34 Adorable And Funny Thanksgiving Postcards From The Past That Are Plainly Strange
"If you like me meet me on 'Thanksgiving Day' at the dinner table. - Baby Arthur"
You are familiar with Thanksgiving if you are from any nation that observes it. It is rather more difficult for the rest of the world to comprehend, and our purpose is to educate you.
The term comes from the fact that it is essentially a day to express gratitude for the events of the previous year. It happens every fourth Thursday of November, at least in the United States.
Simultaneously, it is observed on the second Monday in October in Canada. Way back in 1863, a family dinner was typically held to commemorate Thanksgiving.
It usually consists of, among other things, turkey, potatoes, corn, cranberries, and pumpkin pie. If you're an American, you're probably getting ready for Thanksgiving by cooking, visiting family, or doing something similar.
If you're from somewhere else, you've undoubtedly seen Americans getting ready for this holiday online and may even hope that your culture would observe it as well. In any case, this list offers plenty of ideas to get you in the mood for Thanksgiving.
It includes a variety of vintage postcards regarding the occasion. Turkeys, the birds consumed during the feast, dominate the pictures in today's roundup of vintage Thanksgiving postcards.
You'll see that almost all of the postcards we included feature the bird. Let's have a look, but if you have meleagrisphobia—a fear of turkeys—be careful!
1. From me to you
apceveryday2. A Thanksgiving basket
unmoderated3. I come bearing a lot of food
ewan traveler
Historical Context
Dr. Susan K. Miller, a cultural historian, emphasizes that Thanksgiving postcards from the past reflect societal values and humor of their time. They serve as a unique lens into American culture, showcasing how humor evolved alongside changing family dynamics and social norms.
According to Dr. Miller, these postcards often reveal a blend of nostalgia and irony, which can be quite telling of the periods they represent. She notes, 'These artifacts are not just cards; they are snapshots of human experience and connection.'
4. The cooking is going on
Pit-Guitar
5. May you be satisfied on Thanksgiving
unmoderated
6. Here we go again
The New York Public Library
Exploring the peculiarities of Thanksgiving postcards, Dr. Barry Schwartz, a psychologist known for his work on choice and happiness, points out the importance of gratitude in our lives. He explains, 'Thanksgiving serves as a reminder to reflect on what we appreciate, fostering social bonds and community.' This emphasis on gratitude can actually enhance well-being, reducing feelings of isolation.
Schwartz highlights that even quirky postcards can spark joy and laughter, reminding us that humor is a vital component of familial connections during the holiday season.
7. A turkey is going down
Pit-Guitar
8. A cheap feed for Thanksgiving
Pit-Guitar
9. It's a happy Thanksgiving
Pit-Guitar
Cultural Reflections
Dr. Anne Applebaum, a historian and author, notes that Thanksgiving postcards often illustrate the tension between tradition and modernity. In her extensive research, she has observed that these cards can carry messages that reflect prevailing cultural attitudes, such as the commodification of holidays.
Applebaum argues that understanding these shifts can help us navigate contemporary celebrations: 'By looking at the past, we can better appreciate the present and work towards a future that honors both tradition and innovation.'
10. "Please do not annoy the family tomorrow at dinner, for children should be seen and not heard. Please reserve a Southern break away for me. Jack. "
CV880
11. An American turkey?
Pit-Guitar
12. Let's go for a ride
Pit-Guitar
Dr. Brené Brown, a leading researcher on vulnerability, emphasizes the role of storytelling in human connection. She believes that postcards, especially the whimsical ones from Thanksgiving, serve as an avenue for sharing stories that bring families together.
Brown states, 'It's through shared narratives that we create a sense of belonging, and these postcards are a delightful reminder of that connection, even if they seem odd or outdated.' Embracing our past can strengthen our present family ties.
13. This is my spot
Pit-Guitar
14. It's a joyful Thanksgiving
Pit-Guitar
15. Before and after Thanksgiving dinner
apceveryday
Humor's Role
Psychologists suggest that humor can be a powerful tool for alleviating stress during family gatherings. Dr. Paul Bloom, a cognitive scientist, explains that laughter can create an atmosphere of warmth, fostering deeper connections among family members. 'Humor allows us to navigate the complexities of relationships, especially during emotionally charged times like Thanksgiving,' he notes.
Incorporating humorous elements, like funny postcards, can serve as conversation starters, making gatherings more enjoyable and less tense.
16. Here's as strong a request
unmoderated
17. Let's get to work
Toronto Reference Library
18. The Thanksgiving day greeting
unmoderated
Dr. John Hattie, an education researcher, indicates that nostalgia plays a crucial role in shaping our cultural identity. He notes that Thanksgiving postcards evoke memories, which can enhance emotional well-being by connecting individuals to their past and reinforcing family traditions.
Hattie suggests that sharing such postcards during gatherings could foster meaningful discussions about family heritage, allowing younger generations to appreciate their roots and the quirky humor that shaped their ancestors.
19. We're preparing for Thanksgiving
ChristiesCurios
20. The turkey is arriving
Pit-Guitar
21. One for each person
Pit-Guitar
Encouraging Gratitude
To enhance the Thanksgiving experience, Dr. David Katz, a public health expert, recommends incorporating gratitude practices into family traditions. He states, 'Expressing gratitude can significantly improve mental health and strengthen familial bonds.' One simple approach is to share what each family member is thankful for before or during the meal.
This ritual not only fosters connection but also promotes a positive atmosphere that can transform the Thanksgiving gathering into a more meaningful experience.
22. That is a fast swap
apceveryday
23. From me to you
Pit-Guitar
24. A peaceful Thanksgiving
Pit-Guitar
Dr. Judith Beck, a cognitive therapist, suggests that incorporating humor into Thanksgiving traditions can help families navigate potential conflicts. She asserts, 'Using light-hearted postcards can serve as an icebreaker, alleviating tension before it escalates.' This approach encourages open communication and laughter among family members, which is crucial for a harmonious gathering.
Beck advises families to intentionally create moments of joy, making room for humor as they share their unique Thanksgiving postcards.
25. More greetings to you
Pit-Guitar
26. Someone read it out please
otherdavelive
27. The turkey is ready for grabs
Pit-Guitar
Reflecting on Change
Dr. Heather Cox Richardson, a historian, points out that the evolving nature of Thanksgiving postcards mirrors broader societal shifts. She notes, 'These cards encapsulate changes in family structures and cultural norms, making them valuable historical documents.'
Richardson highlights that by examining these shifts, families can better understand their own traditions and adapt them to contemporary contexts, ensuring that Thanksgiving remains a relevant and cherished occasion.
28. "If you like me meet me on 'Thanksgiving Day' at the dinner table. - Baby Arthur"
Pit-Guitar
29. From the turkey and pumpkin
Pit-Guitar
30. A souvenir for Thanksgiving
eldersveld
Dr. Timothy Snyder, a historian, emphasizes the importance of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage. He argues that Thanksgiving postcards, with their humorous depictions, offer a unique perspective on historical events and familial relationships.
Snyder suggests that families should engage in discussions about the stories these cards tell, allowing younger generations to grasp the significance of their cultural history, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for the holiday.
31. A good wish for Thanksgiving
apceveryday
32. A good wishes turkey
birdhousebooks
33. The turkey is standing by
its_m_reilly
Conclusion
The insights offered by experts underscore the multifaceted nature of Thanksgiving postcards, revealing their cultural, emotional, and historical significance. By engaging with these quirky artifacts, families can foster deeper connections through shared narratives and humor.
As Dr. Brené Brown articulates, storytelling is a powerful tool for building relationships. Engaging with our past through these postcards not only brings joy but also strengthens bonds and enriches our understanding of family dynamics during the holiday season.
34. Nice art
its_m_reilly
If we're sincere, it's possible that your thoughtfully chosen Christmas card will be overlooked in the frenzy of December joy. Your well-wishes stand out long before other Christmas cards start coming in, so sending a Thanksgiving card well in advance of the holiday rush makes them more of a pleasant surprise.
This list above entails postcards from the past, but they're nothing short of what we're talking about. Leave your thoughts about these postcards in the comments section below, and share as well.
Psychological Framework & Solutions
In conclusion, the blend of humor and nostalgia reflected in Thanksgiving postcards serves as a delightful reminder of the importance of family connections. Experts emphasize that these quirky artifacts can spark conversations, foster gratitude, and enhance emotional well-being. By embracing the stories behind these postcards, families can celebrate their heritage while creating new memories that honor both the past and the present. Engaging in practices like sharing gratitude before meals can further enrich these gatherings, transforming Thanksgiving into a truly meaningful occasion.
