The T. J. Pugh Picture Postcard Handbook 1907-1927
Postcards from an Important Canadian Publisher
By Michael Smith
Edited by Roger Miller
In 1896, Toronto entrepreneur T. J. Pugh established his first venture, the Art Embroidery Co. By 1903, he had founded the Pugh Manufacturing Co., later reorganized as the Pugh Specialty Co. in 1911. During the classic era of Canadian postcards (1895–1919), Pugh emerged as a significant force in the trade — so much so that he became the first president of Toronto’s Wholesale Postcard Dealers’ Association in 1915.
This deluxe handbook presents the full story of Pugh’s business and his lasting contribution to Canada’s postcard industry.
Inside, collectors and researchers will find:
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A detailed and carefully researched history of the Pugh enterprises and their role in the early postcard trade.
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Listings for more than 2,300 postcards issued by Pugh, including regular view cards, real photo postcards (RPPCs), fancy series and specialty productions.
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Close to 800 postcard illustrations, each reproduced in the card’s original colour of issue for accurate identification and reference.
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Four comprehensive appendices containing additional research material, including illustrations of all known Pugh postcard back types, salesman’s samples and related ephemera.
Meticulously organized and richly illustrated, this handbook serves as both a practical collecting guide and an authoritative reference on one of Canada’s notable Golden Age publishers.
Book Details
8.5 x 11 inches
Laminated soft cover
Spiral bound for ease of reference
192 pages
Extensively illustrated throughout
Printed entirely in full colour
An essential addition to the library of collectors specializing in early Canadian postcards and the history of Canada’s postcard industry.
