Scene at Tonka Bay on Lake Minnetonka, Minn. - Vintage Early Chromolithograph Postcard
An original vintage postcard titled "Scene at Tonka Bay on Lake Minnetonka, Minn." Published by the prominent midwestern firm V.O. Hammon Publishing Co. (Chicago and Minneapolis), this early 20th-century card captures the peaceful, idyllic charm of the lake's booming resort era.
The front graphic features a beautifully detailed lakeside landscape. A packed dirt walking path curves gracefully alongside the shoreline of Tonka Bay, shaded by a dense canopy of old-growth trees. In the background on the left, a lakeside pavilion structure with a distinct red-roofed canopy peeks through the foliage. The print is numbered 607 along the vertical publisher text line on the back.
The reverse side boasts excellent postal history and regional interest:
- Postmark: Crisp, legible circular machine postmark from Claire, IA (Iowa), dated Jul 17, 1911 (stamped 8-AM).
- Postage: Features a crimson 2-Cent U.S. Postage stamp (George Washington) firmly affixed in the upper right corner.
- Publisher Markings: Features the classic early V.O. Hammon logo on the back, displaying an illustrated sailing ship crest labeled "Trade Mark".
The card includes an affectionate handwritten message in ink to a family member: "Sunday. Dear Mother - Have had a wonderful ride all day. Its a glorious day, and everything is fine. Expect to reach Madison tomorrow P.M. Will write from there. Nellie." It is addressed to Mrs. H. C. Shadbolt in Emmetsburg, Iowa.
Condition Details:
- Type: Vintage Posted Divided Back Era Chromolithograph Postcard.
- Publisher: V.O. Hammon Publishing Co., Chicago and Minneapolis (Card No. 607).
- Postmark Date: July 17, 1911 (Claire, Iowa).
- Stamp: 2-Cent Red George Washington Stamp.
- Edges/Corners: Very good vintage condition. Minimal softening at the corners and light edge wear consistent with a century-old postally transit card. No major folds, creases, or tears.
- Surface/Graphics: Colors remain bright, showing beautiful contrast between the green trees, the shaded path, and the blue waters of Lake Minnetonka. The reverse side has light handling ink transfer and minor aging marks that enhance its authentic character.