The mystery of the 1940 postcard featured in the February 22 edition of the Delavan Dispatch is beginning to clear, thanks to early translation work from readers and regional history enthusiasts.

The postcard, mailed from the Delavan Post Office on April 27, 1940, and addressed to Mrs. Otto Gries, 10040 Aberdeen St., Chicago, contains a short message written in German. The first decipherable lines translate to: “Everything is going well so far, I hope Roselle is too, and that you are all well. Greetings to Mr. Gries.”

Additional fragments are now legible, including phrases that appear to read: “Could write a letter today. Delavan Armory, Delavan, Illinois. I am here.” The reference to the Delavan Armory remains the most intriguing element, raising new questions about the sender’s purpose in town and their connection to the Gries family in Chicago.

While the handwriting is still challenging in places, these early breakthroughs offer the first real glimpse into the postcard’s intent — a friendly update, a travel note, or perhaps something more.

The Dispatch will continue sharing translation progress and invites readers with German‑language expertise to join the investigation.