The front of the postcard features a stunning elevated perspective, captioned "Princes Street from Scott Monument, Edinburgh." Taking this photograph would have required the photographer to ascend the 287 steps of the Gothic spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.
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| Princess Street from the Scott Monument, Edinburgh |
Architectural Landmarks
The composition is a masterclass in urban landscape photography:
The Royal Scottish Academy: In the foreground, the unmistakable Doric columns of the Academy stand prominently. To its left, we see the lush greenery of the Princes Street Gardens, which separate the New Town from the Old Town.
The Skyline: In the distance, the spires of St Mary’s Cathedral pierce the horizon, while the dome of the Usher Hall or perhaps the West End buildings can be spotted against the backdrop of the Corstorphine Hill.
The Street Life: If you look closely at the street level, you can see the hustle and bustle of 1934. Trams—a staple of Edinburgh life until 1956 (and famously returned in the 21st century)—line the tracks. Vintage automobiles and pedestrians in cloche hats and overcoats populate the sidewalks, many gathered under the distinctive striped awnings of the grand department stores like Jenners and Forsyth’s.
The Human Touch: Postmarks and Personal Notes
While the image provides the historical context, the reverse of the postcard provides the soul. It was mailed to a Miss M. Welham at "Hill Rise," Surbiton Hill Road, Surbiton, Surrey.
The Postmark and Stamp
The card features a crisp Edinburgh postmark dated April 21, 1934. The postage used is a classic red One Penny stamp featuring King George V. In 1934, a penny was the standard rate for inland postcards, a reminder of a time when daily mail was the primary "social media" of the era.
The Message from Nancye
The handwriting is fluid and casual, written by someone clearly enjoying her holiday despite the famously fickle Scottish weather. The message reads:
"Am having gorgeous time, in spite of weather. Have been here since Tuesday & return end of week. Thanks for letter last received. I have forgotten what it said now, but never mind—my love to all & you. Nancye"
There is something incredibly relatable about Nancye’s note. Her admission that she has "forgotten" what the previous letter said, but is writing anyway just to send love, bridges the 90-year gap between her world and ours. It reflects the "wish you were here" sentiment that has defined travel for over a century.
The Maker: Valentine’s of Dundee
The card bears the hallmark of Valentine & Sons, a prolific Scottish printing company. Founded in Dundee, Valentine’s became one of the world's leading producers of postcards. By the time this card was printed in the 1930s, their "Real Photograph" series was highly prized for its clarity and depth compared to cheaper lithographic prints. The logo featuring the two globes and the slogan "Famous Throughout the World" was a point of immense civic and corporate pride.
Why This Postcard Matters to Collectors
For a deltiologist (a postcard collector), this item is a "triple threat":
Topographical Interest: It documents the specific layout of a UNESCO World Heritage site before modern renovations.
Social History: It captures the fashion, transport, and communication habits of the Great Depression era.
Condition: The card is remarkably well-preserved. The "Real Photo" finish has kept its contrast, and the stamp and postmark are legible, which adds significant value for those interested in postal history.
Then vs. Now
If you stood on the Scott Monument today, much of this view would remain recognizable. The Royal Scottish Academy remains a cultural pillar. However, the shopfronts have changed, the horse-drawn echoes of the previous century are long gone, and the sea of umbrellas Nancye likely encountered would now be joined by thousands of smartphones capturing the same iconic vista.
This postcard is more than just paper and ink; it is a time capsule. It reminds us that while the "weather" in Edinburgh might be a constant struggle for tourists, the beauty of the city and the urge to share it with loved ones at home is timeless.
