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Origins and Rise of the Christmas Card in America
The article traces the history of Christmas cards from early European beginnings to their rise in the United States. It notes Sir Henry Cole’s 1846 London card, Louis Prang’s 1873–74 American launch, and the card industry’s rapid growth through late 19th century fairs, art, and poetry. It highlights evolving motifs from nativity scenes to Americana and modern symbols reflecting broader American interests such as aviation and sports.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Elmo Scott Watson
United States
Uncle Sam
Post Office Department
Sir Henry Cole
Sir Henry
Europe
Germany
Leith
Scotland
J. C. Horsley
Royal Academy
London
Thersley
Horsley
Felix Summerly
Summerly
Treasury
Old Bond Street
America
Louis Prang
Boston
Philadelphia
Dudley Hall
Kate Greenway
Alice Havers
American Art Galleries
Richard M. Hunt
John la Farge
Louis C. Tiffany
FE. al. Blashfield
J. Alden Weir
New York
Museum of Fine Arts
Art Institute of Chicago
Lord Tennyson
Murillo
Palestine
Britain
Santa Claus
Cadio
Aviation