Tulare California Artesian Well Farmer Cowboy 1910s Postcard Unposted

This 1910s postcard records agricultural irrigation in California’s Central Valley through an image of an artesian well in operation near Tulare.

Water control and groundwater development reshaped farming in the southern San Joaquin Valley during the early twentieth century, allowing dry pastureland to be converted into productive fields. Artesian wells, which tapped pressurized underground water sources, were promoted as symbols of modern farming and technological progress, particularly in regions expanding fruit, grain, and livestock production.

The image shows a man in work clothes and hat standing beside a powerful stream of water erupting from the ground, with fenced pasture and low mountains visible in the background. His pose emphasizes the scale and force of the well, presenting irrigation as both practical and dramatic. The postcard is unposted, and the reverse shows period printing with light handling consistent with age.

The item shown in the listing is the exact item the collector will receive. We have tens of thousands of items to choose from. Shipping will always be combined (or refunded) to save you as much money as possible. Please contact us with any questions, or visit our store page for specifics.