Vintage Valentine Museum

Love is in the HAIR at the Beauty Salon! Hairstylists and Barber Shop Themes

2012-02-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

You're FAIR enough! But I hope you're getting WARMER in your affections towards me, my Valentine.
circa 1940s
mechanical

I like your STYLE! CUT it short -- Let's be Valentines.

3 1/2" x 7"
circa 1960s
made in USA

You Make My Heart Swim! At the Beach and Swimsuits

2012-01-31T12:43:00.000-08:00

You can hang on to me for life!

3 7/8" x 6 1/2"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Flat with removable life preserver
unknown artist

My Valentine Are these your knickers? No; they're Teddies, smarty.

7 3/8" x 7 1/2"
circa 1920s
Mechanical Flat
Woman in fluffy bathing cap stands behind a parasol
made in Germany

Toy Boats - Floating to You!

2012-01-25T14:21:00.000-08:00

To My Valentine ~ When we play together The times goes, oh, so fast Let me be your Valentine My love will always last.

3" x 7" (flat)
dated 1940
Standing Fold-Out
By C Co (Could be Carrington)
marked: 500 V-O

To my Valentine ~ When you see This little boat Sailing straight your way You'll know it is For somebody To you my Valentine.

4" x 2 7/8" (4" x 5 3/4" opened)
circa 1920s, 1930s
made in Germany
single-fold

Gum - I CHEWS You for My Valentine!

2012-01-22T13:36:00.000-08:00

I Chew Bubble Gum - And Also CHEWS You - Valentine.

2 1/4" x 4 1/2"
circa 1950s
Flat

I'm BUBBLING over with love, by GUM - My Valentine.

2 1/2" x 4 5/8"
circa 1950s
Flat

With every CHEW I think of You My Valentine.

2 3/8" x 4 1/2"
circa 1950s
Flat

Bubbling Over with Love - Blowing Soap Bubbles

2012-01-13T15:57:00.000-08:00

A Message of Love.

2 1/8" x 4 1/8"
circa 1900s, 1910s
mechanical flat
marked 'Germany'

Victorian boy blowing bubbles with a bubble pipe

I cannot put my thoughts in print, I simply give this little hint ~ I want you for my Valentine.

4 1/8" x 4" (4 1/8" x 8 5/8" opened)
circa 1910s, 1920s
single fold
made in USA

Bear with Me, Valentine! Bears and Teddy Bears on Valentine Cards

2012-01-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

To My Love Bear me in mind my Valentine.

4 1/4" x 4"
1910s, 1920s
Standing Mechanical

I BEAR you these Tidings.

5 3/8" x 4 3/4"
circa 1930s
Mechanical Flat

I'd sure toot my horn if you were my Valentine!

3 1/4" x 5 1/4"
circa 1930s
Flat

Come clean and be my Valentine.

3" x 5 3/4"
circa 1930s
Bear in a Tub
Mechanical

Say, Valentine! Are we ROMANCE-BOUND ~ Or have you got me on a MERRY-GO-ROUND?

4 1/8" x 4 7/8"
1950s
French-Fold
made in USA
by Gibson
A Gibson Smile Card
marked: 10 V 84041

It was love at first glance When I saw you ~ Say! How do you feel about me? I'd like you for my valentine!

4" x 5" (5" x 8" opened)
1930s
French fold
made in USA
by Carrington
'A' in tree logo

Love, the Magician - Magic

2012-01-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

You HYPNOTIZE me! Be My Valentine.

2 1/4" x 6"
1950s
Flat
made in USA

Valentine Greetings ~ I don't need MAGIC to know that I want you for my Valentine!

4 1/2" x 2 5/8" (4 1/2" x 5 1/4" opened)
circa 1950s
single fold
by A-Meri-Card
marked P-4569

My Valentine I wish I knew some MAGIC way To find You in my HeArT today.

2 5/8" x 4 1/2"
1930s, 1940s
by Doubl-Glo
Flat
made in USA

Post Office, Mailman

2012-01-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

A Special Valentine for Someone Special.

6 5/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1950s
Standing Fold-Out
made in USA
by A-Meri-Card
marked: P-131

WRITE before my eyes - From Me - Be My Valentine.

5" x 3 1/2" flat
circa 1930s
Standing Fold-Out

Say, Valentine...Wouldn't you like a little MALE!

4" x 3"
circa 1940s
Flat
made in USA

To My Valentine It would take a thousand postmen ten thousand years to convey half of my sentiments to you
Flat

To My Valentine
Flat

Valentine, You Melt My Heart - Snow and Winter Themes

2011-11-15T14:10:00.000-08:00

Love is not a victory march, its a cold and its a broken hallelujah
- Leonard Cohen

Valentine You're as cold to me As a winter's day But if you'll only let me - I'll dig the snow away.

4 1/4" x 5"
circa 1930s, 1940s
Fold-out
made in USA

Hike off with me and be my Valentine.

4 1/4" x 5" (flat)
circa 1930s, 1940s
Standing Fold-Out
made in USA

Its SNOW USE It'll be a cold cold world If you won't Be My Valentine.

3 7/8" x 3 3/8" (3 7/8" x 6 5/8" opened)
dated 1937
single fold

Valentine Greetings ~ If valentine wishes were measured or weighed, Then this card of mine wouldn't do; I'd have to send them by Parcel post, Or they'd never get to you.

5 5/8" x 3 5/8"
dated 1920
Standing Fold-Out

Don't be so cold my Valentine.

5" x 4" flat
circa 1920s, 1930s
Standing Fold-Out
made in USA

Artist - Frances Brundage

2011-11-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

I am rather shy, dear, or I might say something quite nice to you today You may have my heart and all that's in it if you'll give me yours this very minute.

5 3/4" x 4 1/4"
dated 1928
Made in Germany

Frances Brundage (1854-1937) is, along with Charles Twelvetrees, an especially prolific valentine artist. The daughter of an artist, Rembrandt Lockwood, she learned to draw at an early age. While many of her postcards are signed, the majority of her work on valentines is not.

May Love's sweet music make bright each day, And Love's fair blossoms bestrew thy way.

7 3/8" x 6 3/4"
circa 1900s-1910
Flat
for Raphael Tuck
Knitting Dutch Woman Walks Alongside a Duck

She began working for Raphael Tuck around 1900. It is her creations for Tuck that many collectors are especially interested in. Favorite subjects include children and ethnic or cultural figures. While she was well known for her depictions of African-Americans and the Dutch, to today's viewers these portrayals will largely seem stereotypical and caricatured. They were, however, in keeping with the attitudes of her day.

A Loving Greeting

5 3/8" x 5 1/2"
circa 1910s
Made in Germany
Embossed Detailing

Girl in Victorian clothing with prancing Cupid
Stand on Back

Around 1910 she began working for Samuel Gabriel and went on to work for a number of other companies (see bottom of entry for a list of those companies). In addition to valentines and postcards, she illustrated many books and various other items including calendars, paper and cloth dolls, advertisements and more.

To my Loved One ~ Oh you it is, this heart of mine So fondly greets, my Valentine.

7 3/8" x 6 3/4"
circa 1900s-1910
Package opens to reveal dimensional layers of flower scrap and a paper puff
for Raphael Tuck
Brundage made several cards with the same style 3-d effect as the package that opens on this card. However, at least one of these style cards is thought to be the work of Katharine Gassaway rather than Brundage (click to see our Katharine Gassaway page).

To identify her work, pay close attention to the faces of the figures. Her eyes tend to be large and expressive. Facial features can look wry and a bit mischievous, seeming to give knowing looks to viewers. Its this way her characters engage the viewer, like they are sharing a secret, that compels so many to collect her art.

Some of her more demure figures, however, can be hard to distinguish from the work of Ellen Clapsaddle. Here is where paying attention to the artist-signed postcard images of both of these artists can be helpful. Specific characters or details used on signed postcards can often be found on unsigned die-cut or folder-style cards, helping to distinguish who proper credit belongs to.

My Valentine I'll STAKE my heart on you.

3 3/4" x 6 1/2"
dated 1928
Mechanical with Easel Stand
Butcher with T-Bone Steak on Butcher block
made in USA

Why don't you give me a ring?

3 3/4" x 6 1/2"
circa 1920s
Mechanical with Easel Stand
Girl with Candle-Stick Telephone
made in USA

Most of her pieces will date from the mid-1900s to the mid-1920s though some may be a little earlier or a little later. The cards are chromolithographs and are usually quite detailed and enhanced with embossing.

To My Valentine

12 5/8" x 7"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Embossed Detailing
Brundage created several of the jointed hanging figures
Pull the string to make the figure's limbs move

Brundage begun her professional career at the age of 17 and continued steadily late into her life producing a large volume of items for collectors and admirers to swoon over. Be sure to check back every now and then as we have a number of valentine cards by this fabulous artist yet to be photographed and cataloged so we can share them with you.

As often as I think of you My heart is all a flutter I'm looking for a little cook to get me bread and butter.

6 3/8" x 6 7/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Embossed Detailing
These two figures can also be seen in the folder-style card below

To My Valentine ~ Let's meet to-night-just you and I In a quiet spot where none can see, And I'll tell you the secret why - Your Valentine I want to be.

4" x 4" (8" x 4" opened)
circa 1910s, 1920s
Made in Germany
Embossed Detailing

A surprise for you my Valentine

5" x 5 5/8"
circa 1920s, poss earlier
flat, die-cut card

hand and foot missing on figure on the right
made in Saxony

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Companies that Brundage worked for:

Raphael Tuck
Sam Gabriel
Saalfied
Stetcher
DeWolfe
Fisk and Co
Fred A Stokes
Charles E Graham and Co
E P Dutton
Hayes Co

Accordion to me - You are my Love!

2011-11-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

To My Dear One - I make-a da song I sing-a my bes'! Mebbe you be My Valentine - yes?

3 1/2" x 6 1/2"
dated 1936
Standing Fold-Out
made in USA

My heart is in TUNE with yours My Valentine.

3 1/8" x 4"
circa 1950s
made in USA
mechanical flat
by A-Meri-Card
marked: P 204

ACCORDION to my way of thinking - you should be my Valentine!

5 1/8" x 6 1/2"
1940s
marked: Litho in USA

Possible Part of Series
Mechanical Flat

I'll sing your praises night and day - Because I think you are Okay!

7 1/4" x 4 1/2" flat
dated 1944
Standing Fold Out

You're No BUNNY til some BUNNY loves You

2011-10-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

EAR'S HOPIN', Valentine! You'll be my HONEY-BUNNY!

3 3/4" x 4 3/4"
circa 1950s, 1960s
Rabbit in Top Hat
Flat

My Valentine Give me a place in your heart.

4 1/8" x 4 1/8"
circa 1930s
Standing Pop-Up

No DANGER in being My Valentine!

Rabbit with Whistle and Signal Lamp

3 1/8" x 5"
circa 1930s/1940s

Mechanical Card
by Carrington
'A' in Tree Logo

Let's be Valentines Gee, I sure am hoping that this will HIT THE SPOT so's you'll be Valentines with me 'cause I like YOU a lot!

5 1/2" x 6 1/2"
circa 1950s
made in USA

I'm a timid little thing ~ Soft and cuddly too ~ Wrapped up in my rabbit skin How I'd cling to you!
Odd bunny with Rolling Eyes and weird Helmet
mechanical
made in USA

More Food - Page 2

2011-10-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

This is no BALONEY. You're my One and Only ~ Valentine.

mechanical
made in USA

marked U-715-1

A-Meri-Card
made in USA

You Can Cook up all My Sweets Valentine.

2 3/8" x 5"
circa 1940s, 1950s
made in USA

I'm Gonna POP the Question ~ ~ Will You be my Valentine?
circa 1950s, 1960s
made in USA

A Date with you is like a Cake ~ Sweet to have but Hard to Make My Valentine!

2 7/8" x 4" (8" open)
circa 1930s/1940s
single fold

For my Valentine
My heart is yours my Valentine.

4 5/8" x 3" (4 5/8" x 6" opened)
circa 1920s/1930s
made in USA

Just SODA You'll Know YOU'RE MY VALENTINE!

2 7/8" x 4 3/8"
circa 1940s/1950s

HOT DOG I'd RELISH having you for my Valentine!

circa 1950s, 1960s

A Peachy Idea... Be My Valentine.

3 3/8" x 4 3/4"
1930s
Flat
made in USA

More Food Themes

Page 1 of Vintage Valentines with Food Themes

Anthropomorphized Food

More Cats

2011-10-23T07:19:00.000-07:00

My FURst Appeal Be My Valentine.

8" x 2" flat (about 4" tall when assembled)
circa 1930s
Standing Fold to Assemble Card

My Valentine A jig-saw puzzle's lots of fun, When two hearts beat just like one.

made in USA

To My Valentine

5 1/4" x 3 3/8"
German Made

You Look Sweet Enough to Eat! Please be my Valentine!

11" tall (with extended neck) x 5 3/4"
dated 1950
made in USA

Do you get my DRIFT...?...I want you for my Valentine.

3 1/4" x 3 7/8"
dated 1939
made in USA

To One I Love.
circa 1930s
mechanical
Eyes Move

My Valentine ~ Love's Old Sweet Song

4 5/8" x 3 5/8"
circa 1920s, 1930s
Flat with Folded Detail

It will RING my heart if you refuse to be My Valentine

3" x 5 3/8"
circa 1920s, 1930s
Mechanical Flat

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Back to Page 1 of Vintage Valentine Cats

In the Key of Love - Pianos

2011-08-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Same old REFRAIN from me to you - Be My Valentine

3 1/2" x 3 5/8"
circa 1950s
Flat
made in USA
by A-Meri-Card
marked: X-4544

I feel SO-LO I'm so alone ~ Let's make a DUET So I can call you my own!

4 1/8" x 3 1/8" (3 1/8" x 7 1/4" opened)
circa 1930s, 1940s
Modified French Fold

You are my Love Song ~ I Love You.

mechanical card
circa 1930s

I feel GRAND because I'm KEYED up to be your Valentine.

4 3/8" x 5 5/8" flat
dated 1940
Fold-Out
made in USA

Sports - Ice Skating

2011-08-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

For My Valentine ~ In Cupid's Thrall! Mercy Me! Am I in love? Do tell me what's the matter. Every time I look at you My heart goes pitter-patter.

4" x 5" (8" x 5" opened)
circa 1920s, 1930s
Single Fold
by Whitney-Made

Let's Monkey Around My Love!

2011-07-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

Don't MONKEY with this heart of mine Say you'll be My Valentine.

3 1/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1920s, 1930s
Flat
marked: made in USA

We'll have a CIRCUS of fun if you'll ACTcept me for your Valentine.

4 1/4" x 4 5/8"
circa 1940s

Monkey on a Unicycle while Kids and a Duck Look on
made in USA
mechanical flat
by C Co
marked: P-514

To my Valentine I'm herewith sending my heart to you, special delivery P.D.Q.

Monkey riding a Bicycle
unmarked Charles Twelvetrees
made in USA

Meaning no MONKEY SHINES Valentine I offer you choice of peach or vanilla and that oughta prove I ain't no GORILLA!

Monkey in Outfit with Ice Cream Cones

circa 1930s

made in USA

I'm not MONKEYING around! Honest, it's true the best Valentine I've ever found is no one but You!

Monkeys play - One wears a Fez

circa 1930s, 1940s

Artist/Maker - Esther Howland

2011-07-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Cupid
~
His wing is the fan of a lady.
His foot's an invisible thing;
And his arrow is tipped with a jewel,
And shot from a silver string.

1 5/8" x 2 3/4"
circa 1870s
marked Howland
small printed verse for use in a valentine

Wafer-Style Decorations on Paper Lace.

3 5/8" x 2 7/8"
circa 1850s/1860s
Paper Lace is by Berlin and Jones
pasted in verse is marked Howland

Thou are beautiful, young lady
But I need not tell you this,
For few have borne unconsciously
The spell of loveliness.

Esther Howland is often credited as the first US manufacturer of valentines. This is not quite true as there were others making valentines, including commercial efforts like Elton & Co and T. W. Strong both of NY, that predate her 1849 beginnings. Those companies' valentine endeavors date to 1833 and 1842, respectively. She was,however, the first to make the English-style romantic, hand-decorated cards in a large commercial quantity and probably the first to achieve such an astounding initial success as a valentine maker.

Her cards were put together with paper lace and decorations bought from Europe and competed commercially with imported cards, like the one that first piqued her interest in valentines. That card was sent from England to her father's stationary shop in Worcester, Mass., S. A. Howland and Sons, the same year that Ms. Howland graduated from Mount Holyoke College. Her cards were an instant success, selling around $5000 worth of orders, quite a sum in the 1840s.

While she isn't truly the first US valentine maker, she does have many innovations to her credit. The most important was her assembly-line style of manufacturing which she employed long before Henry Ford did. Her other achievements are related more directly to the cards themselves, including creating the wafer-style colored paper backing that can be seen through the paper lace, as employed in our cards. She also dreamed-up accordion-folded paper 'springs' to create layers and add depth to her creations and was the first to paste verses on the inside of the card (she disliked the look of writing on the card face). Using dies to cut the paper decorations used in her cards was another of her ideas.

Wafer-style decorations on the back-side of paper lace; Victorian scraps attached to the front-side of the lace with colored paper set behind the lace layer.

3 5/8" x 2 7/8"
circa 1870s
Paper Lace is by Wood
back is marked: N. E. V. Co. 5

Most of her cards are believed to have been marked, however not all were. A red letter 'H' was often stamped on the card back. Another style of marking was a small white heart with an 'H' stamped in the center which was pasted on the back. Some later cards bear the New England Valentine Co mark (N.E.V.Co.) she began using in the 1870s. Our example does not bear a red 'H' and has a paper lace front with a Berlin and Jones mark on it. That company was based in New York and eventually bought up in 1869 by George C. Whitney and Co who also purchased Ms. Howland's N.E.V.Co sometime before 1881.

Berlin and Jones is a company Howland is known to have worked with (as well as Taft, another Worcester valentine maker). When Howland utilized 'blanks' purchased from other makers they often had that maker's mark (seen in the left side margin of the front in both of our examples), often in addition to her own. So cards may have more than one mark, or occasionaly, none at all. Then it can often still be identified as the work of Ms. Howland by looking for other markers like the presence of her 'wafer' decorations or pasted in verse.

There is also a booklet of verses, The New England Valentine Co.'s Valentine Verse Book for 1879, that was sent to sellers of her valentines. It contained verses printed in red, green, gold and blue and were intended for the buyer who may find a card they like but with a verse that was not suitable. A more appropriate verse could be chosen from the book, cut out and then pasted over the original one appearing in the card.

After selling her business to the George C. Whitney Co., Ms. Howland cared for her ailing father until his death in 1882. After his passing, she moved on to Quincy to be with her brother Charles. There she died on March 15, 1904. Much hay has been made of Ms. Howland's 'spinster' status noting the irony of someone who made their name in creating tokens of love remaining unmarried. In my research I've found nothing speaking of her private life beyond her devotion to her father. Any affairs of the heart Ms. Howland may or may not have had remain a mystery.

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SOURCES:

Ruth Webb Lee - A History of Valentines
Charles Nutt - History of Worcester and Its People
Ernest Dudley Chase - The Romance of Greeting Cards
Katherine Kreider - Valentines with Values
Barbara Johnson, Ph. D. - Valentines A Collector's Guide 1700s - 1950s
Robert Brenner - Valentine Treasury A Century of Valentine Cards

Love on the Rocks - Geologists Radiating Passion and Romancing the Stone

2011-05-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

Valentine What are my PROSPECTS Yes ORE No?

3 7/8" x 1 3/4"
circa 1960s
Flat
marked:751/4

Geology or prospecting themes on valentine cards are very unusual. This one includes a Geiger or Geiger-Müller counter.

Cannibals - You are a Splendid Dish (served with a Nice Chianti)

2011-05-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

I'm all in a stew My heart is all a twitter ~ Just yearning for you! Be my Valentine or it looks like my goose is cooked!

3 1/4" x 4 3/4" (4 3/4" x 7 3/8" opened)
circa 1940s

French-Fold
by Doubl-Glo

Marked: P 6702-1
Made in USA

You sure SUIT MY TASTE - My Valentine!

3 5/8" x 2 1/2"
circa 1940s

Flat

Marked: Made in USA

In a Situation like this ~ TWO HEADS are better than ONE. P.S. Let's get together Valentine!

3 1/4" x 4 1/4" (3 1/4" x 7 1/4" opened)
circa 1940s

Modified French-Fold

Marked: Made in USA

Riveted Cards that served as Wall Decorations

2011-02-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

No Text.

5 1/2" x 5"
circa 1900s
Hanging Wall Decoration

Woman in Classical Garb
Parchment layer Riveted onto Heavy Card
Unmarked

With Fond Remembrance.

8 3/4" x 5"
circa 1900s
Hanging Wall Decoration

Woman with Daisy

Parchment layer Riveted onto Top Heart
unmarked

The McLoughlin Brothers, a London-based company (1848-1950) that also had a New York City office, popularized these riveted valentine cards that could be used as home decor. The layers, attached onto heavy backing board, were parchment or celluloid or a mix of the two. They were adhered in a way to ruffle or puff out thus creating a 3-d effect.

It is common for the ribbons of these hanging cards to deteriorate while the card itself remains quite intact . The heavy backing boards at the base of the card are often decorated with chromolithographic scraps. Our two examples above both have scraps that feature women in classical garb, evoking a romantic notion of the past.

Wooden Shoe Be Mine? Dutch Themes

2011-02-06T11:57:00.000-08:00

I'd be in DUTCH if I didn't ask you to be my Valentine.

6 1/4" x 7 3/8"
circa 1940s, 1950s
Flat
marked: 776/7
made in USA

Two Lips (Tulips) for you Valentine.

2 7/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1930s
Flat

Girl in Wooden Shoes with tulips

Part of a series of cards of figures posed in front of a painting set on an artist's easel
marked: made in Germany

For my Valentine ~ Dutch kiddies look cute, but very queer So I prefer those over here For they are just as sweet - and fine As any foreign Valentine.

2 5/8" x 3 7/8" (3 7/8" x 5 1/4" opened)
circa 1920s, 1930s
Single Fold

Pair in Wooden Shoes with Windmill in Background

Girl with doll
marked: made in USA
Carrington ('A' in tree logo)
H (in a circle) 5009

Be My Valentine ~ Though clouded the sky and storm does whine, In my heart shines love for my Valentine.

9" x 7 5/8"
circa early 1900s
by Ellen Clapsaddle
The same figures appearing on this die-cut card can be found on postcards

Card has easel stand on the back the bottom of which is seen above under the heart at their feet.

Your DUTCH TREAT Valentine ~ Right hand - Left hand Which do you choose? I'll take both, please ~ Then I won't lose. From your DUTCH TREAT Valentine.

4 1/4" x 3 1/2"
Made in USA
circa 1930s

It beats the DUTCH how much I love you!

circa 1930s/1940s

Be My Valentine.

tent-style stand-up
circa 1920s

You can have my TU-LIPS

Figure in wooden shoes and winged cap

Chloe Preston - Page 2

2011-02-03T10:35:00.000-08:00

Why dan't someone ask someone to be My Valentine.

9 5/8" 7 7/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
"dan't" is not a typo, it is the word used
Figure in a tree with lanterns above a Couple

Valentine Greetings ~ To My Valentine In these Blue Forget-Me-Nots, In these Roses too, Read the message Fond and True From my Faithful Heart to you.

5 1/4" x 4 7/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl and Dog at Fountain

To My Valentine There may other smiles as sweet And other eyes that brightly shine But none for me can ever be So bright so sweet so dear as thine.

5" x 4 1/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl with heart by Paper-puff Pillar

To my Valentine In these Blue Forget-Me-Nots, In these Roses too, Read the message Fond and True From my Faithful Heart to you.

7 1/4" x 7 1/4"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Couple with Umbrellas

Kind and Tender, Fond and True I will always be to you.

8 1/4" x 6 3/4"
dated 1924
Tunnel of Love

To My Valentine. This little card I Send to you, To tell you I Continue true.

4 3/4" x 2 1/2" x 1 3/4"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl with Doll in Front of Fireplace

To My Valentine My heart is red Your eyes are blue My love for you Sweet and True.

9 7/8" x 7 3/4"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Smoking Man in the Moon with Couple and Dog and Cat below

Preston's cards are made in Germany and feature embossing. Small tags of text are frequently attached to the paper-puff. Figures are often accompanied by distinctive cats and dogs. Her birds are also very characteristic and are regularly included in the rich detailing she creates in her scenes.

You'll find some of the same figures repeated in pull-downs and as walker cards. Most of the cards I've found that have been hand-dated or in date-stamped envelopes bear dates from the 1920s, with a few from the late 1910s. As noted on page 1 of Cloe Preston, her cards never bear her signature so they can only be identified via her style of illustration and the type of cards she was fond of creating.

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Click to go to Page 1 Of Chloe Preston Valentine's Day Cards

My Love is Found South of the Border

2011-01-24T17:28:00.000-08:00

I'd rather see you than SIESTA! Be mine! Please?

2 1/8" x 4 1/2"
circa 1950s
Flat
Made in USA

You're My FRUIT of Love!

2 1/4" x 4 1/2"
circa 1950s
Flat

There's nothing CHILI about me - Be my Valentine.

circa 1950s
A-MERI-CARD

I can't keep it under my SOMBRERO ANY LONGER ~ YOU'RE my Valentine.

circa 1950s
made in USA

I'll be stubborn.

folding stand-up card

Come and Get it Love to my Valentine

5 3/4" x 2 3/4"
circa 1940s
Flat
Marked: Made in USA

CHLOE PRESTON - Master of Intricate Honeycombed Cards

2011-01-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

To One I Love.

3 7/8" x 3"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Children and an Elephant
Standing, 2 Layered Card

To My Sweetheart ~ Just these few words from me, Wherever thou may be, Forget-me-not.

3 3/8" x 2 1/4" x 6"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl in Hat with Flowers
Pull-Down

To My Valentine May this give a pledge to thee and speak in silence from me.

9 5/8" x 8 1/2"
In envelope dated 1908
Figures with Inkwell
Letters and Cat
honeycomb stand-up

by Chloe Preston

To My Valentine ~ 'Tis my delight to bring you this within its folds you'll find a kiss.

7 1/8" x 6 1/2"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Figures with Perfume Atomizer
Honeycomb Stand Up
Made in Germany

Forget me not I ask of Thee, Reserve one spot your heart for me.

4 3/4" x 5"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Figure playing Lute while another holds a teddy bear
and watches from the window
honeycomb stand-up

To My Valentine May this give a pledge to thee and speak in silence from me.

4 1/2" x 7 1/3"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Two figure with Blazing Hearts
and Flowers in an Urn
honeycomb stand-up

To My Valentine.

4 1/2" x 7 1/3"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl in Bonnet with Doll
and Basket of Hearts
mechanical flat card
Head and Eyes Move
by Chloe Preston

To One I Love.

4" x 3 1/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl in Striped Dress with
Umbrella and Basket of Hearts
Feet on Wheel to Walk
by Chloe Preston

To My Valentine.

4" x 3 1/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Figure with Hat, Umbrella, Basket of Hearts
and Duck in Pocket
Walking Feet on Wheel
by Chloe Preston

To My Valentine.

4 1/4" x 2 5/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl in Flowered Dress with Clown on String
Walking Feet
by Chloe Preston

To My Sweetheart.

6 1/4" x 4 1/2"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Girl in Flowered Bonnet with
Cone of Hearts
Walking Feet
by Chloe Preston
These walking valentines feature chubby characters with big eyes and wide faces. The multiple feet are on round discs that turn. The figures are very detailed and feature wonderful colors and embossing.

To my Valentine.

6" x 8 1/2"
circa 1920s
by Chloe Preston
part of a series of walking cards
mechanical flat

Valentine Greetings.

2 7/8" x 4 7/8"
circa 1920s

Above Identified as by Cloe Preston on p 66 of Brenner's Valentine Treasury

a less typical example of her work

We can't yet be 100% positive, but we are reasonably convinced that this is the work of Chloe Preston (b 1887 - d 1969). While the English artist is best known for her Chunkies and Peek-A-Boo characters, she also created many valentines dating largely to the 1910s or so (WWI era). It is difficult to be very precise when discussing her valentines as they are not signed by her, making identification a challenge.

Her valentine figures tend to have large round eyes with many lashes, like these do. She also did considerable work incorporating red honeycomb or paper-puff on free-standing cards.

This one features a fireman theme, with a house ablaze and girl to be rescued. Crows fly above the red shingled roof. One of the birds is holding a heart in its beak. The fire fighters wear black helmets with red hearts adorning the front. While one raises a ladder to the window, the other mans a leaky hose. Flowerpots fall from the balcony as an unused blue bucket sits below. It is a very active scene.

Despite the obvious damage (mainly to the upper bit of paper-puff), the beauty of this card remains. The detailing is fabulous, with much care paid not just to the figures, but to their surroundings as well.

The card stands 9 1/2" tall, 7" wide and about 4" deep. Its only marking notes that it was made in Germany. A faucet and note stand in the lower bit of paper-puff. The message on the note reads:

To my Valentine
This little card
I send to you
To tell you I
Continue true.

The flames are die-cut with yellow backing paper, adding a lovely glow to them as light peeks through.

Even if we were to find this was not the work of Ms. Preston, it was clearly created by a talented artist. This has become one of my favorites in my collection - now if only I could get a bit more repair done to that paper-puff.

*********************************************************************************
Click here to see more Cards by Chloe Preston

Don't be Chicken my little Love Bird!

2011-01-15T10:35:00.000-08:00

Just HUMMING around to be your Valentine ~ I've gone DAFFY over you hope you'll learn to like me too.

2 5/8" x 5 1/8"
circa 1930s

Hummingbird and Daffodil
Mechanical Flat

Owly eyes are telling mine you will be my Valentine

5 7/8" x 4 7/8"
dated 1936
flat

A Pair of Owls Cuddle on a Branch
marked: Made in USA

You're the bird for me Valentine.

2 3/4" x 3 1/2"
circa 1930s, 1940s

Robin in Top Hat and Shoes
Flat

To My Valentine ~ Just a little valentine A little greeting too For someone who is very nice And that someone is you.

2 1/4" x 3 3/4"
dated 1925
single fold

Coulda PHONED ya --Coulda WIRED ya -- Coulda wrote a LETTER ~ But to say "I like you lots" A VALENTINE is better!

3 5/8" x 3 5/8" (3 5/8" x 7 1/4" opened)
dated 1948
french fold
by Hallmark
marked: 5V104-4

SWALLOW your pride and be my Valentine - I'd like to be a swallow, Then dart to you and say: "I love you dearly, truly, Be my Valentine Today."

2 1/2" x 3 3/4"
circa 1930s
made in USA
by Carrington
A in tree logo

With best wishes to My Valentine ~ I'm so Bashful! The Valentine's a fine invention For bashful chaps like me, I need not even sign my name A great relief, you see.

4" x 3 7/8" (4" x 7 3/4" opened)
Made in USA
by Whitney Made
circa 1930s

To one I love.

1 3/8" x 4 3/8"

Made in Germany

circa 1920s

To my Valentine. Love. The thought of you makes my heart sing ~ I want to take you under my WING.
circa 1920s, 1930s
Mechanical Stork, Crane
made in USA

I'm sticking my neck out to ask U, to be my Valentine.
Ostrich in zoo

made in USA

To One I Love

2 1/2" x 4 1/2"
circa 1910s/1920s
mechanical
made in GERMANY

To My Valentine
I can't begin to tell you
How happy it would make me
If you would be my Valentine
And never more forsake me.

3 1/4" x 4 1/2" (6 5/8" x 4 1/2" unfolded)
dated 1921
made by Whitney Made

Everything with me is DUCKY and my friends say I'm so Lucky. My Valentine!

5 7/8" x 3 7/8"
circa 1930s/1940s
made in USA

SPEAK UP
Whose Valentine are you?

3 1/8" x 4 3/8"
circa 1930s
made in USA

In friendship very true and sweet
This cheery valentine is sent on wings of love to greet
A charming friend of mine.

2 5/8" x 3 1/4" (2 5/8" x 6 1/2" open)
circa 1920s/1930s

I'll have something to CROW about if you'll be My Valentine

7" x 5 3/8"
circa 1920s/1930s
mechanical rooster/chicken
made in USA

Hi Lovebird! Have a SWEET Valentine!

4 1/4" x 5 1/4"
circa 1940s/1950s
Erco Candies
Lollipop Card

Here I am my Valentine!

made in Germany
circa 1930s

Female in Top hat rides a Large Bird

mechanical flat

To my Valentine Whoo says I can't stay in your Heart.

Owl pops up
circa 1930s

Love Be Mine And I'll have Something to Crow About My Valentine.

4" x 7 3/8"
dated 1949
made in USA
mechanical flat

Artist - Grace Drayton - Mmm Mmm Good!

2011-01-06T16:46:00.000-08:00

Valentine Greetings - Sweetheart, whate'er this life withholds, This one thing comforts me, Tho' much I craved hath been denied, Dear love it gave me thee. (on the underside of the base) To my Valentine It isn't fair the way you play, you steal a heart and run away (on piece featuring the two figures)

7 3/4" x 9 1/2" (3" deep when opened)
circa 1910s
fold-down dimensional
Two running figures
no makers mark
made in USA

For my Valentine.

9" x 5"
dated 1917
flat with easel stand
Dutch Girl in Wooden Shoes
by Bergman
made in USA

Grace Drayton (born Viola Grace Gebbie in 1877) is best known as the creator of the Campbell's Soup Kids (in 1904). Born the daughter of an art printer, George Gebbie, she and her sisters all were talented. She got a formal art education at The Philadelphia School of Design for Women, though she may never have graduated.

Happy Valentine.

7 1/8" x 3 5/8"
dated 1917
mechanical flat with with easel stand

Girl with Bird on Umbrella

by Bergman
made in USA

Her earliest work was done under her maiden name - Grace Geddie. Later illustrations are credited either as Grace Wiederseim (GG Wiederseim) following her first marriage to Theodore E. Wiederseim Jr in 1904 or even later, Grace or GG Drayton (1911 and after). She illustrated many books - several of which can be very hard to find these days - created comic strips, designed dolls (esp notable is the Dolly Dingle paper doll series), drew magazine covers, calendars, created cast iron figures, and more.

Valentine I am yours.

8 3/4" x 4 1/2"
dated 1917
for Bergman

made in USA

Her chubby children include a lot of girls in sunbonnets. Puppo is a little sad-eyed dog character that is awfully cute. Another character seen repeated on a lot of items is her September Morn/September Moon nude bathing figures based on Paul Chabas' September Morning.

My heart will dance right down the line If you'll be mine, my Valentine.

4 3/4" x 4 1/2"
circa 1910s
single fold

Art Nouveau front has girl in hat in very similar pose as girl with basket above

Interior features a tennis player. This one could be someone copying Drayton's style - it is from the same time period as other valentines of hers. The print quality is not as nice as on the Bergman cards, but it is charming none the less.

Her Valentine's Day cards are rarely signed by her, making identification a little tricky. She created many different stand-up character cards for Bergman which carry the Bergman logo. Her figures often have sad eyes and an up-turned gaze. Others have very round eyes and lots of lashes - somewhat similar to Chloe Preston's children. They all tend to sport rosy, chubby cheeks. Most will date from the 1910s or 1920s. Be aware that there are reproductions out there, especially of her postcards and Dolly Dingle paper dolls, done by B. Shackman Co and by Dover.

To My Love.

10" x 4 7/8"
Dolly Dingle
mechanical with easel stand

Ms. Drayton divorced from her second husband in 1923. This was quite scandalous in the day, with the details of her divorce covered in the pages of The New York Times. Throughout the 1920s she was very active in several artist societies and in New York social circles. She was a founder of the Philadelphia Plastic Club, in 1897, an art organization for women artists that still endures today, though membership is no longer limited to women.

Figure from magazine page of Dolly Dingle World Flight in Switzerland.

3 7/8" x 1 5/8"
for paper doll
From The Pictorial Review
series ran from 1913 - 1933
pages from the depression era were printed in two-tones like this example. Prior to 1926 Dolly Dingle pages were in full color

I'm Yours.
magazine cut-out
1 7/8" x 2"

Drayton's sister, Margaret G. Hayes, also drew lots of children, creating many adorable paper dolls as well as book illustrations and valentines. The two talented sisters sometimes collaborated, like they did on the comic The Turr'ble Tales of Kaptin Kiddo.

Artie and Baldie
magazine cut-out
1 3/4" x 2 3/8"

Less well known are Drayton's paintings of women. Several appeared as cover images for The Saturday Evening Post. Ms. Drayton died of a heart attack on January 31, 1936, just a year after beginning another comic strip, The Pussycat Princess. She was only 58 at the time and still turning out several drawings a day up until a brief illness that precipitated her untimely death.

Use Wheataren - For My Valentine Grocer I'll take your orders

Mechanical Flat

circa 1910s, 1920s

6" x 3 3/8"

I'm trying to drum up someone - For My Valentine

Mechanical Flat

circa 1910s, 1920s

6 1/4" x 3"

********************************************************************************
Companies Ms. Wiederseim-Drayton is Known to Have Worked For:
(this list may not be complete)

A. M. Davis Co. (Quality Cards)
B.B., London (Birn Bros)
Reinthal & Newman, N.Y.
Raphael Tuck
A. G. Taylor
Armour & Co
Fairman Co
C. W. Faulkner
Campbell Art Co
Campbell Soup Co
Swift & Co
Alfred Schweizer Co

********************************************************************************

Sources:

Grace Drayton, a Children’s Illustrator Who also Painted Young Women--a Biographical Sketch; by W. E. McGrath
Valentine Treasury - A Century of Valentine Cards; by Robert Brenner
The Artist-Signed Postcard Price Guide; by J. L. Mashburn

A Sweet for My Sweet - Lollipop Cards marked Erco - E Rosen Co

2010-12-29T07:25:00.000-08:00

Hi Cutie! Guess we're in the same boat now.

4 1/4" x 5 1/4"
circa 1950s
Lollipop Card
by E Rosen Company

Hi Lovebird! Have a SWEET Valentine!

4 1/4" x 5 1/4"
circa 1950s/1960s
Erco Candies
Lollipop Card

Just LOADED with Love for You.
4 1/8" x 5 1/4"
Lollipop Card
made by Erco

ERCO is likely a shortening for the E Rosen Co of Rhode Island. E Rosen has been in business since around 1911 and have produced a number of fun plastic collectibles as well as their wonderful lollipop cards.

I'm Buster Brown, and I live in a shoe. ♥♥♥♥

2010-12-28T16:05:00.000-08:00

♥That's my dog, Tige, and he lives there, too. ♥

My Valentine, Valentine

6 5/8" x 4"
circa 1920s
die-cut mechanical

Buster Brown Styled Child and Cat
by Richard Felton Outcault

Outcault created the first merchandised, comic strip character with his Yellow Kid from the Hogan's Alley strip of the 1890s. Buster Brown came along in 1902. This character can be found on many items - most famously on the Brown Shoe Companies' shoes, often accompanied with Tige, his dog. Some of the other child characters Outcault drew on valentines featured children with chin-length hair and hats with up-turned brims - just like Buster.

If You've Never Been a Frog Kissin'...

2010-12-27T10:25:00.000-08:00

To One I Love

6 7/8" x 5 3/4" (with mouth opened)
circa 1900s, 1910s
mechanical mouth
with rotating wheel
made in Germany

Artist Marked: Initials - H. B.

2010-12-26T16:35:00.000-08:00

Valentine ~ To My Valentine!

3 7/8" x 2 3/8"

circa 1920s, 1930s
girl in green dress and hat
made in Germany
Mechanical Flat
Eyes move
marked H. B. along bottom edge

Valentine Greetings

3 7/8" x 2 3/8"

circa 1920s, 1930s
sailor
made in Germany
Mechanical Flat
Eyes move
marked H. B. along bottom edge

These big-eyed characters have a lot of personality and nice detailing. The heads are a little large, with small hands. The initials H. B. are likely an artist marking, but could also be a company mark.

Boats, Canoes, Lighthouses

2010-11-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

I couldn't SKIP-per date like this, for a Valentine like you.

5" x 6 3/8"
1930s
Fold-Out
made in USA

Valentine Greetings Searching for Romance

4 3/4" x 2 1/2"
dated 1935
Mechanical Flat
made in Germany

I'm H'anchor'ing for you, Valentine ~ I've an ocean of Love All for you, Valentine And you'd ought to come in - 'Cause the water's just fine!

3 3/4" x 5 3/8"
circa 1930s, 1940s

with attached metal anchor charm

French Fold
made in USA
by Gibson Brothers
marked: GB (in rectangle logo) 8428 on the back

I'm looking for my Valentine

7" x 3 3/4"
circa 1930s
mechanical card

Lithograph by Stecher

marked '21'
made in USA

I'm all at sea Won't you be my Valentine?

5 1/4" x 5 3/4"
circa 1940s
mechanical card
made in USA

I ad-OAR you, My Valentine ~ So don't take the wind out of my sails. Be Mine!

3 1/2" x 4 1/4" (4 1/2" x 6 3/4" opened)
circa 1940s
by Doubl-Glo
Modified French Fold
made in USA

I'm PUT-PUT-PUTTING Myself Right into Your Heart Valentine!
circa 1950s, 1960s
5 5/8" x 3 1/8"
marked: P-917/4 Litho in U.S.A.

You're MOTOR me than I can say, Valentine.
circa 1930s, 1940s
made in USA

When you're looking for a Valentine Don't SKIP the SKIPPER.

6 5/8" x 5 1/4"
circa 1940s/1950s
by Carrington
marked 'E' in tree logo

There is lots of room for two
Can't I speed away with you
If your idea's the same as mine
why not be my valentine.

3 5/8" x 3" (3" x 6 3/8" open)
circa 1930s

To my Valentine.

6 1/8" x 5 7/8"
circa 1920s/1930s
likely an unsigned Charles Twelvetrees
made in GERMANY

To my Valentine.

3 1/4" x 3 3/4"
circa 1920s
made in GERMANY

Edible Love - Anthopomorphized Fruits and Veggies

2010-11-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

There is no love sincerer than the love of food. - Shaw

Of CORE-se you're the APPLE of my eye! And that's no APPLESAUCE!

3" x 4"
1940S, 1950s
Flat
marked: 1VG690-5

Now be a GOOD EGG and be my Valentine.

3 1/4" x 3 3/4"
circa 1950s
Moving Card
by A-Meri-Card
marked: P-202

Egg with Halo and Wings wearing a Suit and Gloves

Halo, Wings and Eyes move Together

I'd be BERRY happy to PEAR off with YOU VALENTINE!

5" x 4 1/8"
circa 1940s, 1950s
by American Greetings
Standing Card
made in USA

Can you SQUEEZE me into your Heart. ORANGE you my Valentine

circa 1950s
made in USA
Flat
Citrus fruit with a Juicer

'Lo Sugar! Be my Valentine!

anthropomorphized sack of sugar

I'm PIE-ning for you Valentine. Be Mine.
circa 1950s
made in USA
Smiling Pie
Flat
By A-Meri-Card

You ApPEAL to me. Be my Valentine.
circa 1950s
marked: U-715-1
Flat
Happy Bananna

You suit me to a TEA Valentine.
circa 1950s
Two Rosy-Cheeked Cups of Tea
Flat

To my Valentine Don't give me the SLIP I've gone bananas over you.

Mechanical card with Dancing Banana

You're the BERRIES Honey! I want you for my Valentine.

raspberries in pint container
by A-Meri-Card

Give me those Sweet Candy Kisses My Valentine
circa 1950s

I've asked you lots of times ONION never say "Yes"

circa 1940s

Distressed Looking Onion with a Background of Tears

I YAM crazy about you, Valentine! Won't you be my Sweet Patootie?

3" x 4"
circa 1950s
Flat
marked: 1V N-690-10

Food, Candy and Soda - To the HEART through the TUMMY!

2010-10-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sugar or honey which'll it be? It makes no diff - You're both to me.

5" x 7 3/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
Standing Fold-Out

Valentine I've got a lot of CRUST to tell you ~ That you're my SUGAR-PIE.

4 5/8" x 6 3/8"
circa 1940s
Mechanical Flat
marked: made in USA

We'd make a swell MIXTURE so let's get things ROLLIN' and be Valentines.

4" x 3 3/8"
dated 1948

Figure with Dough and Rolling Pin
Flat
made in USA

You take the CAKE my Valentine.

2 5/8" x 4 1/2"
dated 1938

Baker with Heart-Shaped Pastries
marked: Made in USA
Flat

It will be the LAST STRAW if you won't be my Valentine.

3 1/2" x 2 3/4"
circa 1940s

I want you for my Valentine. I hope you DOUGH-NUT mind.

6 3/8" x 2 1/2"
circa 1950s, 1960s
Standing Fold-Out
marked: made in USA 756/14

I'd like to be your SWEET-TEA if you will be my Valentine!

3 3/4" x 3 1/2" (3 1/2" x 7 1/2")
circa 1930s, 1940s

Die-cut Teapot

Sweet Tea is a Southern USA Favorite

I hope the RANGE of your Happiness is in my KITCHEN, Valentine!
circa 1930s
made in USA

Please don't turn SOUR on me, Valentine
Don't CHURN know I'm yours.

Churning Butter
Mechanical

**************************************************
More Valentines with Food Themes

Page 2 of Vintage Valentines Food

Anthropomorphized Food

Chewing and Bubble Gum

Bulldogs - Bully For Love!

2010-08-15T15:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Landings will be mine if you are my Valentine

3 1/4" x 4"
circa 1930s
Flat

Skydiving Bulldog with Parachute
Marked: Made in USA

My Bullie Valentine

Bulldog Stand-Up Card
circa 1940s/1950s
made in USA

Upon this day when love holds sway And honeyed words are written I really, truly want to say On you I'm surely smitten.

3 3/8" x 3 1/4" (3 1/4" x 6 3/4" opened)
Made in USA
by Carrington ('A' in tree logo)
circa 1930s

features a yawning white dog who could be an American bulldog

To My Valentine

3" x 4 3/4"
circa 1930s
moving or mechanical card

Cars and Vehicles - The Romance of the Backseat- Oo La La!

2010-08-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

To My Valentine

4 1/2" x 3 1/8"
dated 1932
Flat with Easel Stand

Park here if you're looking for a sweet valentine.

5 1/4" x 4 1/8"
dated 1928
Roadside stand with Tonic-Cream Banner
Stand-Up

To My Sweetheart.

2 3/8" x 5 1/2" flat
1920s
Standing Fold Out

STEP ON IT and show a little SPEED Dear Valentine

3 1/8" x 5 1/8"
circa 1930s
mechanical flat

Blonde behind the wheel swings from side to side

Valentine You won't have to take a BACK SEAT for anyone if you'll be mine

7" x 4 1/4"
circa 1930s, 1940s
Flat
marked: C CO P-523

Blue and Silver Bus with Uniformed driver and Passenger in the Back

ME-4U ~ If I had a VALENTINE like you I'd TRAILER all around.

4 3/8" x 7"
circa 1930s, 1940s
Marked P-523
C CO
made in USA

You AUTO care for me with un-TIRE-ing devotion my Valentine.

5 1/2" x 7 1/2"
circa 1950s
made by A-Meri-Card
marked 'P-178' on the back

To Someone Nice, Your Valentine, Just for You ~ Look at this Valentine, Read it Through, Then you will know Who's thinking of You.

French-Fold
circa 1940s

Oh, what you've done to my Heart! Valentine Be Mine.

made in USA
circa 1940s, 1950s

Please PUT-PUT-PUT me in your Heart! My Love.

made in USA
circa 1950s

You're my VALENTINE
You AUTO know it

5 3/4" x 3 1/8"
maker unknown

I'd like to drive you into being my Valentine.

5 1/8" x 3 1/2"
circa 1920s/1930s

To My Valentine.

Tour Bus
5 1/8" x 3 1/2"
circa 1920s/1930s

made in Germany

1-4-U-2 LOVE
Here is Your LICENSE to Love Me.

License Plate
6 1/2" x 3 3/8"
circa 1940s
made by Carrington

My Dear Sweetheart.

Antique Auto
4 1/4" x 3"
with stand on back
circa 1920s
made in GERMANY

To My Valentine - Going My Way?

City Bus
2 3/4" x 3 3/4"
circa 1940s/1950s
made in USA

I'll Never TIRE of your Love My Valentine!

3 7/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1940s
by A-MERI-CARD

Hop in! You AUTO be mine!
We could GO PLACES together!.

Car and Scotty Dog
3 3/4" x 7" flat
circa 1940s
made in USA

You're PURR-fect for Me! Valentine Cats

2010-07-22T18:08:00.000-07:00

A Token of Affection.

3 3/8" x 5 1/8"
circa 1910s, 1920s
flat

Cat in suit with tails, Bowler Hat and Attache Case
marked: Germany

I want you for my Valentine!

3" x 4 7/8"
circa 1930s
Flat

Black Cat with Bow on Neck
marked: Made in USA

My Sweet Valentine Do I love YOU? ~ You can bet your BOOTS I do!

3 1/2" x 4 1/4" (4 1/4" x 6 3/8" opened)
circa 1930s, 1940s
assymetrical french fold
by Doubl-Glo

I've got you for My Valentine

3 1/8" x 5 1/4"

circa 1910s/1920s
made in Germany
Cat holding a small dog that looks like George E. Studdy's Bonzo character

Flat with easel stand on the back

Valentine Greetings.

folding stand-up card
circa 1940s

Loving Greetings.

with easel stand
circa 1910s/1920s
made in Germany

To My Valentine.

mechanical card
3" x 4"
circa 1920s/1930s
Strange Cat with Exaggerated Whiskers
made in Germany
Above and below cards are part of a series

To My Valentine.

mechanical card
3" x 4"
circa 1920s/1930s
Strange Cat with Exaggerated Whiskers
made in Germany

To My Valentine.

mechanical card
2 3/4" x 4"
circa 1920s/1930s
Strange Cat with Exaggerated Whiskers
made in Germany

*********************************************

See more Vintage Valentines with Cats

You Get My Motor Running! Motorcycle Valentines

2010-07-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

Joyville ~ To My Valentine with me the paths of joy you'll find for we'll leave all cross-roads behind.

3" x 3 1/2" (3 1/2" x 5 7/8" opened)
circa 1930s

There's no SPEED LIMIT Valentine and the road's clear so C'mon and be mine!

Folded
dated 1934

Submissive Love/Dominant Love - Dictators and Slaves

2010-07-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

I'll wash the dishes, Scrub the floors, and make 'em fairly shine, And be your willing slave if you will be my Valentine

features a figure on his knees scrubbing
circa 1940s/1950s
made in USA

I would like you for my DICTATOR Valentine because my heart is all out for you!

3 1/2" x 4 5/8" (4 5/8" x 7" opened)
circa 1940s

made in USA by Doubl-Glo

marked: P1701-1

a very unusual theme for a valentine

Come down OFF YOUR PERCH as my valentine you'd be a BIRDIE.

2 3/4" x 4"
circa 1940s

girl with wings kept in a cage

Love with a BANG! Guns on Valentines

2010-07-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Bang! I'm LOADED with love 4 u! Valentine.

2 1/2" x 4 7/8"
circa 1950s
Flat
made in USA

You've STOLEN MY HEART! Be my Valentine will you?

2 7/8" x 3 7/8"
circa 1940s/1950s

Thief wearing mask with Heart-Covered Bag of Loot
Flat
marked: 25 CV1-18

Be my Valentine! Hands up! Hands up! Don't cry or start I merely want to steal your heart!

4 1/8" x 3 5/8"
dated 1943
made in USA

To My Valentine ~ Make it snappy Give me your Heart!

3 3/4" x 3" x 1 3/4" (7 3/8" x 3" opened)
circa 1920s, 1930s
made in USA
marked with a triangle with 'K' and 'L' on either side

I want to STEAL your Heart my Valentine.

Robber hops a fence
with revolver in his hand
5" x 5" (flat)
circa 1930s/1940s

I'd play a LADY BANDIT part to try to steal away your Heart!
For you're the thief, dear Valentine, who has already stolen mine!

4 1/2" x 3 1/8" (3 1/8" x 7 5/8" flat)
circa 1930s/1940s
made in USA

I can't sub-merge my love for you so be my valentine please do! Snap it love.

odd card with figures on a moving submarine and a hand gun.

Lookout Valentine I'm AIMING to make you mine. And I don't aim to miss.

Revolver with cow on handle
made in USA

Tools and Hardware

2010-07-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm LEVEL ing with you - I want you for my Valentine.

2 1/2" x 6 1/4"
circa 1950s, 1960s
Flat
made in USA
marked: 756 8

Don't BRUSH me off! I'm crazy about you Valentine!

3 1/2" x 3 1/2"
circa 1950s
made in USA
by A-Meri-Card
marked: x-107

You are something to a-DOOR
Our love HINGES on this ~ Will you be Mine?

4 3/4" x 5 1/4"
circa 1930s
made by CARRINGTON

I Love You

Can I CHISEL in on some of your love.

3 3/4" x 3 1/4"
circa 1940s
made in USA
marked: 101

Angelic Love - Angels and Cupids

2010-07-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

To my Valentine ~ When Cupid knocks at your house, Don't let him turn away Sad-heartedly concluding, "Nobody home to-day."

3 1/4" x 2 5/8" (2 5/8' x 6 1/2" opened)
circa 1930s

Cupid in Envelope of Flowers
Single Fold

A Token of Love.

2 5/8" x 4"
circa 1910s, 1920s
flat

Blacksmith Cupid with Anvil and Hammer
marked: Printed in Germany

To my Valentine.

3 3/8" x 3 1/2"
dated 1927
made in Germany

My heart's in the CLOUDS when I think of you, dear Valentine!

2 1/4" x 5"
Unusual Flying Lady (Angel?) wearing Goggles
circa 1940s

CUPID's not STUPID
Say you'll be mine!

3 1/8" x 4"
circa 1930s
made in USA

I'm just bustin' with Love for you my Valentine.
circa 1930s
made in USA

HALO Angel Won't you WING your way to me Valentine.

circa 1950s

When a straight shooter like Cupid says y're my Valentine you ARE my Valentine! More Love, Love.

Mechanical Card
made in USA

Fox Terrier Type - Dogs on Vintage Valentines

2010-07-04T11:40:00.000-07:00

Best Valentine Wishes

2 3/8" x 2 3/8"
circa 1930s
made in Germany

I'm feeling happy, awfully snappy, I bet you can't guess why? I love you dear I can't deny; so be my Valentine!

Stand-up Fox Terrier Type dog
4 1/4" x 4 1/8" (flat)
circa 1930s/1940s
made in USA

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Back to Main Dogs Page

Audiophile - Radios, Record Players and Stereos

2010-07-03T06:10:00.000-07:00

Some people wanna fill the world with silly love songs and what's wrong with that?
- Paul McCartney

Hi! Valentine You're the GREATEST got me Rockin' and Rollin'!

3 3/4" x 7 5/8"
circa 1950s, 1960s
Flat
made in USA

Won't you be My Sponsor, Valentine.

1 3/4" x 4" flat
circa 1930s, 1940s
Flat

I sure would like to go ROUND with you Valentine!

4" x 3 1/4"
circa 1950s
flat

anthropomorphized victrola
made in USA
by American Greetings
marked: 25 BV9-12

RE-CORD me as your Valentine. You've got Everything.

Mechanical Card
made in USA

As a matter of RECORD I want you for My Valentine.

3 3/4" x 6 1/8"
circa 1930s
made by Carrington
'C' in tree logo

Tune In ~ By Radio I'll let you know My love for you is lasting So back to me quite rapidly Won't you please be broadcasting I LOVE YOU?

2 3/4" x 3 1/4"
made by Carrington ('A' in tree logo)
dated 1929
made in USA

It's on the RECORD - Be mine.
circa 1950s/1960s

Valentine Greetings

3 1/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1910s-1920s
made in GERMANY

Hearing her Sweetheart's Voice

Girl and Scotty dog with Radio
circa 1920s/1930s
made in Germany

While strains of music are playing waltz-time I'll give my heart to my Valentine

circa 1920s
made in Germany

J G Scott - Gibson Cards Artist

2010-07-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

You suit me fine, My Valentine

4 1/8" x 3 1/8"
circa 1920s/1930s
made by Gibson
possibly by J G Scott

To My Valentine

4" x 3 1/4"
circa 1940s
die cut - dog playing flute

marked: Gibson Cinti., U.S.A.

1 V 8015

Rain or Shine

I Love You.

4 1/4" x 3 1/4"
dated 1936
die cut

Girl with Umbrella and Small Dog

no Gibson mark on the back

You cut some figure with me!

4 1/4" x 3 1/2"
circa 1940s
die cut

Skater with High Button Ice Skates

marked: Gibson Cinti., U.S.A.

1 v 8026

I Like You.

4 1/8" x 3 1/4"
circa 1940s or early 1950s
die cut

marked: A Gibson Card

Gibson Cinti., U.S.A.

To My Valentine

4 1/8" x 3 1/4"
circa 1930s
die cut

All my Love is for YOU.

3 1/8" x 4"
circa 1940s
made by Gibson
marked: 1 V 8027

Hello There! You're Nice ~

This little Dutch girl Is neat as can be,

Her cap's snowy white,

As you plainly can see;

In her big wooden shoes

She is coming your way

To tell you "Hello"

On St Valentine's Day.

4 1/8" x 6"
circa 1950s
made in USA
by Gibson
marked: A Gibson Card

Gibson Cinti., U.S.A.

10V 8078

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

None of the cards on this page are signed by the artist, but are likely to be by John G Scott (aka JG Scott). There is very little written about this prolific artist and he did not sign most of his work.

Mr. Scott's association with Gibson runs from May 1924 - Dec 1953. He also drew Cream of Wheat ads in the 1920s that appeared in the Saturday Evening Post and the Peoples Home Journal and did some magazine covers.

In addition to his work as an artist, Mr. Scott served as a Representative to the Pennsylvania State General Assembly from the County
of Schuylkill from 1925 - 1934. His passing in March of 1975 was noted in the Wed., April 30th 1975 session of the General Assembly.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Other Pages of Interest:

Imitators of J G Scott

Art Deco Series - 1930s Children in Hats

2010-06-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

Fond Remembrance

3" x 3 3/4"
circa 1930s
made in USA

figure on a fence wearing a green turban

To my Dear one

3" x 3 3/4"
circa 1930s
made in USA

figure with a dog in a schoolboy hat

To my Valentine

3" x 3 3/4"
circa 1930s
made in USA

figure in bonnet with flowers

In the Style of J G Scott - Cards that Look similar to the Gibson Artist

2010-06-23T17:49:00.000-07:00

Polly wants you to be mine and so do I.

2 5/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1940s
made in USA

Be My Valentine ~ 1 heart + 1 heart = 1 joined heart.

2 1/8" x 3 3/4"
circa 1920s
made in USA

The prolific Gibson artist, J G Scott had many imitators. Done with a bit of the same pastel look as Scott is known for, these cards are not marked with the Gibson name.

Love and Chinese Lanterns - Katherine or Katharine Gassaway

2010-06-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

To my Valentine.

4 1/2" x 4"
circa 1910s
Unusual Theme
Figures appear on Other Cards, sometimes Individually
made in Germany

Katherine Gassaway is another mysterious artist. Her work on valentines date (generally considered to be from around 1906-1909 but I believe may extend into the 1910s) to the same period of that of Ellen Clapsaddle and the early careers of Frances Brundage and Grace Drayton. It is a very short window for what is quite a number of creations to be produced.

Forget me not I ask of thee Reserve one spot in your heart for me.

4 1/2" x 5"
circa 1910s
Cannon and Paper Lanterns
Paper Puff has Verse Attached
made in Germany

It is easy to confuse her cards with that of Chloe Preston (whose work dates mainly to the late 1910s and 1920s) because they both drew children with wide-eyes and did many standing cards featuring honey-comb or paper-puff that are fairly similar in their layout. Some of the posing of her figures is also akin to that of Clapsaddle and Brundage. Adding to the difficulty is that she worked for some of the same companies as these other artists. Her subject matter is mostly children and she created many cards with Black or African American figures.

To My Heart's Dearest - Accept this, I pray, in place of a line, And with it myself, as your Valentine.

cake opens to reveal layers of scarp decorations and paperpuff
7 1/2" x 5"
circa 1900s - 1910s
for Raphael Tuck and Sons
printed in Germany
Frances Brundage created some cards for Tuck that have similar characters and parts that open like this Gassaway card

Much of her work is unsigned, but some postcards have a very stylized signature with a round-cornered rectangular border encompassing it. That signature can be seen to read Katharine, with 2 a's and one e (not the more common Katherine), but you will find her most often credited by online sellers as Katherine. I recently saw a Christmas postcard with a copyright date of 1918 that had just the last name, Gassaway, without a first name and no border around it. The style of the illustration seemed to be in keeping with known examples of her work so its possible she used this less stylized signature on later cards.

She also illustrated some children's books, most notably a difficult to find version of Isaac Coale Jr's The Sambo Book published in 1898 by the Williams and Wilkins Co. Another is The Edge by John Corbin dating to 1914.

The dated Christmas postcard and the book illustrations dating to the 1910s, as well as a cover illustration for The Countryside Magazine dating to 1916 suggest that it is possible that some of her valentines may also have been created a little later than is widely considered.

It is difficult to find biographical information on Ms. Gassaway. So far we have been unable to find even basics like birth and death years. She was most likely an American artist judging from her subject matter, though even this really is an assumption. It could be that the name is a pseudonym which would explain why so little is known about an artist whose illustrations were so popular. Ms. Gassaway remains an enigma - a puzzle that may never be solved.

************************************************************

Companies that Ms. Gassaway is known to have worked for:

Rotograph Co
Raphael Tuck
National Art Co
Ullman Mfg. Co

************************************************************

sources:

Valentine Treasury - Robert Brenner
Orange Coast Mag/Apr 83/Postcards 1869-1920s - Marie Eckess, Ph.D
Overland Mag/Jan-Jun 1899/Vol XXXIII - Bret Harte

Golfers Stay the Course FORE you!

2010-06-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

I'm all FORE you my VALENTINE.

3 5/8" x 3 1/2"
circa 1920s, 1930s

Though I'm just an everyday CADDY I'd sure like to be your LADDIE Aw' come on and be my Valentine.

4 3/4" x 5 7/8"
dated 1932
made in USA
deco

Of course I want you for my Valentine.

Golfer with Golf Clubs
7" x 5 1/2"
circa 1930s/1940s

I'd be up to PAR with you as my Valentine!

Golfer on the Golf Course
3 5/8" x 3 5/8"
circa 1930s/1940s
A-Meri-Card

Margaret Evans Price - Illustrator, Toy Designer, Valentine Artist

2010-02-15T12:01:00.000-08:00

Valentine Greetings I'd like to be your Valentine.

5" x 7 3/4"
dated 1916
Stetcher Lith. Co. of Rochester, NY
by Margaret Evans Price

features a girl in hat and spats with a bell and furry muff

If you Love me It's time you Said so.

5" x 7 5/8"
dated 1916
made in USA
features a girl in a chair with a white cat at her feet

Painter, illustrator, muralist and toy designer Margaret Evans Price (American, 1888-1973) is primarily known for her work as a children's book author and illustrator. She can be difficult to find as a valentine card designer. Her work has a rich, art deco feel and is well worth the hunt.

Ms. Price was the wife of Fisher-Price Toy founder Irving Price and in 1930 was the company's founding art director. The first line produced by Fisher-Price was a series of push-pull toys based on illustrations from her books. From those books, her drawings of fairy tale characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood are especially gorgeous with wonderful use of color and line.

Soap Box Derby Cars - A Rare Valentine Theme

2010-02-11T16:36:00.000-08:00

I don't want to PUSH things ~ But will you be My Valentine.

4 3/4" x 4 1/4"
circa 1930s, 1940s
by Carrington
'A' in tree logo

Here's another fun but rare theme for valentines - soap box derby cars. Kids racing vehicles has been around for a long time. It was featured in a Charlie Chaplin movie as early as 1914. Official All-American racing began in 1934 in Dayton, Ohio. The next year the event was moved to Akron, Ohio (aka Rubber City) and is still held there currently at a track called Derby Downs.

The 1970s were a noteable time for soap box derby - with the first girl winner and a scandal involving electromagnets and chemicals on the tires both happening during that decade.

Love at the Track - Horse Racing Themed Valentine Cards

2010-02-11T07:22:00.000-08:00

Hope I'm first under the wire to be your Valentine.

5" x 5 1/2"
1930s
Flat

To My Sweetheart

3 5/8" x 4 1/8"
German Made
circa 1920s, 1930s

also features a cute bulldog running alongside

You picked a WINNER when you got me.

5 3/4" x 5 1/4"
circa 1920s

My Valentine I may not win this RACE but I still am bent on winning you!

3 1/2" x 5 1/2"
circa 1940s-1950s

Valentine - You're a HIT with me! Baseball Themed Cards

2010-02-08T15:32:00.000-08:00

Please don't leave me on the BENCH 'cause you've made a HIT with me my valentine.

4 1/2" x 8 5/8" flat
circa 1930s, 1940s
Standing Fold Out

Valentine You've made a Big HIT Will I make a Good CATCH?

4 3/4" x 4 5/8"
Made in USA
circa 1940s, 1950s

I can't get along MIT out you. I'd make a GOOD CATCH! My Valentine!

Glove is done in relief (raised)
circa 1930s/1940s

It STRIKES me funny how I always fall for you. It's cause you've PLENTY ON THE BALL Valentine.

Flat
circa 1940s

Hearts Ablaze - It's Red Hot Love! Fire Fighter Cards

2010-02-08T15:16:00.000-08:00

My heart is BURNING for you, My Valentine.

3" x 6 3/4" flat
circa 1930s
Standing Fold-Out
made in USA

A RED-HOT Valentine! Fires I got plenty of - How about a little hug?

6" x 7 3/4"
Made in USA
circa 1940s, 1950s

Love bugs, Insects and Creepy Crawlers

2010-02-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I'd like to WORM my way into your heart, dear Valentine!

2 1/4" x 4 1/2"
circa 1950s
made in USA
Flat

Can't cha see I'm BUGS about-cha Valentine!

7 1/4" x 4 1/2" (flat)
Made in USA
circa 1930s, 1940s

STICK around Valentine
Catch On.

3 1/4" x 4 1/4"
circa 1930s
made in USA

How'd you like to be my HONEY? Please BEE mine.

circa 1940s, 1950s

School Themes and Teacher Cards

2010-02-08T08:02:00.000-08:00

Hi There! Hep Chick! Well wet my feet and call me DUCKY! If You're my Valentine I'm LUCKY!

4 1/8" x 6 1/8"
Made in USA
by A-Meri-Card
marked P-113
circa 1940s, 1950s

Feb. 14th Valentine's Day For Teacher ~ I think you're Grand.

2 1/2" x 5 1/8"circa 1950s

Teacher, I've learned my Lesson ~ I'll be Yours.

3" x 5"circa 1950s/1960s
Figure in Dunce Cap Pops-Up

Call on me to be your Valentine Teacher.

2 5/8" x 5"circa 1950s/1960s
made in USA

I May be DUMB about some Things but...I Know that I Want You for my Valentine!

2 3/4" x 3 1/4"circa 1950s
made in USA
A-Meri-Card

Can't we GRADually get Acquainted - Valentine?

2 3/4" x 3 1/4"circa 1940s/1950s
made in USA