Camp McCain (MS) Postcard, Free Franking

Description

This striking linen-era postcard was mailed from Camp McCain, Mississippi, on March 29, 1944, during the height of World War II. The bold design features oversized “Greetings from Camp McCain” lettering over a battlefield scene with an American tank, crossed rifles, crossed artillery pieces, and military signal flags.

Camp McCain, located near Grenada, Mississippi, was established by the War Department in 1942 as a major infantry training center. More than 50,000 soldiers, including the 87th and 94th Infantry Divisions, trained there before deployment to the European Theater. Later in the war, the camp also housed thousands of German prisoners of war.

The reverse contains a handwritten message from a serviceman:

“Darling, I know you’re lonely so I’m sending you this. I hope you like it. And I’ll send more soon. Bye now. I’ll write soon. All my love…”

The card is addressed to Margaret Elnwick (as written) in Port Lavaca, Texas, and bears a Camp McCain, Miss. postmark dated March 29, 1944. The sender’s return address identifies him as a member of the 94th Quartermaster Battalion, providing an additional historical connection to the units stationed at Camp McCain during the war.

Published by Bluff City News Co., Memphis, Tennessee, the postcard is a classic example of colorful American linen postcards produced during the 1930s and 1940s.

Condition

• Original mailed postcard
• Camp McCain cancellation dated March 29, 1944
• Handwritten message and address
• Noticeable vertical center crease
• Light corner and edge wear consistent with age
• Good overall eye appeal despite the crease