The history of Valentine cards in North America owes a lot to Esther Howland. She popularized the cards when they were needed most. She made them popular during the Civil War.
Valentines were especially important during the Civil War. Loved ones were separated. They were many miles apart and feared they would never see each other again. That's according to Joan Itaska. She is a novelist who writes a long-running Civil War history blog.
Howland turned DIY cards into an industry and is sometimes called “The Mother of the Valentine.” Follow her advice to make your own sweet note.
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