The beauty of collecting vintage postcards lies in the intersection of two worlds: the scenic vista on the front and the intimate, often poignant, human narrative on the back. Recently, I added a particularly moving piece to my collection—a postcard from Herm Island in the Bailiwick of Guernsey.
While the front captures the serene, timeless beauty of the Channel Isles, the message on the reverse provides a deeply personal glimpse into a life marked by struggle, relief, and the simple joy of a "peaceful break."
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| Herm Harbour and West Coast |
The Scene: Herm’s Golden Coastline
The front of the postcard features a sweeping high-angle view of Herm Harbour and the west coast beaches. In the foreground, the lush, emerald greenery of the island slopes down toward the turquoise waters of the English Channel. You can see the small stone pier—the lifeline of the island—where the Trident ferry from Guernsey arrives.
Nestled into the hillside is the iconic Fisherman’s Cottage, a landmark that has greeted visitors for generations. For any collector of Channel Island memorabilia, this image represents the ultimate escape: no cars, no crowds, just the sound of the Atlantic and the cry of gulls.
The Message: Beyond the Scenery
While the photography is beautiful, it is the handwriting of a man named Michael that truly makes this item a standout in my collection. Written to an Olive M. Robinson in Pinner, Middlesex, the letter is a testament to the era when postcards were the primary way to share significant life updates.
A Journey Through "Traumatic" Times
Michael begins by thanking Olive for her "kind Easter greetings." He mentions that he and Gwen are enjoying a peaceful break after a "traumatic eighteen months." In our modern age of instant messaging, we often lose the weight of words. To write "traumatic" on a postcard—a public medium—suggests a period of immense gravity. However, the next sentence provides the emotional payoff that makes this postcard so special:
"I am delighted to be able to say that recent tests at the Royal Marsden show I am still 100% clear of the cancer at the moment."
The Royal Marsden is a world-renowned specialist cancer treatment centre in London. Knowing that this trip to the quiet shores of Herm followed a successful battle with illness transforms the scenic image on the front. The "peaceful break" wasn't just a holiday; it was a celebration of life.
Social Ties and Community
Michael goes on to mention mutual acquaintances—Pam Griffiths and Mary Richards—and expresses regret at missing "Sr. Bell’s retirement and this year’s reunion." These details highlight the social fabric of the time. Postcards served as the "social media" of the 20th century, keeping friends informed of health updates, reunions, and common connections across the miles.
Collector’s Corner: Philatelic and Geographic Details
For the technical collectors out there, this postcard is a treasure trove of local Guernsey history:
The Stamp: A 20p Guernsey stamp featuring a historic scene of a horse-drawn carriage.
The Postmark: It bears the "Herm Island" crest and a "Guernsey Post" cancellation. Herm is unique in that it has a long history of issuing its own stamps (local carriage labels) to transport mail to the main post office in Guernsey.
The Publisher: Designed and produced by The Guernsey Press Co. Ltd., a staple of local printing history.
Why This Postcard Matters
I collect these items because they remind me that every place has a story, and every traveller carries a burden or a blessing. Michael’s postcard is more than just "Herm Harbour"; it is a document of resilience.
When Michael looked out at the Fisherman’s Cottage and the west coast beaches in the late 20th century, he wasn't just looking at a view. He was looking at a world he had fought to stay in. This postcard serves as a beautiful reminder to appreciate our own "peaceful breaks" and the health that allows us to enjoy them.
In a digital world, let’s not forget the power of a handwritten note sent from a tiny island in the sea. It can carry a lifetime of hope.
