building. It's still a magnificent structure though.

The Beverly Hilton

2008-11-02T22:49:00.000-06:00

The Beverly Hilton
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA
This world famous new hotel has added a new garage and parking accommodations which now provides parking space for 2,500 cars, largest parking facilities of any hotel in the world.

Wherever you go use CARTE BLANCHE the all-purpose credit card

December 31, 1964
Los Angeles, California

Hi "This is where we are staying- the team is here. Ann came today on the plane with the Governor." Lorayne

Could be Lorayne and Ann were in town for the Rose Bowl.... The Beverly Hilton was constructed in 1955 and owned from 1988-2003 by none other than Merv Griffin. The hotel underwent a $60 million renovation in 2004-05 and is still a hot spot for celebrity activity.

Swan Boats, Public Gardens, Boston

2008-10-31T08:49:00.002-05:00

SWAN BOATS
Public Gardens, Boston, Mass.
A unique institution are the Swan Boats that cruise around the Public Gardens in the heart of Back Bay.

July 27, 1972
Boston, Massachusetts

Dear Grandma,
"My best friend (maid of honor) came to visit & she's coming back with me to Vernon for a visit. Quality counts more to me than quantity in friendship, but I'm lucky and have both.

Mom needs more help than I can give her, though I cheer her up for short periods. Aunt M.M. was going to take me to Sunken Gardens, but it rained, remember? She sent us a card and brought me a pretty Florida necklace."

Take care, Love Eleanor

Written in very small writing, this is one of those personal cards brimming with sincerity. No innocuous "weather is great...blah blah" here. "Quality" and "Quantity" are underlined in this note.

The Swan Boats have been around since 1877.

Greetings from Baltimore

2008-10-30T12:07:00.000-05:00

Baltimore, Maryland
Sixth largest city in the U.S., population 939,000. World-famous port ranks second in foreign trade tonnage. The top view, overlooking Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the Star Spangled Banner, shows the outer harbor from Canton to Sparrows Point. The bottom view pictures the nearby docks in the inner harbor to the heart of the city.

[Postmark unreadable]

"We made the connection with 2 seconds to spare. Landed in S.C. & here a 1/2 hr. Sunny & cold. Will write & thanks so much." Love

Fire Island Pines, New York

2008-10-28T12:10:00.001-05:00

May 15, 1971 - Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
FIRST DAY OF ISSUE

This image reminds me of the harbor scene at the beginning of Gilligan's Island.

Moonlight Over Diamond Head

2008-10-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

MOONLIGHT OVER DIAMOND HEAD
Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

July 14, 1980
Honolulu, Hawaii

Dear Lud,
"Saw Jim Nabors Show. Polynesian Cultural Center. Moonlite. Sail. Pearl Harbor. Shopped at Sears and Woolworth's. Daddy swims every 6A.M. Cannot stay more than 1/2 hour in Sun."

Hope you are well. Mother & Dad

Handsome Great Buddha

2008-10-23T06:59:00.001-05:00

Entire View of Handsome Great Buddha, Kamakura.

U.S. Navy FPO 98761
August 11, 1976

Gram,
"This great statue is only about 10 miles from where we live, made from bronze in 1200 A.D. It stands some 40 ft. high and is really quite impressive. Many Japanese are both Buddhists ans Shintoists, very few are Christians. We climbed up into his head for a really nice view of the city. Will write more later." Love, Quellie

I've often wondered what it's like to get inside the head of a great Buddha....

Kotoku-in

Perfect Pocono Vacation

2008-10-21T07:16:00.000-05:00

Water Sports At
MOUNT AIRY LODGE Mt. Pocono, Pennsylvania
For a perfect POCONO vacation or honeymoon, MOUNT AIRY LODGE has everything - Private Lake... Ocean Sandy Beach...Boating...Indoor Sports Palace, 6 Indoor Tennis Courts and Indoor Ice Skating...Indoor and outdoor Swimming Pool...Health Club...Orchestra Nightly at our new CRYSTAL ROOM, ROYAL LOUNGE, CLUB SUZANNE and EMPRESS ROOM...TV...Saddle Horses...4 Outdoor Tennis Courts...Reasonable Rates - Include Delicious meals, sports and entertainment. Write for booklet: MOUNT AIRY LODGE, Mt. Pocono, PA. Tel. 717-839-8811. Open all year. "America's Leading Year 'Round Resort"

July 7, 1976
Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania

Mom & Rosie
"Having a very nice time. The place is very pretty. The food is good. So far the weather is good. We saw a good show. There is a lot to do here. Well I'll say so long. See you when we get home." Allie & Jennie

Mount Airy closed in 2001...

"Notwithstanding its unglamorous demise, many a matron can still blush when recalling nights spent amid floor-to-ceiling mirrors, velvet-swagged canopy beds and shag carpeting so blue and deep, it successfully hid several generations of dirt."

''The food was lousy, but it was a legalized orgy,'' said Mickey Freeman, a comedian who often appeared in the Crystal Room, Mount Airy's 2,000-seat show palace that hosted headliners like Bob Hope, Milton Berle, Connie Francis and Nipsey Russell. ''I used to say, 'If you break the mirror above the ceiling, you'll have seven years of bad sex.' ''

from the New York Times, November 2, 2001

Hotel Delmonico

2008-10-20T08:30:00.003-05:00

Delmonico Hotel
Collins Avenue at 64th Miami Beach, Florida Completely Air Conditioned - Open All Year Parking Facilities - Directly on the Ocean

Unused post card, probably from the 1940s. The Delmonico was located at 6393 Collins Avenue in North Miami Beach. I have not found much information on this building, which appears to have been demolished. Nice card, though.

Here's another historic post card view: Historic Miami Beach

The Dam is just Huge

2008-10-16T16:37:00.003-05:00

This spectacular view of Hoover Dam was taken from near river-level downstream from the huge dam. Here flanked by towering canyon walls, the dam is seen in the distance. Hoover Dam - the highest in the world- was built and is operated by the Bureau of Reclamation of the Department of the Interior.

December 22, 1958
Kingman, Arizona

Dear Everyone:
"We just came through and that is the most beautiful mountain sights I ever expect to see & the dam is just huge. Roads have been good. Sandra had an up set sumach to-day."
Love, Bertha.

At its base, Hoover Dam is 660 feet thick which is 60 feet longer than two football fields laid end-to-end. Combined with its top thickness of 45 feet, there is enough concrete (4.5 million cubic yards) in Hoover Dam to build a two-lane highway from Seattle, Washington to Miami, Florida. Yes, Bertha, that is just huge.

WIKI

Toms River, NJ

2008-10-15T23:52:00.004-05:00

Boating at Huddy Park, Toms River, N.J.

August 29, 1966
Toms River, New Jersey

Hi Folks,
"Having a grand time just loafing. Better than working." Love, Mom & Dad

Facts about Toms River (at least according to Wikipedia)

- During the American Revolution, Toms River was home to a strategically important salt works that supplied colonial militias, as well as a base for privateer vessels that plundered British and Tory ships off the coast.
- The 1979 movie, The Amityville Horror, was filmed in Toms River, rather than Amityville, New York" on Long Island. Local police and ambulance workers played extras.
- In 2007, Toms River was ranked by CQ Press as the ninth safest "city" in the United States, of the 378 cities nationwide.

Bucket of Blood Dead Wagon

2008-10-13T07:30:00.002-05:00

BUCKET OF BLOOD DEAD WAGON
The Bucket of Blood Dead Wagon is one of the picturesque sights of the days gone by. This hearse was first used in Gold Hill in the 1860's. It was moved to Virginia City in the 70's and was in use until the early part of the 1900's. It is now on display at the Bucket of Blood Saloon, Virginia City, Nevada.

May 18, 1973
Virginia City, Nevada

Hi- "Haven't lost all our money in Nev. Have been playing some blackjack I'm ahead- have accumulated about 100 silver dollars." Harold & Linnea

This place is about as American as it gets. It's the old-timey hey-days at the Bucket of Blood Saloon!

The Hotel Cortez, El Paso Texas

2008-10-10T08:01:00.004-05:00

El Paso, Texas
The central business area of "The International City," the largest border city to Mexico.

March 1, 1983
Tuscon, Arizona

"Hi Kiddo! I left Beeville quite a while back & went to El Paso - I got an apartment with Robert but we have no phone. Right now I'm in Tuscon for 1 wk & will be in El Paso again thru the end of March. Hope you and Chrissie are well. I have sinus problems and feel yukkie. Take care & I'll keep those postcards coming!" Love, Tina

The message may be 1983, but the photo is early 1960s. The Hotel Cortez is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Touted as a "Castle of Old Spain" upon its debut on September 10, 1926, the ten-story Hotel Cortez stands upon a site previously occupied by two hotels. The design incorporates iconographic detailing on the main façade representative of the region’s Spanish heritage, while throughout the building elements of Spanish Colonial Revival Style predominate. President John F. Kennedy, the hotel’s most famous guest, stayed at the Cortez during his visit to El Paso on June 5, 1963.

Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco

2008-10-04T07:13:00.002-05:00

CAMP FLAG AT
CAMP NO-BE-BO-SCO
North Bergen County Council, Inc. Boy Scouts of America R.D. 2, Blairstown, N.J. 07825

August 8, 1980
Blairstown, New Jersey

Dear Mom and Dad, "Sorry I hav'nt been writing...I lost my notebook with my letters in it. I am having a good time." Love, John

This private camp borders Sand Lake in New Jersey and has provided entertainment to countless Boy Scouts over its history. It is also known to horror film fans as the setting of Camp Crystal Lake in the 1980 film, Friday the 13th. It was established in 1927 and is privately owned by the NNJC Boy Scouts of America. Prior to acquisiton by William Penn in 1715 the campsite can be traced back to the Native American occupation. Tragedy struck the camp on February 22, 1944, when a B-17F Flying Fortress crashed into the nearby Kittatinny Ridge in the midst of World War II, killing all 12 servicemen on board.

Beside the Pancake Man, Soudersburg, PA

2008-10-01T17:10:00.003-05:00

Soudersburg Motel Located on U.S. 30 in Soudersburg, Pa. 8 Miles East of Lancaster City Opposite DUTCH HAVEN, beside the PANCAKE MAN Pennsylvania Dutch Vacationland Heated Pool, Bicycles - Quiet and Restful - Bus or Private Guide Tours - Air Conditioning and TV - 3 Restaurants in walking distance - Heated - Open the Year' Round - 30 Modern Units, 1 Kitchenette. Guided Tours - For Reservations write or call: Henry Stauffer, Manager Box No. 1 Soudersburg, PA. 17577 Phone 717 687-6101

November 2, 1970
Hempstead, New York

"What of needle biopsy? Had a lousy vacation. Never got to the Smoky Mts- all pea-soup fog and rain! GOOD NEWS here- I've finally been promoted to FULL PROFESSOR- effective 1/1/71." Love to you and Jane, Elisabeth

A very strange way to begin a postcard greeting, if you ask me. This is an oversized card, measuring 9-1/2" x 3-1/2".

The Countess of Dufferin

2008-09-28T20:33:00.001-05:00

Countess of Dufferin
The first railway engine to enter western Canada, Winnepeg, Man. Canada. Many years later it was presented to the City of Winnepeg and stands in front of the C.P.R. Station, a monument to progress. Part of the C.P.R. Station is in the background.

July 26, 1962
Olympia, Washington

"Hi-
Having a good time. Stayed here a day between trains in a nearby hotel- A lovely trip across Canada and a very beautiful day on the boat, bus, and boat to Vancouver Isl. and Seattle. Saw the Fair yesterday. More about that later. A lot of walking for what you see, me thinks. "

As ever, the Hancocks.

The postmark on this card says "America's Space Age World's Fair Seattle USA 1962"
A Little History

The Pavilion of the Vatican, New York

2008-09-26T10:34:00.013-05:00

The Pavilion of the Vatican New York World's Fair 1964-65
"Peace through Understanding" Designed to create separate distinct settings for its major exhibits - Michelangelo's "Pieta" and an early Christian sculpture from the catacombs, "The Good Shepard."

July 22, 1962
World's Fair, New York

"Thought you'd like to have a stamp. Words of mine can't describe what we are seeing. Road subway to & from Fair last night."
See you, Vi

The cupola of the Pavilion is now part of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Groton, CT. The stamp the writer speaks of is an Italian stamp with an image of the Pope, I think.

New York World's Fair

Fire Island, New York

2008-09-25T17:37:00.002-05:00

LEJA BEACH HOTEL Davis Park - Fire Island, N.Y.
Easily reached by ferry service from Sands Pit Dock, Patchogue, Long Island, N.Y. Ideal for Surfcasting, Swimming, Yachting and Sun Bathing. Tel. GRover 5-0300.

No message on this postcard, but it's a First Day of Issue for a 9 cent Air Mail Stamp, postmarked in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina on May 15, 1971. I don't know what amenities constitute a hotel over a motel, but I suspect that a finished wall over the studs is one of them. Somehow I think the yachting crowd from Long Island deserved better.

That Little Old Winemaker

2008-09-24T07:48:00.002-05:00

That "Little Old Winemaker" of the Italian Swiss Colony Winery That "Little Old Winemaker - Me" symbolizes the finest traditions of winemaking which are carefully followed by the Italian Swiss Colony at Asti in the heart of one of California's finest winegrowing districts. Visitors to the winery are shown each step of the winemaking process as they tour the extensive cellars set among hundreds of acres of choice vineyards. The winery and Tasting Room are open daily.

August 22, 1962
Asti, California

"Having a fine time. This place is interesting. "
Best Wishes, Anne & Howard

The Fabulous Bay Lawn Apartment Motel

2008-09-23T16:38:00.008-05:00

300 feet from Florida's Finest Beach
Bay Lawn Apt. Motel
406 Hamden Drive South
Clearwater Beach, Florida (On the Gulf of Mexico)
Hotel Rooms, efficiency and bedroom apartments, electric kitchens, electric heat and air-conditioning, T.V, heated swimming pool, shuffleboard court, private dock, boating, fishing and bathing.

July 7, 1969
Clearwater, Florida

Hi Folks-
"This place, Wow! Having a ball. See you soon."
Mary, Charles, Joan, George, Nancy and Jill

I love these 1960s era motel scenes.This place still exists, although the image on Google maps is not quite as idyllic.

Hotel Mark Hopkins - San Francisco

2008-09-22T17:02:00.007-05:00

The Top of the Mark is located high in the sky on the topmost floor of Hotel Mark Hopkins. The luxury and glamour of this unique room and the breathtaking panorama from its windows combine to make it America's most spectacular cocktail lounge. - Geo. D. Smith, Gen'l Manager

June 22, 1946
Berkeley, California

"I made it." (Written in very shaky fountain pen ink..)

Seven Mile Bridge - Florida Keys

2008-09-21T22:07:00.001-05:00

Aerial View of the Seven Mile Bridge

Longest Over Water Span in the Overseas Highway System, in the Florida Keys

February 15, 1974
U.S. Post Office Florida Keys

Hi-
"Greetings from the Florida Keys. The sun is very good for me. Will write when I get home." Glenn

St. Paul's Church - Norfolk, Virginia

2008-09-20T09:14:00.003-05:00

Old St. Paul's Church, Norfolk, Va. One of the few buildings not totally destroyed by fire caused by bombardment from Lord Dunmore's British Fleet on January 1, 1776. The church was struck by cannon shot and the cannonball is embedded in cement in the spot where it struck. Note: Cannonball over plaque.

April 22, 1957
Norfolk, Virginia

"You did a good job on tuning up the Ford. She ran wonderful. Hey! Your popping the buttons." Love, Mom & Dad.

The cannonball is barely visible below the gutter on the right side of this uninspiring photograph.
More History

Augusta National Golf Club - Augusta, Georgia

2008-09-19T18:07:00.016-05:00

The Augusta National Golf Club is one of the world's greatest golf courses. Robert T. (Bobby) Jones Jr., collaborating with Dr. Alister McKenzie, after much planning and extensive preparation, completed in 1932 at Augusta, Ga., what is hailed in golf circles as one of the greatest golf courses ever built. Each of its holes has been fashioned after holes on famous courses from St. Andrews to Pebble Beach.

March 17, 1952
Augusta, Georgia

Dear Mr. Lamb-

"Just to let you know I arrived here safe- The weather is balmy so are the people- Will see you when I get back to N.Y.? -Diane

Christian Admiral Hotel, Cape May New Jersey

2008-09-17T23:08:00.008-05:00

Christian Admiral Hotel

Showing pool and auditorium located at scenic Cape May, New Jersey

August 29, 1968
Cape May, New Jersey

Dear Mary and Julius,

"I got down here safe and sound. Expect to stay until the 3rd or 4th of September. Having a wonderful time with Virginia Bowers. We went shopping this morning and I bought a pretty pr. of shoes. My friend does everything for me but breathe. I believe that she would do that for me too, if she could. See you next year."

Love, Viola

The building was demolished in February, 1996.

A really good article on the history of the building: Watching History Go Away

The Havoline Thermometer - Chicago, Illinois

2008-09-15T22:00:00.016-05:00

WORLD’S TALLEST THERMOMETER

Twenty-one stories (218 ft.) high. Shows temperature by neon light tubes. Sponsored by Indian Refining Company, Lawrenceville, Ill., makers of WAXFREE HAVOLINE MOTOR OIL – best for all cars, winter or summer, because it contains no wax. Wax turns candle-hard with cold, water-thin with heat. Keep wax out of your motor! WAXFREE HAVOLINE MOTOR OIL IS SOLD AT ALL TEXACO STATIONS.

October 31, 1933
Chicago, Illinois

"We took a ride and saw the main part of Chicago. Having a nice time at the Fair. "- J.Q.M.

Constructed at the 1933 World's Fair in Chicago, the Havoline Thermometer seems to have been be one of the most popular attractions at the Fair, judging from the number of images and souvenirs found with a quick on-line search.

More information:

Chicago World's Fair
Century of Progress
Photograph