The first Christmas card was commissioned in 1843 but Sir Henry Cole. There were 2,050 printed and they sold for a shilling. These first Christmas cards didn't depict Christmas. The images were of spring, children, and animals. The saying on the cards: wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
In 1875 Louis Prang was the first printer to offer cards in America. These were very intricate and beautiful cards. But they were soon pushed aside by postcards that were easier to make and cheaper to send. By the 1920's the card and envelope greetings came back into style.
As world events came along they would be depicted in the cards of that year.
The first "official" Christmas card began in the 1840's when Queen Victoria send cards with portraits of the royal family at events. Later in 1953 President Dwight Eisenhower sent the first "official" White House Christmas card.
I've become one of the "newsletter" Christmas card senders. I write up a newsletter on the computer, print it out, and send it. But I love getting cards especially from other countries.
Do you send Christmas cards or letters? Do you get ones from other countries? If so what countries?
Because I love giving and it 'tis the season'- If you leave a comment you're name will be entered to win a box of western themed Christmas cards and one of my books.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Paty Jager
www.patyjager.net
www.patyjager.blogspot.com
