Thanksgiving Greetings, Divided Back Postcard, Wessington, SD, 1913

This divided back postcard, postmarked in Wessington, South Dakota, in 1913, features a vibrant illustration of a turkey surrounded by autumn harvest imagery, including corn, pumpkins, and grapes. The scene captures the essence of Thanksgiving, with a quaint rural house in the background, symbolizing the warmth and abundance of the holiday season.

The reverse side of the postcard bears a green one-cent U.S. postage stamp and a clear postmark from December 1, 1913. Addressed to Miss Bertha Neuggebauer in Parkston, South Dakota, the card includes a personal message: 'Dear Friend, This card will be late but I really was too busy to get it ready to send before. Did you have a happy Thanksgiving? We did. I think we had a good time. We certainly enjoyed your visit. So glad you came. Hope this finds you all well. Remember me to Mr. and Mrs. Paulson. Your friend, Flo Gearhart.' The postcard is in good condition, with minor wear typical of its age.

This postcard documents early 20th-century communication and social customs surrounding Thanksgiving. It provides insight into personal relationships and holiday traditions of the era. Surviving examples like this offer valuable records of regional history and cultural practices.