History of Hallmark Cards

Hallmark began producing their own Christmas greeting cards in 1915.  Their story begins in 1910 when an 18-year old ambitious entrepreneur named Joyce Clyde Hall started selling his picture postcards. With little money, he made a name for himself and his small business gained popularity.  His brother joined the business and the company was named Hall Brothers.
On January 11, 1915, a fire destroyed much of what they had and with $ 17,000 in debt, they almost gave up.  However, they decided to continue making their postcards.  Eventually, the postcards declined in sales and the brothers had to come up with a new product.  They decided to offer high-quality valentines and Christmas cards that were mailed in envelopes.  They purchased a printing press and begin producing their own greeting cards in 1915.
Hallmark's headquarters is located in Kansas City, Missouri.  It is the largest manufacturer of greeting cards in the United States.  In 1985, the company was awarded the National Medal of Arts. Picture illustrates children looking at a Christmas card store display in 1910.