Valentine’s Day Trends in the 1800s – How People Celebrated Love
Sweety Karlak
Valentine’s Day in the 1800s was very traditional, handwritten, and intimate. Technology like telephones or digital messaging did not exist, and people expressed love mainly through letters, handmade gifts, and symbolic gestures. The 1800s laid the foundation for the Valentine’s traditions we know today.
Let’s explore the most popular Valentine’s Day trends of the 1800s.
Handwritten Love Letters
The 1800s were the golden age of handwritten correspondence. Couples and secret admirers wrote heartfelt letters and poems on fine stationery. Wax seals and ribbons were often used to make the letters more personal and romantic.
Handmade Valentine Cards
Valentine cards became increasingly popular in the mid to late 1800s. They were often handcrafted with lace, ribbons, and illustrations of hearts, cupids, or flowers. These cards were treasured keepsakes and exchanged secretly or openly
Flowers and Romantic Symbols
Roses were already a common symbol of love, but other flowers like violets and lilies were also used. Giving flowers was a way to express feelings without words, and symbolic meanings (the “language of flowers”) were important in conveying messages.
Secret Admirers
Anonymous love letters and cards were very common. Sending a “secret Valentine” allowed people to express feelings discreetly, adding mystery and excitement to the celebration.
Handmade Gifts and Tokens
Couples often exchanged small, handmade gifts such as:
Embroidered handkerchiefs
Small paintings or sketches
Knitted items
Poems written by hand
These gifts reflected effort, thoughtfulness, and true affection.
Valentine’s Day and Courtship
In the 1800s, Valentine’s Day was closely tied to courtship and social etiquette. Young people often used it as a socially acceptable way to show romantic interest. Some communities held small gatherings or dances to celebrate.
How Valentine’s Day “Days” Were Celebrated in the 1800s
Unlike later decades, the concept of Valentine Week did not exist. The celebration revolved entirely around February 14 and the days leading up to it, focused on love letters, gifts, and subtle gestures.
Letter Writing Days (Early February)
Couples and admirers spent the first days of February preparing heartfelt letters.
Gift Preparation Days (Before Feb 14)
People crafted small gifts, hand-painted cards, or handmade tokens for their loved ones.
Valentine’s Day – February 14 (Main Celebration)
On this day, people:
Exchanged love letters and cards
Gave flowers and small handmade gifts
Spent time together in walks, tea parties, or social gatherings
Courtship and romantic intentions were openly expressed
Final Thoughts
Valentine’s Day in the 1800s was intimate, thoughtful, and romantic. Love was expressed through effort, creativity, and careful attention to detail rather than money or extravagance. Many traditions from this era — handwritten letters, cards, and symbolic flowers — continue to influence Valentine’s Day celebrations today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Was Valentine’s Day celebrated in the 1800s?
Yes, it was mainly celebrated with letters, handmade cards, and gifts.
2. What were the most common Valentine gifts in the 1800s?
Handwritten love letters, handmade cards, flowers, and small crafted tokens.
3. Did people give flowers in the 1800s?
Yes, roses were most popular, but violets, lilies, and other symbolic flowers were also common.
4. Were Valentine cards popular?
Yes, especially handcrafted cards with lace, ribbons, and illustrations.
5. Did people write anonymous letters?
Yes, secret admirers were very common in the 1800s.
6. Did people celebrate Valentine Week?
No, Valentine Week did not exist; celebrations centered on February 14.
7. How did courtship relate to Valentine’s Day?
It was often a socially acceptable way for young people to express romantic interest.
8. Were chocolates given as gifts in the 1800s?
Chocolates were not a common Valentine gift yet; they became popular in later decades.
9. Were handwritten letters important?
Yes, they were the most meaningful way to express love.
10. Why is the 1800s Valentine’s trend important?
It shows the origin of romantic traditions like letters, handmade cards, and thoughtful gifts that still influence modern Valentine’s Day.
