This postcard although lacks written word. is full of sentimental and historical meaning. Published by Valentine & Sons LTD, this postcard is a part of a collection that includes hundreds of picture postcards. As Valentine & Sons LTD, was Scotland’s main producer of picture postcards. The first picture postcard was was a hand-painted design by Theodore Hook and was said to a joke on postal workers. This is because the hand drawn image is of workers in the post office. Picture postcards slowly progressed into a more contemporary style. In 1939, also known as the “chrome” era, images on postcards were typically modelled after coloured. photographs. This type of postcard is the ones we use and see today (Picture Postcard History) 

The picture included in this postcard is a scenic picture of Oban, Scotland. In Scottish Gaelic, Oban means “The Little Bay” and although it is described as little, it is the largest town between Fort William and Helensburgh. A famous tourist destination, Oban is home to significant battle bases that were utilized in several wars. Most notably in the Battle of the Atlantic in World War II, and the Cold War. Oban is also home to Duart Castle, the historic seat of the MacLean Clan. 

With everything known about this postcard, there are also many things not known. For example why this postcard was never sent. There is no stamp on the back or address to indicate it was sent to anyone. So it begs the question, why was it bought but never sent. Another example is the colouring of the plaid.The plaid does not belong to Maclean clan, so is the colouring significant?