Introduction

“There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.” — Jane Austen, Emma

February 14th marks Valentine's Day each year, a celebration named in honor of one St. Valentine. Though the namesake's origin is of some dispute, and uncertainty, what is certain is that this year, we could all use a little extra love.  

In honor of Valentine's Day, and for all those perusing the digital universe in search of some good news, and happy endings, staff of the DeGolyer Library put together  a sampling of romantic stories, of cards and love letters from the past.

From the stacks in the Southern Methodist University Archives, to the postcards in the DeGolyer Prints and Photographs collections, and the ladies of the Archives of Women of the Southwest, these items depict the butterflies of new relationships, the heartfelt terms of endearment of long time couples, highlight the pangs of loneliness for long distance lovers, and provide insight into how men and women expressed their feelings of love and adoration across time and miles.