Valentines and Leap Year 2008

Every fourth year, an extra day in the calendar resynchronizes earthly time with cosmic time. This year, on February 29, 2004, a day is added to our calendar, creating Leap Year. In a curious, centuries-old custom, ladies are traditionally given the opportunity to boldly, and legally, propose marriage -- throughout the year. Considering the restrictions on women's freedoms for so long, the privilege to declare their love was quite astonishing.

It became a merry excuse for parties, games, and the extensive Leap Year memorabilia, which includes lace or comic valentines, popular "Sadie Hawkins" dance programs, and the wide range of postcards from the early 1900's.

The Nancy Rosin Collection contains a wide assortment of Leap Year Valentines! There are funny, sentimental, and even little calling cards, which would be presented to a beau whom you desired to walk you home! Take advantage of this unique opportunity!

Click on the images below to display them at a larger size in a separate window. High resolution versions are available upon request for commercial use.

 

"Valentine Ball"
Invitation to a Leap Year Ball on Feb. 13, 1856 in West Ashford, Connecticut.

"Leap Year - or Love in Plenty"
Published 24 March 1800 by Laurie & Whittle, 53 Fleet Street, London.

 

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Valentine History and Gifts at Victorian Treasury

NANCY ROSIN