This is a typical novelty card from the height of the postcard’s popularity. The tiny envelope is folded paper glued to the card, and the message is glued sparkles. Although the city or town name could be easily substituted on this kind of card, it is a reminder that Amsterdamians, then as now, like to see the name of their own city in print. (Courtesy of Rob von Hasseln.)

ON THE FRONT COVER: Here is Market Street, as seen north from Main Street sometime around the dawn of the 20th century. Although an industrial powerhouse, the city retains its human, urban scale. The downtown is easily walked, and streetcars run to all outlying parts. (Courtesy of Gerald R. Snyder.)

ON THE BACK COVER: Here are the McCleary, Wallin, and Crouse Mills, as viewed from Lyon Street. Originally an independent concern, when combined with one of the other two firms that made Amsterdam the “Carpet City,” they became the upper mills of Mohawk Mills—a brand name known throughout the United States and abroad. (Courtesy of Gerald R. Snyder.)