An unusual older black and white card with clouds in the sky and what looks like a rare windless day:
- a large crowd gathered around the beach in period clothing, perhaps an event of some sort is in progress. I think this is the largest crowd I have in the collection.
- the water level seems significantly higher than in other views – it covers most of the beach and much of the stone work on the south side of the beach
- a bridge near the old high dive is a surprise as are the building at the top of the photo
- the two white building to the left of the card that are unique as well
Given all this my first inclination was that this might not be a picture of our beach (perhaps another town or another locale in Parry Sound) but after some reflection I think it is:
- its Titled “Bathing Beach, Parry Sound, Ontario”
- published by George Moore from Parry Sound, Ontario who was a significant producer of Parry Sound postcards
- its postmarked from the Parry Sound postoffice
- the bathing area has the broad outline of the more familar beach
- and the letter writer talks about the 30,000 islands
- other cards in this series, particularly of Belvidere more clearly show what is likely a fishing hut at the end point with access provided by the small bridge which is required when the water table is high
Our card is addressed to Miss Gertrude Hoel from Evanston, Illinois from Clara.
They are having a nice trip to Parry Sound. Clara was disappointed that Gertrude couldn’t come down to the boat to see her off. Presumably Clara travelled by ship as she mentions passing through the 30,000 islands while dressing in the morning. She identified Parry Sound as “a quaint underdeveloped town”. There are more sights to see. Love is offered.
We have two postmarks, or more accurately a Postmark and a cancellation mark over a 2 cent George V stamp. The card is dated july 19, 1920 and is stamped the next day on July 20, 1920.
This curious card is one of my favourites.