The invitation was like none other. “Would you like to come and help me open a box of vintage stamps?” read the email. You don’t have to ask this girl twice. That’s how I met Graeme and Lois Connell.
An adventurer and author, Graeme calls Calgary home and we had been in touch before but this was an extra special occasion that warranted a meeting in person.
A mysterious box of stamps
Lois, a very talented artist, greeted me at the door and soon had a most delicious blend of Canadian cranberry tea brewing. I was so honored to be welcomed into their home and to be part of the opening of the mysterious box of letters.
Passed down through a family member Graeme and Lois found themselves with what could only be described as a bit of a treasure trove.
Old envelopes but no letters
There were hundreds of old envelopes with stamps from all over the world. Sadly the envelopes were all empty and no sign of the letters that once inhabited them.
The post marks were most interesting. You will notice the one above stating “compass direction necessary on mail in Calgary.” The city was divided into four geographical quadrants and remains so today. In 1959 it was a clearly a requirement to include the quadrant designation in the address.
Notice that all that was necessary for this letter to reach Mrs. Romane was simply the name of the town and the province. No house number, no street or road reference and no postal code.
The mysterious box of letters leave much to the imagination. Who wrote and received all this mail? And where are the letters? A man of espionage or missionary work?
No doubt, as you are reading this, Graeme is in his office typing away on his beautiful Hermes typewriter writing a book that is inspired by these stamps and envelopes.
What do you think is the story behind this mysterious box of letters?
Just to be able to touch, see and smell history like that, well, it simply gets me entranced!
Me too! It was amazing.
How exciting to be included in this mystery! There are numerous flea markets in the area we live in and most have a booth or two with boxes of old postcards. I can – and have – spent hours just reading all the messages and often take a couple home that I just can’t resist keeping. It’s so fun to imagine more about the letter or card writer’s life.
I too have spent far too much time pouring over old postcards at antique sales and the like…I much prefer the ones with messages on them. The handwriting alone is so endearing. Thanks for letting me know I’m not the only one, Ann. 🙂
That really is quite a mystery. I wonder if the person from whom he received the letters (envelopes) provides any clues. Quite the mystery. Envelopes are always a good bit of the enjoyment I receive from “snail” mail. Postmarks, ink color, smudges, handwriting or typing, the paper used to make the envelope. It all is very appealing to me.
Hi there Melanie, Isn’t it fascinating?! I just love it. And the stamps are so beautiful, miniature works of art I feel. I can’t wait to see what Graeme does with it for his new book.