Putnam History Museum digitizes 240 early 20th century Hudson River Valley postcards
Postcards open to the public to access and research
by HVNY Staff
The Putnam History Museum (PHM) recently announced the digitization and public availability of 240 early 20th century postcards showcasing the Hudson River Valley. The postcards, donated to the museum by Barry and Mary Jean (MJ) Ross of Garrison, highlight various scenes, activities, landmarks, and landscapes along the Hudson River, from New York Harbor to the river's source north of Albany.
Over the course of a year, PHM staff carefully catalogued and digitized the entire Barry and Mary Jean (MJ) Ross Hudson River Postcard Collection for inclusion on two publicly available databases: the PHM's own website and the larger New York Heritage database website. The PHM and Ross’ are pleased to announce that the postcards are now fully available online for viewing and research. The Ross' selected postcards prominently featuring the Hudson River, recognizing its incredible place in America's history, art, culture, and industry.
The Ross’ recommend viewing the collection in a south-to-north direction, starting with views of New York Harbor, and culminating in the Adirondacks. The postcards offer a glimpse into the river's significance and beauty, including its role as the birthplace of the first great American school of painting, the Hudson River School, to its role in the development of American tourism, commerce, and industry.
This project was completed with the Ross' financial support and with funding from the Humanities NY SHARP Grant Program. PHM is excited to share this collection with the public through various exhibitions and programs in the months and years to come. The Ross' donation will allow for continued research and appreciation of the Hudson River Valley's rich history and cultural significance.
For more information and to view the collection, visit the PHM's website: www.putnamhistorymuseum.org/rosshudsonriverpostcardcollection/ or the New York Heritage database: nyheritage.org.
