Antique Postcard 1919 WWI Soldiers Mail Monaco Museum Nice France AEF Army Leave History

Social History: John writes to his cousin Miss Dorothy Mahaffey in Pennsylvania about his 5-day journey to Nice and visit to the Musée Océanographique. The writing is a classic example of a WWI American soldier enjoying a well-deserved "leave" in the French Riviera after the war ended in November 1918.

Geneology Note: This postcard was sent to Miss Dorothy Mahaffey (age 13) at her family home at 586 East Third St., Williamsport, PA. The Mahaffeys were a prominent pioneer family in Lycoming and Clearfield counties, for whom the town of Mahaffey, PA is named.

Postal History: Sent just two months after the Armistice, this card is marked “Soldiers Mail" in the stamp box—a privilege granted to troops stationed abroad. It was cancelled in Nice, France, which served as a major "Leave Area" for American GIs awaiting their return to the United States.

Scene: Musée Océanographique de Monaco (The "Temple of the Sea")

Era: World War I / Reconstruction (1919)
Publisher: B.F. (Besnardeau Frères), Paris
Type: Printed Lithograph
Size: Standard 3.5 x 5.5"
Condition: The card shows light corner softening and typical aging. The handwriting is clear, dark, and perfectly legible.

This is an authentic vintage item. Use the zoom tool to inspect the photos for a detailed view of the condition.