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While picture postcards reached their peak of popularity between 1900 and 1914, they continue to intrigue and amuse correspondents one hundred years later. It is hard to imagine taking a vacation and not sending postcards to friends and family. What is often overlooked when we scribble a message on the back of a postcard is the story that the history of this form illuminates, one crossing the boundaries of art, technology, business, and politics. The popularity of postcards occurred at the beginning of the twentieth century, mirroring the tumultuous changes of the time. Many individuals purchased postcards while traveling; these cards were used as a mnemonic device. Images of resorts also reflected the new wealth and leisure enjoyed by members of a growing middle class. Transportation -- by rail, steamship, air, and auto -- was a subject of many cards and shows the period's obsession with speed and advancement. The concept of advancement is also reflected in postcards featuring architectural achievements such as the Brooklyn Bridge, the Eiffel Tower, or the Woolworth Building in New York City. Finally, the small format of the postcard, which only allowed for brief messages, reflects the interest in efficiency prominent during this time. Incredibly enough, the small postcard tells a big story.