Treasure Hunt Uncovers 109-Year-Old Postcard

Dylan Mermis never anticipated where a treasure hunt in Russell, Kansas, would lead. When his friend Bobby heard about a series of buildings set for demolition, they learned the sites were packed with antiques. Bobby arranged to explore and collect items before their destruction.

Mermis was intrigued and joined with his girlfriend. They spent about 19 hours over two days rummaging through the buildings, hoping to find hidden gems among the debris. During the search, Mermis focused on gathering magazines, including well-known titles like Cosmopolitan, dating back to 1887 through 1920. While collecting, he stumbled upon a box containing mostly unsalvageable photos — except for one postcard dating 109 years back.

The postcard depicted Hugh H. Hoff, a soldier writing to his cousin in 1917. Hoff had just completed officer training and opted for a second lieutenant role in active duty despite being offered a higher-paying position. This choice placed him in active service during World War I.

Intrigued by the postcard’s significance, Mermis decided to look for Hoff’s surviving family. Searching Hoff’s name online, he uncovered a genealogy profile. It revealed Hoff hailed from Edmond, Oklahoma, survived World War I, and lived until 1944.

Delving further, Mermis learned of Hoff’s children and eventually identified Hoff’s great-granddaughter on Facebook. Upon contacting her, she responded with surprise. Mermis then sent the postcard to her family.

This chance discovery concluded with Mermis connecting Hoff’s descendants with a piece of their history. He was pleased the postcard found a rightful place, diverting it from demolition. Despite the challenge, Mermis felt preserving and passing on the postcard was essential.

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