TUCK'S OILETTE POSTCARDS

In 1866 Raphael Tuck and his wife Ernestine began selling pictures and greetings cards. Their company 'Raphael Tuck & Sons', based at Bishopsgate in the City of London became successful after it started producing postcards. When Raphael Tuck died in 1926 his sons continued the business, During the Second World War, the company headquarters, Raphael House, was bombed in the Blitz. The originals from many of their pictures were lost and the company struggled to recover from the loss. 

High Street and Town Hall. The Town Hall and Public Offices of Ilford make a handsome show in the High Street. They are fine buildings, designed by Mr. B. Woollard, in the Free Classic style, with a frontage on the High Street of 115 feet. The foundation stone was laid in March, 1900, and the building was opened in 1901. (Description taken from back of postcard)

There is a personal message on the back of this postcard: "Dear John, Off Yarmouth Saturday. Write c/o Mrs Curtis, 9 Ordnance Road. Youngsters fairly well. Love to all, WST"  Postmark: 27 JY 05.

The Broadway, Ilford. In this, the handsome main street of the rising borough, stands a handsome clock-tower and drinking-fountain built of Portland stone. It was erected in 1901, and is a gift to the town from Councillor W. P. Griggs. (Description taken from back of postcard)

"Dear Frieda, I have kept my promise, here it is. Hope you like this. Love Frank"

Postmark: AU 14 07

The Parade, Cranbrook Road.

"Dear Bessie & Auntie, can you manage to come in July or August instead of June, because Henry forgot they would be stocktaking in June & he will have to be there then. I hope this will suit you. Love to all from all, I am yours lovingly Nancy. (Please Bessie when you see postcard of wooden dolly please me one as I gave mine to Ruby. My album holds 1000)" 

Postmark: FE 28 05

Cranbrook Castle, Ilford. In 1765 Sir Charles Raymond built a mausoleum shaped like a castle for his family. The chapel walls were two feet thick and even the strongest nails could not penetrate the mortar. The Bishop refused to consecrate the grounds which meant interments never took place there.

"Dear Mr H, The box arrived safely on Sunday morning, in which we thank you, but no a/c, the other will do when convenient to you both. Love from us all, will write again, E C J"  

Postmark: DE 28 04

The Wash, Cranbrook Road. This pretty glimpse of field and water is to be obtained on the Cranbrook Road, where long rural stretches alternate with fashionable parades full of bright shops and pleasant houses. Half-way down the hill the Wash goes underground, and passes under Broadway Market. (Description taken from back of postcard)

"What a beautiful picture of the Cathedral! You must have had a delightful day there! Of course I will meet you on Saturday - just let me know what time you will be at Ldn. Bridge & you will see me there. Give our very nicest messages to everyone - M.

Your latest arrived - 3.0 o'clock it shall be."

Postmark: 8 JY 26

Central Park, Ilford. The Boating Lake.

"Am spending the afternoon here. Ernest"

Postmark: JY 08 05

A Forest Road, near Epping. Here is a characteristic view of a road near the forest, not far from St. Thomas's Quarters, where the Keepers' cottages stand near the edge of a small open plain. The road is shaded throughout its length by the splendid beeches which are one of the glories of Epping Forest. (Description taken from back of postcard)

"To wish you a merry Xmas & a happy new year, Barbara"

Postmark: DE 24 06

Theydon Mount, Epping. Looking from Theydon Mount south, there is a very fine view over the Thames Valley to Kent. At the top of Theydon Mount is a large common covered in summer with brake fern, and with scattered pollard oaks growing on it. Under the shelter the view may be heartily enjoyed. (Description taken from back of postcard)



Postcard: unused.