Historical artifacts often come in the most unassuming packages. A scrap of paper, a faded photograph, or, in this case, a beautifully preserved real photograph postcard from January 1934. This postcard, featuring the serene waters of Burrator Lake near Plymouth, is more than just a piece of vintage ephemera; it is a time capsule that bridges the gap between the modern era and the interwar period of British history.
The Scene: Burrator Lake’s Timeless Beauty
The front of the postcard displays a stunning sepia-toned "real photograph" of Burrator Reservoir, often referred to as Burrator Lake. Situated on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, the reservoir was completed in 1898 to supply water to the growing city of Plymouth.
In this specific view, we see the iconic masonry dam with its elegant arches. The landscape is rugged yet peaceful, capturing the essence of Dartmoor’s wilderness. Looking closely at the foreground, a lone figure—perhaps a hiker or a local resident—sits on the grassy bank, gazing out over the water. This human element provides a sense of scale and a poignant reminder of the quietude that once defined this region.
In the background, the rolling hills and tors of Dartmoor rise against a soft sky. The image captures a moment of stillness, frozen in time just as the world was beginning to emerge from the Great Depression and slowly drift toward the uncertainties of the late 1930s.
The Message: A New Year’s "Surprise Parcel"
While the image on the front is a work of art, the reverse side of the postcard tells a deeply personal story. Postmarked in Plymouth on January 1, 1934, the card was sent as a New Year’s greeting.
The handwriting, elegant and characteristic of the era, conveys a message of gratitude and domesticity. The sender, likely a relative or close friend living in the Plymouth area, writes to a Mr. Martin at 101 Summerfield Crescent, Edgbaston, Birmingham.
The message reads:
"Many thanks for the surprise parcel & wishes for 1934. We all wish you all Best of Health & luck in 1934. We often visit this & the two tors in the distance. Putting car away until Easter now. Went to Billacombe yesterday to see Mrs. Woodley (who had 2 boys)."
Deciphering the 1934 Lifestyle
This brief message offers several fascinating insights into life in the 1930s:
The "Surprise Parcel": In an age before instant messaging and digital gift cards, the arrival of a physical parcel was a major event. It speaks to a culture of thoughtfulness and the importance of maintaining long-distance connections through the post.
The Rise of the Motorist: The mention of "putting car away until Easter" is particularly telling. In 1934, car ownership was growing but still a luxury for many. Moreover, cars were often "laid up" or "sorned" during the harsh winter months because anti-freeze was not widely used, and road conditions on Dartmoor could be treacherous. The car would be brought back out for "Easter," marking the official start of the spring touring season.
Local Geography: The mention of Billacombe (an area on the outskirts of Plymouth) and the "two tors" (likely Sheepstor and Leather Tor, which overlook Burrator) anchors the postcard in a specific physical reality. It shows that even then, Burrator was a popular destination for "Sunday drives" and nature walks.
Social Circles: The reference to Mrs. Woodley and her two boys adds a touch of local gossip and community news, the kind of "small talk" that makes historical documents feel so human.
The Postmarks and Stamps: A Collector’s Dream
For deltiologists (postcard collectors) and philatelists, the markings on this card are a treasure trove.
The Postmark: The circular date stamp from "PLYMOUTH" is clearly dated "1 JAN 34." It also features a "BRITISH INDUSTRIES" slogan cancel, a common promotional tool used by the General Post Office at the time to encourage domestic trade during the recovery from the economic slump.
The Red Overprint: Interestingly, there is a red overprint that mentions "LONDON & BIRMINGHAM," likely related to the postal sorting route or the British Industries Fair (BIF) which was a major event in those two cities.
Why This Postcard Matters Today
In our fast-paced, digital world, we often lose the "texture" of communication. This postcard reminds us of a time when sending a message required effort: choosing the right view, finding a pen, carefully composing a greeting, and walking to a red pillar box.
Burrator Lake remains a beloved destination today, managed by the South West Lakes Trust. While the "two tors" still stand sentinel over the water, the world around them has changed beyond recognition. This postcard allows us to step back into the shoes of someone standing on that bank in 1934, feeling the crisp January air and looking forward to the "Health & luck" of a new year.
Whether you are a resident of Plymouth, a native of Birmingham, or simply a lover of British history, this 1934 postcard is a beautiful reminder of the enduring power of a simple "thank you" and a New Year’s wish.
