Dear Ma

Every postcard tells a story—to notify family that one has arrived at their destination safely, share an anecdote about their trip, and even just to keep in touch. We have four postcards sent between members of the Lloyd family from 1905 to 1908, offering enough detail to make us curious about more. Who is Mrs. M. E. Lloyd, to whom most of the cards are addressed? What about Jennie, who both received and sent updates? Who is Tillie, the primary sender of these postcards?

Some light investigation uncovered that “Ma” is Mary Elizabeth Lloyd, Jennie and Tillie were her daughters, who seem to have enjoyed returning to Cape May in the summertime. They prioritized communicating with their Ma, though the specificities mentioned in the majority of the cards we come across remain a mystery.

August 6, 1905

Sent to: Miss Jennie M Lloyd Phillipsburg Center County PA

Spending  the day here. Mr + Mrs Pierce are with us. Did not get the match but had them right. 

With love, Tillie   

Aug 6th .05

August 2, 1908

Sent to: Mrs. M. E. Lloyd 124 High Street Millville NJ

Arrived here safely Bessie met us at the depot. We are fixed all right. All together. Will write a letter tomorrow with love.

Jennie

Corner Perry Street & Beach Ave. c/o P.F. [we’re unable to make out the last name]

August 11, 1908

Sent to: Mrs. M. E. Lloyd 124 High Street Millville NJ 

Dear Ma:

Glad you got home safely. next time you write a letter don’t forget to put in enough red silk To pair my red skirt with. I guess it is going to be a little warm to-day. 

Love to all, 
Tillie

August 13, 1908

Sent to: Mrs M. E. Lloyd
124 High Street
Millville NJ 

Dear Ma: 

We will be home tomorrow save us some supper. Jennie says to suit yourself around Mrs  Dodd. 

Love to all,
Tillie