Antique Western Union Business Card Canon City Colorado Manager Nora G Lea 1920s

About the Item

Up for sale is a compelling piece of American telecommunications history: an original vintage business card for Western Union Telegraph and Cable, belonging to Miss Nora G. Lea, who served as the Manager of the office in Canon City, Colorado.

Dating to the early 20th century (Circa 1920), this card features the classic Western Union branding of the era—a striking rectangular logo with a central globe. The typography is a beautiful example of period business stationery, reflecting the professional authority held by Miss Lea. As a female manager in a major transit and industrial hub like Canon City, Nora G. Lea represents a significant era of women’s labor history within one of America’s first true "tech" giants.

The Inscriptions & Provenance

This card is historically remarkable for its connection to Canon City, Colorado, during its peak as a Western rail and mining center. As the manager of the Western Union office, Miss Lea would have overseen the vital flow of information for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, the local mining operations, and the Colorado State Penitentiary.

In an era when long-distance communication was synonymous with the telegraph, the local manager was a figure of immense responsibility. The use of the "Miss" prefix on a professional business card was standard for the time, but it underscores the unique status of a woman directing the operations of a "high-tech" communications hub. This is a superb piece of "Western Americana" and a tangible link to the social and professional infrastructure of early 1900s Colorado.

Item Specifications & Dimensions
Condition Report

The card is in good antique condition, showing the characteristic "toning" (natural yellowing) expected of century-old cardstock. The paper remains sturdy with relatively crisp edges and no major folds or tears. There is light foxing and a few minor age spots visible on the front and back, as seen in the high-resolution listing photos. The black ink remains bold and perfectly legible. Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description and show the exact condition of the piece you will receive.

Local Pickup Available in the Washington, DC Metro Area

If you are located in the Washington, DC metro area, you may pick up the item. Pickup must occur at the designated "Safe Exchange Zone" at the Manassas City Police Department, located at 9608 Grant Ave, Manassas, VA 20110. There is a designated, camera-monitored parking spot behind the public safety facility specifically for internet transactions. Pickup must occur in the late afternoon or early evening on a weekday. If you cannot meet at this location or during these times, please have the item shipped to you.