History
Sailors' Valentines originated in the mid 1800's. The majority of
Sailors' Valentines came from the West Indies Island of Barbados,
a Port of Call for American and English ships.
Sailor's would buy or trade items for these nautical tokens as romantic
gifts to take home to their loved ones during their long voyages at sea.
The Valentines were made in octagonal wooden shadow boxes from
the
local seashells. Traditional designs include hearts, flowers, star shapes, rosettes, pictures and
sentimental messages such as, "To My Sweet-Heart" and "Forget-Me-Not".
Original Sailors' Valentines are rare and collected.
If one could be found
it would be quite pricey.
Sailors' Valentines is a craft that will continue for years to come.
As a gift, a Sailor's Valentine will always be a treasure.
