Alan Mays' photos with the keyword: surprised

This vinegar valentine is a postcard that was addressed to H. W. Booser, 13th Street, Harrisburg, Pa. The card was postmarked first in Lewisberry, Pa., and then a second time in Harrisburg, Pa., on Feb. 14, 1908. Although the postcard was sent anonymously with no message or signature, it's possible that the recipient recognized the sender by the postmark or through the handwriting of the address. As it turns out, Harry W. Booser lived at 121 N. 13th Street in Harrisburg, and he worked as a salesman, so the vinegary humor of the card was apparently directed at him. The Salesman His motto is still do or die And he nags you until you must buy. His line is complete And his nerve hard to beat But sometimes he goes on the fly. Signs, etc., in illustration: Office. This is our busy day. Samples. This way out. 85% discount to jobbers. Expense account.

"Advice to Vacationists. Take the children to the country with you--this will keep you from becoming lonesome. Hey. Help. Help. Splash. August Hutaf. P.C.K. 1908." One in a series of humorous "Advice to Vacationists" postcards by illustrator August Hutaf (1874-1942). For more of his work, see my other Hutaf postcards .

"The Revolt of Turkey. Bernhardt Wall. Copyright 1907 The Ullman Mfg. Co. New York. 2130." This appears to be a case of domestic poultry unrest rather than foreign political intrigue.

Written on the back of this photo: "Dennis & Little Francis. Thanksgiving."

"Here! Wait a moment till I check up this account and see if you've got all the things I ordered." See also Say, Mister, It's No Use You Going Down That Dirty Chimney (below).

"Say, mister, it's no use you going down that dirty chimney: jes give me the presents and I'll take them down and save you the time." Sent to Mrs. Ella Haglette, Allensville, Mifflin County, Pa., in 1908. See also Wait a Moment Till I See If You've Got All the Things I Ordered (below).

"Wishing you a Merry Christmas, and we are hoping to see your face again soon."