Patriotic Military Series of Postcards

This set of postcards was mailed out one each day between 8 and 12 September 1908, all postmarked Caldwell N.J. and addressed to either March, Gilbert, William, or Tommy Barrier at the same address in Belleville NJ, and signed Nellie or “Gypsie”

I assume they feature the life of one soldier, but if they do, he seems to be in a time warp – the 46 star flag (1908-1912) never changes over his lifetime, and although he’s a cavalry corporal in his 1902 style uniform (check out Scottvez’s post of his 1902 cap) the soldier becomes what appears to be a GAR veteran in his later years. I guess I’m being a bit unfair here, since the artist didn’t have a crystal ball to see into the future.

The cards were made in Germany, and bear the logo of a tree on a shield and A.S.B. over the number 283 in the lower left. Each has the same type Benjamin Franklin penny postage stamp affixed.

This came from the estate of a deceased relative, March Barrier, who would later serve in WWII, so he was only a very young child when these were sent. There are pin holes in all the cards, and I can’t help but to imagine that as a boy he might have had them tacked to his bedroom wall for display.

Card 1: As a little child in glee he cried for the red, white and blue, it’s bright colors he loved to see when his mother held the flag to view.

Card 2: As a school boy on the play-ground he cheered for the red, white and blue, when his mates stood round, waiting to see what he would do.

Card 3: As a lover he bade farewell to his sweetheart for the sake of red, white and blue, and went forth to take his part when the proper time was due.

Card 4: As a soldier bold and brave he fought for the red, white and blue, knowing it was victory or the grave when in battle on his steed he flew.

Card 5: As a veteran in old age he was loyal to the red, white and blue, which placed his name on the page of heroes the recording angel drew.