Postcard from a Giant Freighter Entering Duluth-Superior Harbor

This postcard was mailed 70 years ago today — Aug. 20, 1955. The caption on the card refers to the image as a “picture,” which likely means the illustration is based on a photograph.

The caption reads:

This picture was taken from the raised span of the Lift Bridge, 120 feet above the lake. This freighter is traveling light, with only water ballast, and soon will be at an iron ore dock, with its hatches open, with iron ore shooting into its hull.

The recipient of the postcard was Harry H. Ranft of Columbus Ohio. His friend Orirlle Rader sent the card from Larsmont. The handwritten message reads:

Dear Friend Harry: We are spending a week along the north shore of Lake Superior east of Duluth in Minnesota. We will probably be home by next Sunday. It has been hot here but pleasant at nights. Will spend a few days in Wisconsin and then home. See you then. — Orirlle Rader