Embossed Birthday Greetings, Divided Back, 1909 Postmark, Parkston SD

This postcard features an embossed design of a purple pansy with the words 'Birthday Greetings' elegantly scripted below. The card's texture and vibrant colors are characteristic of early 20th-century postcards, specifically the divided back type, which was popular from 1907 to 1915. The back of the card includes a postmark from Parkston, South Dakota, dated February 12, 1909, and a green one-cent U.S. postage stamp featuring Benjamin Franklin.

The message on the back is written in German script, reflecting the cultural heritage of many early 20th-century American communities. It is addressed to Bertha Haugenauer in Beadle County, South Dakota. The card shows signs of wear typical for its age, including slight discoloration and minor creasing, but the embossing remains well-preserved.

This postcard documents early 20th-century communication and social customs, particularly the use of postcards for personal greetings. The German script highlights the linguistic diversity of immigrant communities in the United States. Surviving examples provide valuable insights into regional history and cultural exchanges during this era.