W2GVZ QSL Card, Ridgewood NJ, 1935, Ham Radio Communication

This QSL card, from Ridgewood, New Jersey, is a classic example of ham radio communication from 1935. The front features the call sign W2GVZ prominently, with additional handwritten notes detailing the radio contact with W9FOQ. The card includes technical details about the transmission, such as the transmitter and receiver specifications, and a personal note indicating the significance of the contact.

The back of the card is addressed to Carl G. Strauss in Redfield, South Dakota, and bears a postmark from Hud Term Annex, NY, dated February 18, 1935. The stamp used is a 1-cent Franklin, which was common for postcards of this era. The card reads: "u mi first S Dak QSO OM & u make mi 44th state tnx" and "got ur report tks qso u bet me." This card is in good condition with minor wear at the edges.

This postcard documents the vibrant culture of amateur radio enthusiasts in the early 20th century. It highlights the technical and social aspects of ham radio, which connected people across vast distances. Surviving examples like this provide valuable insights into communication patterns and the development of radio technology.