A Volunteering Story - Life in Postcards
Volunteer roving reporter Imogen brings us the first in an occasional series on what our valued volunteers get up to.
Every Monday morning, volunteer Helen carefully works her way through box after box of historic postcards – each one written in, sent to, or picturing scenes of Cheshire, giving us a small glimpse into a world that no longer exists.
How and why?
Helen meticulously logs each postcard into a spreadsheet, noting its number, location, and a short description. She also records extra details, such as whether the card has a written message, whether it’s in colour or black and white, and the photographer’s name if it’s present. Key words are added too, helping future users quickly find what they’re looking for.
Helen’s work means that these postcards can be searched and viewed on the Cheshire Image Bank, helping more people access this fascinating collection.
About Helen
Helen started volunteering at Cheshire Archives and Local Studies after a recommendation from a former colleague. She worked as a lab technician, but has always been passionate about history, particularly family history. She says she can sometimes get sidetracked looking at the postcards and the messages written on them, and it’s easy to understand why!
Well wishes and secrets
Filled with birthday and Christmas wishes, travel updates, reminiscences of happy visits and talk of weather, the content of the messages is not very different to something you might receive in a text today. Post served as a major communication method and with around four deliveries a day - the last at 9.30pm - people were able to make and update each other about plans happening on the same day they were writing. Some messages remain more elusive, with their writers alluding to details only the recipient would understand, like this card with the message “Don’t forget what I’m not saying to you.”
Most postcards include idyllic images of churches and halls, beautiful landscapes, or familiar high streets, though some feature less awe-inspiring views. Thanks to Helen, these insights into the everyday lives of people from decades ago are accessible to all. Want to look at more of these postcards, or find one featuring where you live? They’re available to search on Cheshire Image Bank.
By Imogen, Volunteer at Cheshire Archives
