Greetings From Asheville

Before e-mail, before the television, before the telephone–there was the picture postcard. Picture postcards combined personal correspondence, souvenir, and advertising in a package that was affordable for both local attractions to create and the average individual to purchase.

This exhibition explores how the land, the people, and the built environment of Asheville and its surrounding environs were interpreted through early 20th century vintage postcards. Some images show the sophisticated architecture of the region, including views of downtown Asheville, the Biltmore Estate, and Grove Park Inn. Other images show views of the scenic mountains and landscapes that first drew tourists and outdoor enthusiasts to the region.

A wide range of individuals and companies produced postcards picturing the region. Though postcard images are often anonymous, many in this exhibition feature images by well-known photographers like Henry Martin, Herbert Pelton, Ewart Ball, and George Masa. Both local businesses and national and international firms published the images to sell as souvenirs. The Asheville Postcard Company was one of the largest postcard publishers in the early twentieth century, producing images from across the United States as well as those of local scenes.

Asheville has always responded to changing social and environmental factors–from the introduction of the railway in the 1880s to emerging as an art deco tourist destination in the 20th century to rebuilding after hurricane Helene. As you explore these snapshots of historic Asheville and the surrounding region captured in these postcards, take a moment to imagine what future transformations lie ahead.