Have you ever gotten a postcard from someone?  Did you know the earliest postcard dates back 177 years to 1840 when an English man named Theodore Hook sent one to himself as a bit of joke?   Postcards started out as something different to what you are accustomed to seeing and have had an interesting history.

Writing and sending a postcard involves a few more steps than typing a text message or email. A postcard shows that you put time and energy into doing something nice for someone you care about.  Back in the late 1800s and early 1900s, everyone was sending postcards. Not only did postcards serve as an easy way to communicate with someone, but they were also fun to collect.

Modern life demands a lot from us, and as a result, things can be hectic and stressful. Making a postcard can help you take a break from stress that’s affecting you.  Don’t worry about your skills as an artist, just give it a go because 45 minutes of creativity reduces stress.  By sitting down and designing a card, you can focus your attention on something positive.  

Nowadays, the average household receives only one personal letter every 7 weeks. So, when something arrives through the snail mail, it comes as a very pleasant surprise.  Imagine the happy smiles that come from receiving a postcard in the mail.  It is unexpected.  Also, if you send someone a postcard, there’s a good chance that they might send one back to you eventually. As a result, both of you end up benefiting from something that started as a simple, kind-hearted gesture.

Why not make your own postcard to send to a friend or family member? Click on the picture to find a template you can print and create your own original artwork. We hope you enjoy this activity, if you would like us to share your postcards on our website and Facebook, send a picture of them to heritage@therockfieldcentre.org.uk 

This project was funded by Heritage Lottery