From the 1890s through the 1920s, the postcard was an extraordinarily popular means of communication, and many of the postcards produced during this "golden age" can today be considered works of art. Postcard photographers traveled the length and breadth of the nation snapping photographs of busy street scenes, documenting local landmarks, and assembling crowds of local children only too happy to pose for a picture. These images, printed as postcards and sold in general stores across the country, survive as telling reminders of an important era in America's history. This fascinating new history of New Jersey's Somerset County showcases more than two hundred of the best vintage postcards available.

From the 1890s through the 1920s, the postcard was an extraordinarily popular means of communication, and many of the postcards produced during this golden age can today be considered works of art. Postcard photographers traveled the length and breadth of the nation snapping photographs of busy street scenes, documenting local landmarks, and assembling crowds of local children only too happy to pose for a picture. These images, printed as postcards and sold in general stores across the country, survive as telling reminders of an important era in Americas history. This fascinating new history of New Jerseys Somerset County showcases more than two hundred of the best vintage postcards available.

When Somerset County, named in honor of Lord Baltimore's sister Lady Mary Somerset, was first established by the Colony of Maryland in 1666, it encompassed more than 16,000 square miles on the Eastern Shore, including what are today's Worcester and Wicomico Counties and part of lower Delaware. By the end of the 18th century, the county, much smaller in geography by then, had become home to more than 15,000 residents. Communities such as Crisfield, Deal Island, Princess Anne, Smith Island, and others have thrived since that time, with the industries of agriculture, seafood, and tourism sustaining the hardworking and spirited residents who have made their home in this county by the Chesapeake Bay.

From the 1890s through the 1920s, the postcard was an extraordinarily popular means of communication, and many of the postcards produced during this "golden age" can today be considered works of art. Postcard photographers traveled the length and breadth of the nation snapping photographs of busy street scenes, documenting local landmarks, and assembling crowds of local children only too happy to pose for a picture. These images, printed as postcards and sold in general stores across the country, survive as telling reminders of an important era in America's history. This fascinating new history of Wicomico County and Delmar showcases more than two hundred of the best vintage postcards available.

Located in the center of the Delmarva Peninsula on the Wicomico River, Salisbury is a town steeped in history. Formed by an act of provincial legislature in 1732, Salisbury lies on the east bank of the river on the original land of William Winder. Salisbury developed into the commercial center of the peninsula by the time of the Civil Warit was the southernmost point at which all goods were shipped north. This strategic location also made Salisbury the distribution point for goods coming south, an advantage that placed the region at the center of the states economic boom. In 1867, Wicomico County was formed and Salisbury was chosen as the county seat. In the 20th century, Salisbury prospered into a communication and financial center for all of lower Maryland.

Glimpses of this treasured destination as it looked in years past will delight vacationers and residents for years to come. Rehoboth Beach is heralded as the "nation's summer capital." Located along the Atlantic Coast within 100 miles of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia, Delaware's treasured resort has provided millions of tourists with unforgettable memories along its mile-long boardwalk and white, sandy beach. Vintage postcards and photographs will allow readers to experience the thrill of this renowned beach and see why many have made Rehoboth their choice for vacations, holidays, and getaways time and time again-and why some call it home year-round. This photo album features then-and-now scenes of the beach, documents the rise of other attractions surrounding the area, pays homage to storms that shook the seacoast, and showcases some of the people, festivals, hotels, and motels that make this a special place to visit.

In 1772, Native Americans granted land in the Tuscarawas Valley to Moravian missionary David Zeisberger, and he established the Christian community of Schoenbrunn Village, which remained until 1777 when members were forced to relocate. Then in late 1804, John Knisely, his family, and other pioneers braved the western frontier and settled on the Tuscarawas River near the Schoenbrunn Village site. On October 23, 1804, John Knisely founded the town of New Philadelphia. He was a great philanthropist, donating land to the city for future public buildings, guaranteeing its selection as the Tuscarawas County Seat. In Schoenbrunn Village, which has been partially excavated and rebuilt as a historic site in New Philadelphia, missionaries lived in harmony with Native Americans, and so it seems fitting that New Philadelphia, through the influence of John Knisely's generosity, has maintained its image as the new "city of brotherly love." Two hundred years later, the city strives to keep Knisely's dream alive with its generous allocation of resources and commitment to those in need.