F.A. Owen Co., Divided Back Birthday Postcard, 1916

This divided back postcard, published by F.A. Owen Co. of Dansville, N.Y., features a charming illustration of a flowering bush with vibrant pink and purple blossoms. The right side of the card carries a heartfelt birthday message: 'Your Birthday. Sometimes from the far-away, Wing a little thought to me In the night or in the day, It will give a rest to me.' The postcard is postmarked March 7, 1916, from Lyndon, Kansas, and addressed to Mrs. Will Paitsch in Wessington, South Dakota.

The back of the card includes a personal message: 'My dear B. Setha, In your birthday tomorrow and how I wish I could be with you and do something for you on your special day! I am sending you a little gift. I hope you like it. Love, Clara.' The postcard bears a one-cent green stamp featuring Benjamin Franklin, which was common for the era. The card is in good condition with minor corner wear.

This postcard documents early 20th-century communication and social customs, particularly the tradition of sending birthday greetings. It reflects the personal touch and sentimentality valued in correspondence of the time. Surviving examples provide insight into regional connections and the use of postcards as a primary means of long-distance communication.