This postcard is a photo of Peacock, Michigan circa 1908-1909. At that time, there was a north-south railway (Pere Marquette) and an east-west railway (Manistee & Grand Rapids) junction in Peacock. I believe that is what is shown by the crossed tracks in the foreground.
Peacock was named for David J. Peacock who became its first postmaster in April 1897. The Peacock post office was discontinued in January 1943. The postcard has a JAN 18 1909 Peacock Mich. postmark and was mailed to Mrs. Minnie McCloud of Cedar Rapid, Iowa with the following message:
Jan 17 1909Dear Sister I am sending you the picture of the City of Peacock. What do you think of it. I think it is a nice place. How is every thing out there. How is ...??
John Stotler
Below is an enlarged detail from the postcard. It is apparent that there is a store in the background, but its name is hidden by a semaphore.
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Both sides of the card leave something to be desired. John had horrible penmanship. Funny how a compliment on this week's post consists of telling someone how horrible their photo is!!
ReplyDeleteThe card may be a picture taken in Peacock but you can't see much more than the store but as it's more than a hundred years old it is worth having.
ReplyDeleteI wonder there is a local historical society around the Peacock area that could help you with the name of the store?
ReplyDeleteThat is a perfect photo for this weekend's theme and a true crossroads! I can't recall seeing a modern rail line that does that, so it is likely as dangerous as it looks. I looked up the "City of Peacock" (pop. 445) on Google Maps and trains don't appear to go past it anymore in any direction.
ReplyDeleteHow odd having a boardwalk straight from one's front door to the railway crossroads.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Wendy, that's appalling handwriting. A curious card altogether. What is that lady doing? Is she drinking?
ReplyDeleteOh my what a wonderful old photo! I agree with Little Nell quite curious too. Also on first opening of your post, at first I thought it was a man and a woman, until the photo was larger! It also fooled me!
ReplyDeleteWow, I had to find Peacock on the map, being born and raised in Michigan and I can't remember ever hearing about the town, and it's about 105 miles from Grand Haven a city that my aunt and uncle live in and we spent much time with them!
ReplyDeleteHow is Elton, possibly.
ReplyDeleteIt's a fascinating photo.
Peacock, MI was in my neck of the woods when we lived in Lake County. We went through it going to Traverse City.
ReplyDeleteA fine old photo with lots of mystery and puzzles to ponder! Excellent find!
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