Saint-Martin-le-Vinoux Postcard and Old Paper Fair

The meeting point for Dauphinois postcard collectors

For many years, the Club Cartophile Dauphinois has organized its annual fair at the Maison des Moaïs in Saint-Martin-le-Vinoux. This specialized event brings together about fifty exhibitors passionate about old postcards, old papers, and historical documents from all eras. It is the main fair of its kind in the Grenoble urban area and one of the most important in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region for this highly sought-after collecting category.

A journey back in time on paper

Old postcards are true windows to the past. They show the villages of Isère in the early 20th century, the streets of Grenoble before cars and traffic jams, mountain landscapes before the construction of ski resorts, the factories of the Grésivaudan valley during the era of white coal, and many other scenes of everyday life from yesteryear. Alongside postcards, exhibitors also offer beautifully illustrated old commercial invoices, black and white or sepia old photographs, handwritten letters with their stamped envelopes, historical administrative documents, period advertising posters, and old newspapers.

A friendly and specialized fair

The atmosphere of the fair is both studious and friendly. Exhibitors, setting up from 7 am, have tables and display units provided by the Club Cartophile Dauphinois organization. A welcome coffee is offered upon arrival. The most discerning collectors arrive early to sift through the first boxes and secure rarities, while the curious and local history enthusiasts come throughout the day to browse through binders and albums. The on-site refreshment stand and catering allow visitors to spend the day pleasantly between discoveries.

Saint-Martin-le-Vinoux, at the gates of Grenoble

Saint-Martin-le-Vinoux is a commune in the Grenoble urban area located north of Grenoble, at the foot of the Chartreuse massif. The Maison des Moaïs, at 47 avenue du Général Leclerc, is easily accessible by car or public transport. The fair is held every year in February, from 9 am to 6 pm, with free admission for visitors. For more information, contact the Club Cartophile Dauphinois at 06 48 80 10 02.