The Nelson Monument

By analysing this postcard, historians are able to determine not only the history of tourism and hotel popularity in Scotland, but they are also able to see the evolution of Edinburgh. The street view photo reveals architectural history of Scotland, and the Nelson Monument can be seen in the background of the photograph. Having documentation of significant infrastructure is valuable in dating historical events, and is helpful in determining cultural importance of the monument at the time (Stevens, 1995). Road quality and the absence of cars provide insight to historians about the economy and wealth of Edinburgh in the early 1900’s, and consequently the evolution of transportation in Scotland. The photo of the interior of the hotel shows the history of interior design and fashion by displaying what was likely considered classy and in style for the time.

This postcard was used as a means of quick communication, as Marie sent the postcard on Wednesday and told Harry to call her on Friday at noon. It should be noted that Marie was using the postcard as an arrangement for a phone call, similar to how people now may text someone to let them know they will be calling.

Ephemeral postcards don’t only provide primary historical resources, but their replaceable nature gives an insight to what life was like during that time period. Although the Darling's Regent Hotel postcard does not have a large monetary value, it is collectible as part of the Inglis series. As the Darling's Regent Hotel was located on a popular street in town, Waterloo Place was likely heavily photographed reducing the value of the postcard (Yeoman, 2007). It is also valuable to people who are familiar with Edinburgh who value seeing the evolution of the city over the century.