Charming vintage linen postcard advertising “Cuddle Toys” from the Needlecraft Division of Berea College Student Industries in Berea, Kentucky. The colorful illustration features a delightful assortment of handmade stuffed toys including a giraffe, dog, rooster, duck, doll, and other fabric characters created in whimsical folk-art style patterns popular during the mid-century era.
This postcard is an excellent example of American educational, folk art, and textile advertising ephemera connected to the historic student labor program at Berea College. Founded in 1855, Berea College became nationally known for its unique educational mission where students earned part of their tuition through campus industries and crafts. The “Student Industries” program produced handmade furniture, textiles, woven goods, and needlecraft items that are now highly collectible pieces of Americana.
The reverse advertises the various toy designs along with original pricing, descriptions, and ordering information. The card notes the toys were “made by students who earn while they learn,” adding wonderful historical and social context. Listed toy names include Scotty, Snoopy the giraffe, Cocky Locky rooster, David Duck, Marianne, and Jack. The postcard also references waterproof kapok stuffing and celophane wrapping, both notable mid-century marketing details.
Printed by Curt Teich & Co., Inc. of Chicago, one of America’s most famous postcard publishers, this card is a classic linen-era postcard with bright colorized printing and textured paper stock characteristic of the 1930s-1950s period. The publisher marking reads:
“C.T. ART-COLORTONE Reg. U.S. Pat. Off.”
Card number: 8A-H744
Collector Details:
Highly desirable for collectors of:
Condition:
Vintage condition with age-related wear from handling and postal use. Includes corner wear, edge wear, surface wear, light creasing, album wear, writing on reverse, and postal markings/stamp. There are visible bends and wear near the corners and edges. Please use the eBay magnifier/zoom feature to closely inspect the postcard for detailed condition, including edges, corners, creases, surface issues, writing, discoloration, and any other imperfections prior to purchase.