A 1970s writing set reveals the lost art of handwritten letters

This fountain pen and wax seal set isn’t just an artifact—it’s a portal to an era when every word was written with intention. Why do small objects tell the biggest stories?

, and Administrator

2025 November 28 . 10:00 AM

1 min read

This is the picture of a museum plaque on which there is something written and also we can see some... — This is the picture of a museum plaque on which there is something written and also we can see some sculptures on it.

A 1970s writing set reveals the lost art of handwritten letters

A red-and-white writing set from the 1970s remains one of the most beloved items at the sam – Stadtmuseum am Markt. Though not currently on display, it highlights the museum’s varied collections. The piece offers a glimpse into a time when writing was a hands-on, deliberate process.

The set includes a fountain pen, a ballpoint pen, a letter opener, and a wax seal. Each item reflects the care people once took in composing letters by hand. Before digital tools took over, writing required patience and precision.

The museum encourages visitors to explore Bremen’s history through everyday objects. Every third Sunday, it hosts discovery tours for those eager to learn more. While the writing set stays in storage, other exhibits showcase the city’s rich past in similar ways.

Staff at the sam – Stadtmuseum am Markt often point to the set as an example of how small items can tell big stories. It serves as a reminder of how communication has changed over the decades.

The writing set may not be on view, but its legacy endures as part of the museum’s broader mission. By focusing on objects like these, the sam – Stadtmuseum am Markt connects visitors to the past in tangible ways. The tours and exhibits continue to draw those curious about Bremen’s everyday history.