"To absent friends" (1917)
This is the earliest example of a ‘Christmas card’ in the archive. The page appeared in a magazine published by the Woolwich Polytechnic Athletic Club. This club was much like our modern day students union. The main difference was that you could stay a member of the athletics club long after graduating. The page reflects on the sacrifice of the students, staff, and alumni of Woolwich Polytechnic. Note the illustrated bird raising a toast to "absent ones", perhaps an affectionate depiction of the secretary who toasted at their Christmas gathering, or maybe a nod to the parakeets in Greenwich park.
"Merry Christmas Party" (1951)
Party like it’s 1951. Another of our older examples that while not a Christmas card, still oozes festive spirit. Whether it was the “non-stop dancing” in the gymnasium. Or the “Musaire the Merry Maestro of the Invisible Keyboard”, our students knew how to party. This invitation is a recent donation to our archive collection. It sits alongside other items from a single student’s time at Woolwich Polytechnic, from attending the day school to graduating from evening classes. This collection, like many others, showcases a personal story from our past.
College of Engineering and Science (1962)
Now on to our first Festive card proper! This card from 1962 is from the Woolwich Polytechnic College of Engineering and Science. It features a striking gold coat of arms and season’s greetings. The card also came with an important message. Addressed to “Head Masters and their Career Masters”, it informs of the Polytechnic’s credentials. This assured prospective students that the college was fit to provide an excellent education as we were an “Institution with Recognised Teachers."
"Some local views" (undated)
In 1970 we became Thames Polytechnic and retained many of our iconic campus buildings nestled in the heart of South London. This expertly illustrated greetings card includes views such as the Cutty Sark. The magnificent buildings of the Old Royal Naval College are also depicted. The buildings were designed by Sir Christopher Wren and would later go on to become our Maritime Campus in Greenwich.
"Avery Hill College, Eltham - Winter" (undated)
Founded in 1906, Avery Hill College was London County Council’s first residential teacher training college. It was renowned for its fantastic setting in the village of Eltham, and its excellent courses. Thames Polytechnic incorporated Avery Hill in 1986. The campus remains the home of our Education, Nursing, Social care and sports students. The card depicts a wintery scene from Avery Hill, a college where Christmas traditions were long held.
“Thames Polytechnic Centenary Year 1890-1990” (1990)
In 1990 we celebrated our Centenary. This card recognises the extraordinary commitment to education and unlocking potential. The card features the crest of Thames Polytechnic. The text inside the card explains how each aspect of coat of arms relates to our history. The design takes aspects from the institutions that have become one welcoming educational community. A fitting celebration of 100 years of achievement in the South East of England.
“Car Park, Permit Holders Only” (Undated)
Many of our historic Christmas cards have been to inform students of important events, or to bring attention to exciting developments. Yet, at Christmas time, there is always an opportunity to be a bit silly. This card is a humorous take on our historic city-based campus. Even Father Christmas cannot evade London transport troubles.
University of Greenwich (undated)
We became the University of Greenwich in 1992, and have continued to develop our campuses and Christmas cards. This card depicts the historic buildings we call home. One to note is the HMS Pembroke building in our Medway Campus. An old Naval Barracks, the buildings are the perfect home for our impactful and forward-thinking courses.
University of Greenwich (undated)
Our final two cards are the most colourful in the collection. We are proud of the diversity of talent that our students hold. To celebrate this, here are two examples of Christmas cards designed by our students. From the School of Architecture, these striking artworks are excellent examples of the creative work of our student body.
“New Years Resolutions for Art Students” (1917)
For anyone fearing the January blues, art students or otherwise, we have some excellent advice for you. From the same magazine volume as our first card, these handy tips should see you through the new year.
