Within a decade of the automobile becoming a common fixture of American life, references to driving habits and “back-seat drivers” appeared as cultural references.

I have seen humorous comments written in postcard messages, and a few comic postcards, that referred to the irritating interference of non-drivers in the operation of the auto.

This postcard, however, displays the most direct and the most daring comment that I have found.

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On the face, a simple drawing shows a roadster automobile being driven by a man in the driver’s seat.

Behind him, a woman leans forward and chatters.

We infer that the subject of her commentary is the driver’s performance.

The printed legend proclaims:

“This car driven from left front seat ONLY!”

Below, we read further:

“Anyone who doesn’t like the way this car is operated, please observe the mistletoe on the driver’s coat tail.”

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The postcard was not mailed.

The postcard is made inexpensively, the paper is thin, the printing is rudimentary and there is no coloration.

Because of the good condition of the postcard, I do not believe that it was ever placed within an auto – as the message suggests is the intended purpose.

Presumably, some driver collected the postcard as a quiet protest – or someone who enjoyed the humor of the card saved it for repeated enjoyment.