Valentine’s Day is synonymous with love, romance, and heartfelt gestures. But did you know that the tradition of sending Valentine’s cards dates back centuries? The first-ever Valentine’s Day card is a fascinating piece of history, filled with mystery, romance, and cultural significance.
From its origins in a prison cell to its survival through the ages, this card has a story that will leave you amazed. Let’s dive into 11 mind-blowing facts about the first Valentine’s Day card and uncover the secrets behind this timeless tradition.
1. Written in a Prison Cell
The first-ever Valentine’s Day card was penned by Charles, Duke of Orleans, in 1415. While imprisoned in the Tower of London after the Battle of Agincourt, he wrote a love letter to his wife, Bonne of Armagnac. This heartfelt note is considered the oldest surviving Valentine’s card, showcasing how love can flourish even in the darkest of times.
2. A Poem Disguised as a Card
The card wasn’t a simple note but a poetic masterpiece. Charles wrote a romantic poem in French, expressing his longing and affection for his wife. This poetic approach set the tone for future Valentine’s cards, which often included verses and rhymes to convey deep emotions.
3. Survived Over 600 Years
Miraculously, the card has survived for over six centuries. It is now preserved in the British Library in London, where it remains a testament to the enduring power of love and the historical significance of Valentine’s Day traditions.
4. A Symbol of Medieval Romance
The card reflects the medieval concept of courtly love, where knights and nobles expressed their admiration and devotion through chivalric gestures.
This tradition laid the foundation for modern Valentine’s Day customs, blending romance with artistry.
5. Written on Parchment, Not Paper
Unlike modern cards, the first Valentine was written on parchment, a durable material made from animal skin. This choice of medium contributed to its survival, as parchment is more resistant to decay than paper.
6. A Secret Message of Hope
Beyond its romantic content, the card also carried a message of hope. Charles wrote it not only to express love but also to reassure his wife during his imprisonment. This dual purpose makes it a poignant symbol of resilience and devotion.
7. The First Valentine’s Card Was Never Delivered
Despite its heartfelt message, historians believe the card never reached Bonne of Armagnac. Tragically, she passed away before Charles was released from prison, adding a layer of melancholy to this romantic artifact.
8. Inspired by a Saint’s Legacy
The card was inspired by the legend of Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who secretly performed marriages for soldiers forbidden to wed.
His story of love and sacrifice became the foundation for Valentine’s Day, making the card a tribute to his legacy.
9. A Rare Glimpse into 15th-Century Love
The card provides a rare glimpse into how love was expressed in the 15th century. Its language, style, and themes offer valuable insights into the cultural and emotional landscape of medieval Europe.
10. The Birth of a Billion-Dollar Industry
The first Valentine’s card sparked a tradition that evolved into a global phenomenon. Today, over 1 billion Valentine’s cards are exchanged annually, making it one of the most popular holidays for expressing love.
11. A UNESCO Memory of the World Candidate
Due to its historical and cultural significance, the card has been proposed for inclusion in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. This recognition would highlight its importance as a priceless artifact of human heritage.
The first-ever Valentine’s Day card is more than just a romantic note—it’s a window into history, love, and the enduring power of human connection. Its story continues to inspire millions, reminding us that love transcends time and circumstance.
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Anne Kostick has been Editor-in-Chief since September 2007. Previously, Anne was a principal at Foxpath IND, a publishing, consulting and editorial services company specializing in the transition to and from traditional content publishing and online content management, development and publishing. Her clients included trade book publishers, technology and financial services Web sites, and arts and cultural institutions. Previously, she worked as Licensing and Product Development Director, Senior Acquisitions Editor and Director of Electronic Publishing for Workman Publishing, and as Senior Acquisitions Editor for Harry N. Abrams/Stewart, Tabori & Chang. In the online world she worked as Director of Content Development for Vitaminshoppe.com. Anne has a B.A. in Greek and Latin, with a minor in Theater, from Beloit College. She is the author of several books for children, as well as a definitive collection of jokes.