This vintage linen postcard offers a captivating glimpse of Bath House Row in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, circa 1949. The topographical view showcases the grandeur of the bathhouses lining the street, with the imposing Army and Navy Hospital prominently featured on the left. Lush landscaping frames the scene, evoking the tranquil atmosphere of this renowned spa town. The postcard, produced by Woodcock Mfg. Co. using the Genuine Curteich-Chicago "C.T. Art-Colortone" process, bears the cryptic catalog numbers "193" and "1B-H1546," details that pique the interest of deltiologists and ephemera enthusiasts. The card's condition is good, showing wear commensurate with its age, including slight ink bleed-through from the handwritten message on the reverse. Close inspection reveals minor corner bumps and edge wear, typical of a postcard that has traveled through the postal system. The 1-cent green United States postage stamp is clearly postmarked 1949, adding to the postcard's philatelic value.
The handwritten message, a testament to the postcard's journey through time, mentions "Hot Country, Travel," "a good Bath," and a reference to Virginia, hinting at the sender's experiences and intended recipient. The postcard, addressed to Roanoke, VA, encapsulates a moment in 1940s America, reflecting themes of travel, leisure, and the allure of Hot Springs' therapeutic waters. This piece of Arkansas history offers a fascinating study for collectors interested in vintage travel, spa culture, and the architectural heritage of Bath House Row. The presence of the Army and Navy Hospital adds another layer of historical context, reminding us of the institution's role in the community. Keywords relevant to this numismatic treasure include: "linen postcard," "topographical view," "Arkansas history," "vintage travel," "spa town," "Army Navy Hospital," "Hot Springs," "Bath House Row," and "1940s."