This vintage postcard is an interesting example of both Tobacciana and Postal history. This postcard was a calling card sent by Tobacco salesmen to their tobacconist customers. More specifically, the postcard would inform shopkeepers as to the exact date they could expect the salesman to call on them. This postcard was sent by a salesman employed by T Whalen. The firm was located in Rochester, New York. It manufactured Tobacco and Cigars and dealt in Pipes and Leaf Tobacco. The business was established in 1840 by Abraham Van Slyke. In 1864 the firm became Woodbury & Whalen, and a year later,the company evolved into R & T Whalen. This postcard likely dates back to pre 1907, as it is undivided and allows for no message on the address side of the card. SOLD
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 