Sent From: Illinois - When My Tan Wears Out

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Birthday, Family Correspondence, Friendship, Sent From: Illinois, Sent From: Iowa

Postcard #0033: Burlington’s Potter Memorial Arch and Pearl’s December Birthday

May 9, 2026 No Comments

Vintage hand-tinted postcard illustrating the grand stone Potter Memorial Arch, the entrance to Aspen Grove Cemetery in Burlington, Iowa, under a bright sky with lush green trees. — Front — A hand-tinted postcard showing the Potter Memorial Arch at Aspen Grove Cemetery in Burlington, Iowa.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Biggsville, IL — December 31, 1908
Sent From: Biggsville, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearl Byers, Carthage, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 32 miles
Postage: U.S. Postage One Cent, Franklin (green stamp)
Card Details: Divided back (Printed in Germany, Made expressly for S. H. Knox & Co.)

The reverse side of the postcard features a handwritten message in cursive, addressed to Miss Pearl Byers in Carthage, Illinois, with a circular postmark from Biggsville, Illinois, dated December 31, 1908, and a green one-cent Franklin stamp. — Back — Correspondence from Mayme to Miss Pearl Byers

Transcription

Hello Pearl. How are you? Dim Mr Biggs-ville at present and having a fine time. Your Dec Birthday time do you get a letter? Mayme

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard offers a charming glimpse into Pearl Byers’ life before her marriage to Harvey Sights. Sent by a friend named Mayme, the message playfully references Pearl’s “Dec Birthday time,” confirming that her special day fell in December, aligning with family records that place it on December 4th. The casual tone and inquiry “do you get a letter?” suggest an ongoing correspondence between Pearl and her social circle.

The sender, Mayme, appears to be writing from “Biggs-ville,” which is likely Biggsville, Illinois, a small town not far from Carthage. This connection between nearby towns highlights the tight-knit social fabric of rural Illinois at the turn of the century, where friends and family might live just a short distance apart. The front image of Burlington, Iowa’s Potter Memorial Arch, a common subject for early postcards, suggests Mayme might have been visiting or simply chose an interesting card for her friend.

The postcard serves as a small but significant artifact, documenting Pearl’s connections and confirming details of her early life, an important foundation for understanding her personal story before she and Harvey Sights embarked on their shared journey, eventually welcoming their daughter Marnelle.

1900s, Family Correspondence, General Correspondence, Golden Age (1900–1915), Sent From: Illinois, Sent From: Iowa

Postcard #0032: Grapes and Good Times in Nauvoo

May 8, 2026 No Comments

Hand-colored postcard depicting the Mississippi River at Nauvoo, Illinois, with lush green and autumnal trees lining both banks under a soft, hazy sky. — Front — Hand-colored view of the Mississippi River flowing past Nauvoo, Illinois.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Wever, Iowa — August 20, 1908
Sent From: Wever, Iowa
Sent To: Miss Pearle Byers, Carthage, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 25 miles
Postage: One Cent, Benjamin Franklin (green)
Card Details: Divided back postcard (1907-present era)

Back of a vintage postcard with a Wever, Iowa, postmark from August 20, 1908, a one-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp, and a handwritten message from E.W.B. to Miss Pearle Byers in Carthage, Illinois, discussing an excursion to Nauvoo. — Back — Correspondence from E.W.B. to Miss Pearle Byers

Transcription

Twas at Nauvoo Wednesday on an excursion. Had a good time. It is quite a nice place. It is a great place for grapes. E.W.B.

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard, sent to Pearle Byers, captures a pleasant “excursion” to Nauvoo, Illinois, a town known for its historical significance and scenic beauty along the Mississippi River. The sender, identified only by the initials E.W.B., was particularly impressed by the local produce, noting it as a “great place for grapes,” indicating a delightful day spent exploring.

While not from Harvey Sights, this card provides a glimpse into Pearle’s social life and the popular recreational activities of the era. Excursions, often involving steamboat trips or train rides to picturesque locations, were a common way for people to enjoy nature, escape daily routines, and socialize with friends and acquaintances.

This artifact contributes to the broader understanding of Pearle’s world before her marriage, showcasing the types of communications she received and the leisurely pursuits of her contemporaries. It paints a picture of a time when the simple pleasures of travel and local delights were cherished and shared through the mail.

1900s, Family Correspondence, Golden Age (1900–1915), Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois, Subject: Nature & Landscapes

Postcard #0030: Best Wishes with Pansies and a Midwest Farm Scene

May 6, 2026 No Comments

Vintage postcard with a teal blue satin ribbon bow and flowing ribbon on the left side, over an embossed background pattern. The right side features two clusters of purple and blue pansies, and a central framed vignette depicting a quaint rural farm scene with a house, trees, and fence. The text — Front — A “Best Wishes” postcard featuring purple pansies, an embossed blue ribbon, and a framed rural farm scene.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Carthage, Illinois — September 7, 1909
Sent From: Carthage, Illinois
Sent To: Mr. Harvey Sights, La Harpe Ill
Distance Traveled: Approximately 16 miles
Postage: U.S. Postage, One Cent (George Washington portrait)
Card Details: Divided Back postcard, popular from 1907 onwards, featuring embossed details.

The back of a vintage postcard featuring a handwritten message in black cursive ink. The sender is E.P.B. and the recipient is Mr. Harvey Sights, La Harpe, Illinois. A Carthage, Illinois postmark dated September 7, 1909, is visible along with a green one-cent U.S. Postage stamp with George Washington's portrait. The card has a vertical dividing line and an embossed floral pattern. — Back — Correspondence from E.P.B. (Pearl Byers) to Harvey Sights

Transcription

Carthage Ill. Sept. 7-09. Rec’d card this morning as I came to work. Thanks “awfully.” It is dandy. E.P.B. Mr. Harvey Sights La Harpe Ill

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard offers a charming glimpse into the early courtship between Pearl Byers and Harvey Sights. Pearl, writing from Carthage, Illinois, expresses her thanks to Harvey for a card she received earlier that morning, playfully stating it was “dandy.” This exchange highlights their regular correspondence despite living a mere sixteen miles apart, indicating a blossoming romance through the daily ritual of postcard mail.

The sender’s initials “E.P.B.” are almost certainly Pearl Byers, aligning with the family’s identity rules and the ongoing narrative of their relationship. The card was sent on September 7, 1909, a significant period in their courtship before their eventual marriage and the birth of their daughter, Marnelle.

The message’s casual and affectionate tone—”Thanks ‘awfully'”—suggests a comfort and familiarity between Pearl and Harvey, showcasing a delightful snapshot of their everyday interactions and the simple pleasures of receiving mail from a loved one in the early 20th century.

1900s, Family Correspondence, Golden Age (1900–1915), Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois, Sent From: Iowa, Subject: Buildings & Architecture

Postcard #0029: The Old Mormon Jail in Carthage, Illinois

May 5, 2026 No Comments

Sepia-toned postcard depicting the Old Mormon Jail in Carthage, Illinois, a two-story stone building with a white picket fence, a dirt path, and trees, with text indicating Joseph Smith was shot from the second-story window. — Front — A sepia-toned image of the Old Mormon Jail in Carthage, Illinois, with a white picket fence.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Iowa City, Iowa — July 8, 1908, 9 PM
Sent From: Iowa City, Iowa
Sent To: Mr Harvey Sightes, La Harpe, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 95 miles
Postage: 1 Cent U.S. Postage (Benjamin Franklin)
Card Details: Divided Back era (1907-1915)

Tan postcard back with a 1908 Iowa City postmark, a 1-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp, handwritten cursive message to Mr Harvey Sights in La Harpe, Illinois, and a return address for E. M. Collars, General Delivery, Iowa City. — Back — Correspondence from an unknown sender to Mr Harvey Sights

Transcription

Vanmeter Hotel Be good to you. Hello dad!- (Once upon a time) How are you, I am fine, got here about 1 o’clock mon night, having fine time. You adds this some day to fun address my E. M. Collars General Delived Iowa City, Io

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard, postmarked in Iowa City in 1908, is addressed to Harvey Sights, who would later marry Pearl Byers. The message, though informal and from an unidentified sender, offers a glimpse into the casual communications of the era, reporting on travel and a “fine time” to a father figure. The sender provides a return address for “my E. M. Collars” at General Delivery in Iowa City, suggesting either a temporary stay or a traveling companion.

The front of the postcard features the historically significant Old Mormon Jail in Carthage, Illinois, where Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, was killed. This landmark in Carthage holds particular relevance as it is the town where Pearl Byers resided and where she and Harvey Sights would eventually build their life together.

While not a direct communication between Pearl and Harvey, this postcard to Harvey connects to the broader geographical and historical context of their lives. It captures a moment in time when travel was an adventure, and postcards served as brief, tangible links between people across distances, even if just to share a historical site or a simple update on one’s well-being.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #0024: Harvey’s Photo and a Promise to Visit

April 30, 2026 No Comments

Oval photographic insert featuring a young man in a long coat and hat standing on a porch, with bare trees in the snowy background. Handwritten message on the postcard reads: — Front — Oval photographic insert featuring a young man in a long coat and hat standing on a porch, with bare trees in the background, next to a handwritten message.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Hamilton, Illinois — March 11, 1909
Sent From: Hamilton, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearl Byers, Carthage, Illinois
Distance Traveled: Approximately 18 miles
Postage: One Cent U.S. Postage, Franklin profile (green stamp)
Card Details: Divided Back era (1907-1915)

Back of a vintage postcard with a Hamilton, Illinois postmark dated March 11, 1909, a one-cent Franklin stamp, and a handwritten message from Harvey to Miss Pearl Byers in Carthage, Illinois. The message reads: — Back — Correspondence from Harvey Sights to Pearl Byers

Transcription

and that is free and the broom since my May be I will find a camera along with me to take my picture I will try and after this for bring you to the dear your Bery Dear Pearl This leaves me very lonesome this after[text obscured by POST CARD graphic] Harvey

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard, sent by a young Harvey Sights to Pearl Byers, serves as a poignant artifact of their early courtship. Harvey sends a photographic image of himself, possibly his current appearance, and expresses a wish to either take another picture or visit Pearl, stating “I will try and after this for bring you to the dear.” This indicates his desire to see her and deepen their connection, which was common practice during this era of long-distance romance.

The message on the back, though partially obscured, reveals Harvey’s loneliness, starting with “Dear Pearl This leaves me very lonesome this after[…].” This personal touch underscores the emotional intensity of their correspondence. The relatively short distance between Hamilton and Carthage, Illinois, would have made visits plausible, adding anticipation to Harvey’s promise.

This card is a tender snapshot of their relationship before marriage, showing the efforts Harvey made to stay connected and express his feelings, using the popular medium of postcards to bridge the physical distance between them. The slight ambiguity in the sender’s signature on the front (“Bery”) further highlights the informal and intimate nature of their exchanges.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Friendship, General Correspondence, Sent From: Illinois, Subject: Transportation

Postcard #0022: Train Wreck in the North End of the Yard

April 28, 2026 No Comments

Sepia-toned photograph of a train derailment showing several passenger cars or freight cars overturned or off the tracks, with utility poles stretching across the horizon, a few people inspecting the damage, and a flooded or muddy field in the foreground, with the faint initials — Front — A sepia-toned photograph depicts a train derailment with multiple cars off the tracks and leaning, surrounded by people, utility poles, and muddy ground.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Quincy, Ill — JUL 17 1909
Sent From: Quincy, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearle Byres Carthage Ill
Distance Traveled: Approximately 40-50 miles
Postage: U.S. Postage, One Cent, George Washington stamp
Card Details: Divided Back Era (post-1907)

The back of a vintage postcard with a one-cent George Washington U.S. postage stamp postmarked — Back — Correspondence from Theo Worrell to Miss Pearle Byres

Transcription

a wreck in the north end of our yard dont look good to a traveler Your friend Theo Worrell

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard, sent from Quincy, Illinois, by “Theo Worrell” to “Miss Pearle Byres,” offers a stark glimpse into a dramatic, yet seemingly commonplace, event of the era: a train wreck. The sender’s casual observation, “a wreck in the north end of our yard dont look good to a traveler,” suggests that such incidents, while severe, were perhaps not entirely uncommon or were at least a significant local talking point in 1909.

While this specific message doesn’t directly involve Pearl’s future husband, Harvey Sights, it illustrates the network of friends and acquaintances Pearl maintained before their marriage. Postcards served as an essential medium for sharing news and observations across nearby towns, providing immediate, albeit brief, updates on daily life and local happenings.

Carthage, Illinois, where Pearl resided (at 318 N. Fayette Street), is located southeast of Quincy. This card provides a small window into the kind of everyday communication that filled the lives of young people like Pearl and her friends, connecting their worlds through brief written exchanges often accompanied by photographs of local interest.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, Sent From: Illinois, Sent To: Carthage, IL, Subject: Buildings & Architecture, Subject: People & Portraits

Postcard #0017: Ruth’s Schoolhouse Where She Taught in Atlanta, Illinois

April 23, 2026 No Comments

A sepia-toned photograph of a white wooden one-room schoolhouse with a dark roof, featuring multiple windows and a single door. A group of about a dozen children and several adults are standing on the grassy lawn in front of the building. Handwritten cursive text is on the left side of the image. — Front — A group of children and a few adults standing outside a one-room schoolhouse with a handwritten message on the left.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Atlanta, Illinois — June 28, 1907
Sent From: Atlanta, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearl Byers, Carthage, Ills.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 100 miles (161 km)
Postage: One Cent, U.S. Franklin stamp
Card Details: Divided Back Era (Post Card Act of 1907), message written on front.

The back of a vintage postcard with — Back — Correspondence from Ruth to Miss Pearl Byers

Transcription

This is where I taught while I was a roof mite. Sorry – Ruth

Historical & Family Notes

This charming postcard, sent by “Ruth” to Pearl Byers, offers a vivid snapshot of early 20th-century rural education, depicting a classic one-room schoolhouse. Ruth’s message, “This is where I taught while I was a roof mite,” is a distinctive and intriguing phrase, likely a self-deprecating or affectionate reference to her youth or small stature during her time as a teacher. The photograph captures a group of children and adults, perhaps the students and their families, gathered outside the humble wooden structure.

Postmarked June 28, 1907, the card is an early example from the Divided Back era, which began just months prior with the Post Card Act of 1907 allowing messages on the address side. Despite the new format, Ruth chose to write her message on the front, a common practice during this transitional period as people adapted to the change. The stamp, featuring Benjamin Franklin, further roots the card in its historical context.

While this card does not directly mention Harvey Sights, it provides valuable insight into Pearl Byers’ social circle and the broader world she inhabited before her eventual marriage to Harvey. Correspondence like this from friends and family helps to paint a fuller picture of Pearl’s life experiences and connections during her youth in Carthage, Illinois.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Birthday, Family Correspondence, General Correspondence, Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #016: Birthday Greetings to Pearl from Quincy on Her Special Day

April 22, 2026 No Comments

Front — A colorized illustration of a woman in a floral hat featuring roses, with additional roses and the text “THE ROSE” and “BIRTHDAY GREETINGS.”

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Quincy, Ill. — December 4, 1907
Sent From: Quincy, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearl Byers, Carthage, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 33 miles
Postage: U.S. Postage One Cent (Benjamin Franklin green stamp)
Card Details: Divided Back era (message on left, address on right, introduced in the U.S. in March 1907)

The handwritten reverse side of a 1907 postcard with a one-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp postmarked — Back — Correspondence from Harvey Sights to Miss Pearl Byers

Transcription

Dec. 4 / 07 Dear Friend:- I suppose you know who this is from don’t you? Hope you have a happy birthday. As Ever. address H. L. Burling Gem City Business College. Quincy, Ill.

Historical & Family Notes

This charming birthday postcard marks Pearl Byers’ special day, December 4th, 1907, with a playful message from her future husband, Harvey Sights. Though he doesn’t explicitly sign his name, the teasing query, “I suppose you know who this is from don’t you?” is a clear indicator of a budding romance and familiarity. The sender provides the address for “H. L. Burling” at the Gem City Business College in Quincy, Illinois, likely where Harvey was studying or residing, using it as a return address for discretion in their early courtship.

The card itself features “The Rose,” a classic symbol of affection and beauty, perfectly chosen for a birthday greeting to a young woman. The postmark confirms it was sent from Quincy on Pearl’s actual birthday, suggesting a thoughtful and timely gesture. This card offers a sweet glimpse into the early stages of their relationship, highlighting the gentle humor and personal connection that would eventually lead to their marriage.

The reference to “H.L. Burling” at Gem City Business College offers a unique historical tidbit. Many young people, including those from rural areas, attended business colleges in larger towns like Quincy to acquire skills for office work. It’s plausible that Harvey was a student there, making this postcard a testament to both his personal affections and his efforts towards building a future.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, Flirtation, Novelty & Humor, Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #015: Mister Moon Watches Over a Budding Romance

April 21, 2026 No Comments

A hand-colored photo postcard depicting a couple from behind, walking arm-in-arm on a dirt path towards a body of water with a town on the far bank, under a dark sky with a large, yellow smiling full moon; text at the bottom reads — Front — A hand-colored photo postcard depicts a couple strolling under a smiling moon with a romantic song lyric.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Colmar, Illinois — March 1908
Sent From: Colmar, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearl B. Carthage Illinois
Distance Traveled: ~12 miles
Postage: U.S. Postage One Cent (green George Washington stamp)
Card Details: Divided Back, Photo Postcard, “Illustrated Song Serie No. 142B”, Printed in Germany, Photo only copyrighted 1907 by De Witt C. Wheeler, Lyrics by permission of The York Music Co., New York City.

The back of a postcard with handwritten cursive message on the left side and the address — Back — Correspondence from Harvey Sights to Miss Pearl B.

Transcription

Dear Pearl, How is it you never write to me any more? How are you getting along? I hope you are all well & getting along fine. We are all well. Mr. Sights is with us for a few days. He said to tell you he thinks you are pretty swell. I can tell you he is not a bad fellow in fact I think he is all right. I have just come over to see what kind of a good time you are having. I guess you are having a good time. Tell me what you are doing & how you are getting along. Tell me if you are looking for a young fellow who has a good time for you. What do you think of this, tell me how you think of this. Write to me as soon as you can. Your friend, Harvey Sights.

Historical & Family Notes

This postcard, sent in March 1908, offers a charming glimpse into the early courtship of Pearl Byers and Harvey Sights. The front features a romantic scene of a couple strolling under a smiling moon, accompanied by popular song lyrics of the era, “Everytime you go a strolling / With your lady love, / Mister moon is watching from above.” This sentimental imagery perfectly complements Harvey’s flirtatious message, highlighting the romantic ideals of the time.

Harvey’s message, though a bit playfully convoluted with the reference to “Mr. Sights is with us,” clearly conveys his personal admiration for Pearl. He pointedly asks, “Tell me if you are looking for a young fellow who has a good time for you. What do you think of this, tell me how you think of this,” indicating a direct and earnest pursuit of her affections. Such candid yet sweet overtures were a hallmark of early 20th-century communication, laying the groundwork for many lasting relationships.

This missive from Colmar to Carthage, a short distance across rural Illinois, marks a tender moment in Pearl and Harvey’s romantic journey. It underscores the importance of even small exchanges in fostering deep connections, foreshadowing their eventual marriage and the beginning of their family, including their daughter, Marnelle. The postcard serves as a beautiful testament to the blossoming love between them.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, Greeting Card, Harvey Sights Collection, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #014: 1909 New Year Greetings to Young Harvey Sights

April 20, 2026 No Comments

A vintage New Year's postcard for 1909, featuring the numbers — Front — A 1909 New Year greeting card featuring ornate numbers, pine branches, pine cones, and green shamrocks.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Cairo, Illinois — December 30, 1908
Sent From: Cairo, Illinois
Sent To: Harvey Sights La Harpe Ills
Distance Traveled: Approximately 280 miles
Postage: 1 Cent United States of America, Benjamin Franklin stamp
Card Details: Divided Back Era (1907-1915), “Made in Germany”

The divided back of a vintage postcard featuring a handwritten New Year's message to — Back — Correspondence from Aunt, Hattie, and Uncle Jo to Harvey Sights

Transcription

Happy new year to our dear Boy Harvey From Aunt Hattie and Uncle Jo Be good and that will bring you happiness Harvey Sights La Harpe Ills Made in Germany. Serie 75

Historical & Family Notes

This early New Year’s card provides a charming glimpse into Harvey Sights’ childhood, dating from December 1908, just before the turn of 1909. Addressed to “our dear Boy Harvey” from his Aunt, Hattie, and Uncle Jo, the message “Be good and that will bring you happiness” suggests he was still quite young, perhaps a pre-teen or early teenager, receiving guidance from his loving family members. This card predates his eventual courtship and marriage to Pearl Byers, offering a foundational look at his upbringing and family ties.

The postcard’s origin from “Made in Germany” highlights the significant role German printers played in the Golden Age of Postcards, known for their high-quality lithography and vibrant designs. Sent from Cairo, Illinois, in the southern tip of the state, to La Harpe in western Illinois, it demonstrates the widespread use of postcards for connecting families across distances, even relatively short ones, in the early 20th century.

This card is a valuable piece in understanding Harvey Sights’ family context before he embarked on his life with Pearl. It paints a picture of a well-loved young boy, receiving well wishes and gentle admonitions from his extended family, laying the groundwork for the man he would become.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, Novelty & Humor, Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #011: Get Busy, I Am Waiting For That Letter

April 17, 2026 No Comments

Front — A yellow “Telegraph Post-Card” with a graphic of a running messenger and a brief handwritten message.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Quincy, Illinois — Oct 26, 1907, 10 A.M.
Sent From: Quincy, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearle Byers, 318 N. Fayette St., Carthage, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 50 miles (80 km)
Postage: One Cent, Benjamin Franklin, green stamp
Card Details: Divided Back era (1907)

The back of a 1907 yellow postcard with a one-cent Benjamin Franklin stamp postmarked Quincy, Illinois, addressed to Miss Pearle Byers in Carthage, Illinois, with a handwritten message from Angus B. — Back — Correspondence from Angus B. to Miss Pearle Byers

Transcription

Nº31 Time Sent ____ Oct 27 1907 I am waiting for that letter get Busy M. S. POST CARD Write Message Here Say Pearle I was cer-tainly glad to hear from you. I shot the earth had swallowed you. You certainly sent me a dandy postal. Such I have never seen be-fore. Am well at present hope you are the same. Are hav-ing fine weather. Now Ans-wer soon. The same Old Chump Angus B.

Historical & Family Notes

This early postcard to Pearle Byers features an intriguing dual message. The front, formatted as a “Telegraph Post-Card,” bears a brief, direct note signed “M. S.” with the seemingly urgent instruction, “I am waiting for that letter get Busy.” The date “Oct 27 1907” is handwritten on the front, creating a slight anomaly as the card was postmarked from Quincy, Illinois, on October 26, 1907. This could indicate the handwritten date was a future reminder, or simply a discrepancy in dating.

The reverse side carries a longer, friendly message from “Angus B.,” clearly responding to a previous communication from Pearle: “I was cer-tainly glad to hear from you. I shot the earth had swallowed you. You certainly sent me a dandy postal.” The two distinct messages and signatures on one card suggest it might have been a collaborative effort, or that Angus included a note from a companion. Given that Harvey Sights is a primary character in Pearle’s life story, it is plausible that “M. S.” could be an initialed message from Harvey, possibly M. for a middle name or a playful alias, lending an early glimpse into their developing dynamic.

Angus’s sign-off as “The same Old Chump” adds a touch of affectionate familiarity, suggesting a close relationship, perhaps a cousin or family friend. The card’s early date places it firmly in the courtship period for Pearle, with various individuals sending her notes. The short, demanding “get Busy” from “M. S.” contrasts with Angus’s more jovial tone, hinting at the different relationships Pearle maintained.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, General Correspondence, Greeting Card, Romance & Courtship, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #009: Merry Christmas Lilies and a Skating P.M.

April 15, 2026 No Comments

A vintage Merry Christmas postcard featuring a vibrant central arrangement of pink lilies with prominent green stamens, surrounded by dark green holly leaves with red berries, and deep green pine needles. In the soft, blurred background, a winter landscape with a bare tree and distant snow-covered buildings is visible. The words — Front — An illustration of pink lilies, holly, and pine branches, with “Merry Christmas” script, superimposed on a faint winter landscape.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Quincy, Illinois — December 20, 1908
Sent From: Quincy, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearle Byers, Carthage, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Approximately 37 miles
Postage: 1 Cent U.S. stamp (Benjamin Franklin)
Card Details: Divided Back, “Printed in Germany”

The back of a vintage postcard with a postmark from Quincy, Illinois, dated December 20, 1908. A green one-cent Benjamin Franklin U.S. postage stamp is affixed in the upper right corner. The left half contains a handwritten cursive message in purple ink from — Back — Correspondence from Harvey Sights to Pearle Byers

Transcription

Dec. 20. 08 We were all down to illard Fri. night We were about 30 there. Hello Sis. Wish I had a fine time. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! How are you? Why in the world dont you write. This was received today. I was skating this P.M. Verna said you never answered her card and so did Bertha. No news around here. There is a Xmas tree in room. How come. And soon. Your true friend Harvey

Historical & Family Notes

This festive Christmas postcard from December 1908 catches Harvey Sights playfully chiding Pearl Byers for her lack of correspondence. His query, “Why in the world don’t you write,” hints at a burgeoning flirtation and the desire for more frequent communication during their early courtship phase. He shares snippets of his life, mentioning a social gathering and an afternoon of skating, painting a picture of typical Midwestern winter activities.

The reference to Verna and Bertha, likely mutual friends or relatives, suggests a shared social circle and adds a layer of community to their interactions, further binding Pearl and Harvey together within their small-town world. The mention of a “Xmas tree in room” and “How come. And soon.” leaves a hint of anticipation, perhaps for a future meeting or further holiday tidings.

This card captures a tender moment in their relationship, framed by the holiday season and the charming impatience of a suitor eager for a response. It’s a sweet, authentic glimpse into the early stages of the connection that would eventually lead to their marriage and the birth of their daughter, Marnelle.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Birthday, General Correspondence, Local Mail, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #008: Bird Family Birthday Greetings to Pearl

April 14, 2026 No Comments

Vintage postcard illustration of a rustic nature scene featuring five red-breasted robins perched on a weathered stone wall, with a quaint cottage and lush green trees in the background under a warm, gradient sky. The phrase — Front — An illustration of a bird family gathered on a stone wall in a country setting with a house and trees, wishing “Birthday Greetings”.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Carthage, Illinois — December 4, 1908
Sent From: Carthage, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearl Byers, Carthage, Ill.
Distance Traveled: Local delivery (within Carthage, Illinois)
Postage: 1-cent US Postage (Benjamin Franklin)
Card Details: Divided Back era (1907-Present)

The back of a vintage postcard with a green 1-cent Benjamin Franklin postage stamp postmarked — Back — Correspondence from Dora C. to Miss Pearl Byers

Transcription

Dear Pearl. I wish you many, many happy Birthdays Dora C. Miss Pearl Byers Carthage Ill. Dec. 4. 1908.

Historical & Family Notes

This charming postcard marks a special day, as it was sent to Pearl Byers on her exact birthday, December 4, 1908. The sender, identified as Dora C., extended warm wishes for “many, many happy Birthdays,” a sentiment that was delivered locally within Carthage, Illinois.

The card serves as a delightful record of Pearl’s social connections and the customary practice of sending celebratory postcards, even for local greetings. It highlights the importance of marking personal milestones through tangible correspondence, a cherished tradition in the early 20th century.

Establishing Pearl’s precise birthday through this card provides valuable archival data, anchoring future biographical details within the collection. It allows us to connect the dots in her timeline and understand the personal touches that adorned her life before her marriage to Harvey Sights.

Golden Age (1900–1915), 1900s, Family Correspondence, Greeting Card, Local Mail, Sent From: Illinois

Postcard #007: Birthday Greetings to Pearle Byer from Elva J. Sights

April 13, 2026 No Comments

Vintage postcard illustration featuring five small brown birds perched on white branches against a bright yellow and green forest background, surrounded by a decorative white and yellow border, with 'Birthday Greetings' text on a solid green background bordered by purple flowers. — Front — A serene green-bordered scene featuring five birds on tree branches against a bright yellow and green forest background with ‘Birthday Greetings’ text.

Postcard Metadata

Postmarked: Carthage, Illinois — December 4, 1909
Sent From: Carthage, Illinois
Sent To: Miss Pearle Byer, Carthage, Illinois
Distance Traveled: 0 miles
Postage: U.S. POSTAGE ONE CENT, green George Washington stamp
Card Details: Divided Back, Printed in Germany

Back of a vintage postcard with a green one-cent George Washington stamp and a round postmark, handwritten cursive address to Miss Pearle Byer in Carthage, Illinois, and a handwritten message dated Dec 4, 1909, from Elva J. S. on a light brown divided back. — Back — Correspondence from Elva J. Sights to Pearle Byer

Transcription

Dec 4, 1909 Better late than never. Your Cog. J. Elva J. S.

Historical & Family Notes

This charming postcard, dated and postmarked on December 4, 1909, delivers a direct birthday greeting to Pearle Byer, the future wife of Harvey Sights. The sender, “Elva J. S.”, can be identified as Elva J. Sights, given the distinctive cursive capital ‘S’ that mimics an ‘L’, consistent with the Sights family record’s unique handwriting characteristics. The card likely signifies a close familial or social bond already present between Pearle and the Sights family network even before her marriage to Harvey.

The message, “Better late than never,” playfully implies a slight delay in sending the birthday wishes, yet the postcard was postmarked on Pearle’s actual birthday, December 4th. This suggests Elva may have intended for it to arrive earlier, but ensured it was mailed on the day itself, perhaps for a local delivery in Carthage, Illinois. The card, with its cheerful birds amidst a vibrant natural scene, reflects a popular aesthetic for sentimental greetings of the era.

Printed in Germany, this postcard illustrates the global reach of printed goods at the turn of the 20th century, bringing a touch of international craft to the heartland of Illinois. As an early artifact in the WhenMyTanWearsOut.com collection, it offers a sweet glimpse into Pearle’s social connections and her developing role within the Sights family’s circle, long before her eventual marriage to Harvey Sights.