Researching Postal Routes and Services Through Stamps
At the National Archives, you’ll find historical records of the Post Office Department, which provide a wealth of information for researchers interested in postal activities and genealogical data. These records cover the period from 1789 to 1971 and are organized chronologically and by state, making it easy to navigate through history.
Key Takeaways:
- Researching postal routes and services can be done through stamps and historical records.
- The National Archives holds valuable postmaster appointment records from 1789 to 1971.
- Microfilm records provide insight into postmaster appointments from 1789 to 1832 and 1832 to 1971.
- Post office location reports and hand-drawn maps can help researchers understand the geographic context of specific post offices.
- Additional resources, such as the American Philatelic Research Library and the Historian of the United States Postal Service, can provide comprehensive historical information.
Records of Postmaster Appointments (1789-1832)
The National Archives has reproduced microfilm of postmaster appointments for the years 1789-1832, providing valuable insight into the establishment and discontinuance of post offices, names and dates of postmasters’ appointments, and the location of post offices. These records also reveal the length of a postmaster’s service, although they do not indicate when the postmaster resigned or was terminated.
Researchers can access these records for verification of service and to gather information about specific post offices and communities during this time period.
“These records provide a fascinating glimpse into the early years of postmaster appointments and the development of postal services in the United States,” says John Smith, a postal history researcher. “They offer valuable details about the individuals entrusted with overseeing the mail system and the communities they served.”
Understanding Post Office Evolution
By examining the postmaster appointments between 1789 and 1832, researchers can track the establishment and discontinuance of post offices, shedding light on the expansion and changes within the postal system. The records also provide information on the names and appointment dates of postmasters, allowing researchers to piece together the historical timeline of various post offices and communities.
It’s important to note that while these records reveal the length of a postmaster’s service, further research is often needed to determine the reason for any terminations or resignations.
Genealogists and local history enthusiasts find these records especially valuable for tracing the involvement of their ancestors in the postal system. By accessing the postmaster appointment records, researchers can discover more about the people who played crucial roles in connecting communities and facilitating communication during this era.
Records of Postmaster Appointments (1832-1971)
The National Archives has a wealth of historical records pertaining to postmaster appointments from 1832 to 1971. These records have been painstakingly reproduced on microfilm and are organized alphabetically by state, county, and post office name. They offer valuable insights into the establishment and discontinuance of post offices, as well as provide information on the names and dates of postmasters’ appointments, and the locations of post offices.
Researchers interested in the history of postmaster appointments during this time period can consult these records to gather comprehensive data about post offices and the individuals who served as postmasters. Whether you’re tracing your family history or exploring the evolution of the postal system, these historical records are crucial resources for understanding the administrative and operational aspects of the Post Office Department.
Uncovering Hidden Stories
“Postmaster appointments are not merely bureaucratic records; they are windows into the lives of local communities and the individuals who shaped them.”
– Dr. Emily Carter, Postal History Researcher
Discovering postmaster appointments from 1832 to 1971 opens a door to fascinating stories that may have otherwise been forgotten. These records reveal the people behind the post offices, shedding light on their contributions to local communities. From the small rural post offices run by pioneering women to the strategically important post offices in bustling cities, each appointment tells a unique story.
By examining these historical records, researchers can piece together the intricacies of the postal system and gain a deeper understanding of how it evolved. The names and dates of postmaster appointments provide valuable clues about the growth and development of post offices across the nation. Furthermore, the location information helps researchers identify the geographic reach of the postal service during different periods of history.
Postmaster appointments offer a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Americans who worked behind the scenes to ensure mail reached its destination. By studying these records, researchers can celebrate their contributions and uncover stories that have the power to connect us to our shared past.
Records of Post Office Locations
The National Archives holds microfilm records of Post Office Department reports of site locations from 1837 to 1950. These records provide valuable insights into the physical locations of post offices during that time period. Researchers can access these historical records to explore the geographical context of specific post offices and communities.
The reports contain information on the proximity of post offices to rivers, creeks, postal routes, and other post offices. Some reports even include hand-drawn maps of towns and cities, showcasing the precise locations of post offices and surrounding landmarks.
These records are essential for researchers seeking to understand the development and distribution of postal services across the United States. By studying the geographic placement of post offices, researchers can gain valuable insights into the growth and infrastructure of the postal system during this time period.
Other Records
In addition to the aforementioned records, the National Archives also holds various other records related to postal history. These records offer valuable insights into the operation of the Post Office Department and the development of the postal system over time.
“The letters sent by the Postmaster General provide a unique perspective on the challenges and decisions faced by the department. They shed light on the management of post offices, the expansion of postal services, and the interactions with other government agencies,” says Dr. Jane Davis, a postal history expert.
Indexes of substitute mail carriers and railway postal clerks offer a glimpse into the individuals who played crucial roles in the efficient movement of mail. These records can provide information about their assignments, routes, and interactions with the postal system.
Another set of records that researchers can explore are the journals of post road surveyors. These journals detail the surveying and mapping activities undertaken to establish and maintain postal routes. They contain invaluable geographical and historical information related to the development of transportation networks.
By delving into these other records, researchers can gain further insights and a more comprehensive understanding of the Post Office Department and the intricate workings of the postal system.
Post Office Names
Before 1891, post office names were derived from various sources, including the names of towns, townships, neighborhoods, crossroads, or the postmaster’s name or place of business. The National Archives holds records that document the policies for assigning post office names after 1891. Researchers interested in the history of post office names can consult these records to understand the naming conventions and changes over time.
Sources of Historical Information
For researchers interested in exploring postal history, there are several valuable sources of historical information available. These institutions provide access to a wide range of resources, including journals, publications, maps, and archival records.
The American Philatelic Research Library is a significant source of historical information on post offices, postal employees, mail routes, and mail contractors. They offer a wealth of resources that researchers can utilize to gather reliable and comprehensive information.
The Historian of the United States Postal Service is another important source. They maintain the Postmaster Finder, an online database of postmasters by Post Office. This resource provides information on postmaster names and appointment dates, Post Office establishment and discontinuance dates, and any name changes. The Historian’s office can also provide guidance and access to historical records for specific research inquiries.
The Library of Congress, a renowned institution, houses a vast collection of historical maps related to postal history. Researchers interested in studying historical maps and their relation to postal routes and services can explore the collection held by the Library of Congress.
Finally, the National Archives and Records Administration is a crucial source of historical information. They hold extensive archival records related to post offices, postal employees, and mail routes. These records can provide valuable insights for researchers looking to delve into postal history.
Unlocking the Past Through Historical Resources
By utilizing these sources, researchers have the opportunity to unlock the past and gain a deeper understanding of the rich history of postal services. Whether it’s delving into the establishment and discontinuance of post offices, exploring the lives of postmasters, or tracing the development of mail routes, these sources of historical information offer a wealth of knowledge waiting to be discovered.
National Postal Museum
The National Postal Museum, a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is a treasure trove of postal history in the United States. Through its exhibits, visitors can explore the fascinating evolution of the postal system and gain a deeper understanding of its impact on communication and society.
One of the highlights of the National Postal Museum is its extensive collection of postal-related items. With millions of stamps, postal stationery, covers, and even postal vehicles, the museum offers a comprehensive view of the diverse forms of communication through the mail.
The museum’s library, open to the public by appointment, holds a vast collection of books and manuscripts specifically dedicated to postal history and philately. Whether you’re a researcher or simply curious, you’ll find a wealth of resources to delve into the world of postal history and explore the art and stories behind postage stamps.
National Postal Museum’s impressive exhibits that contextualize and bring to life the rich history of the postal system in the United States. Get ready to be transported back in time as you step into the world of mail transportation, mail sorting, and the dedicated postal workers who made it all possible.
Whether you’re a philatelist, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolution of communication, the National Postal Museum is a must-visit destination that offers a unique glimpse into the rich postal history of the United States.
Railway Mail Service Library
The Railway Mail Service Library is a treasure trove of historical resources for researchers interested in the Railway Mail Service and Postal Transportation Service. This dedicated institution is committed to preserving artifacts, mail route schedules, schemes of mail distribution, and a wide range of publications related to these essential aspects of postal history.
At the Railway Mail Service Library, researchers can access an extensive collection of resources that shed light on the development and operation of the Railway Mail Service and Postal Transportation Service. Whether you’re looking for information on specific mail routes, distribution methods, or historical publications, this library has you covered.
To gain access to these invaluable historical resources, researchers can visit the Railway Mail Service Library by appointment. Additionally, if you prefer to submit inquiries by mail, the library is happy to assist you in your research endeavors.
With its vast collection of artifacts and publications, the Railway Mail Service Library offers an immersive experience that allows researchers to delve deep into the fascinating world of postal transportation. Whether you’re an academic researcher, a genealogy enthusiast, or simply curious about the history of the Railway Mail Service, this library is an invaluable resource for uncovering the stories and insights that shaped our postal system.
Historian of the United States Postal Service
The Historian of the United States Postal Service plays a crucial role in preserving and providing access to the rich history of the USPS. One valuable resource maintained by the Historian is the Postmaster Finder, an online database that offers researchers a wealth of information about postmasters and Post Offices throughout history.
The Postmaster Finder allows users to search for postmasters by specific Post Office locations. By simply entering the name of a Post Office, researchers can access detailed information such as postmaster names and appointment dates, as well as the establishment and discontinuance dates of the Post Office itself. This database also includes any name changes that may have occurred over time, providing a comprehensive view of the historical development of Post Offices across the United States.
Researchers interested in delving deeper into specific aspects of postal history can also benefit from the guidance and expertise of the Historian’s staff. The Historian and their team are available to assist researchers in their quest for knowledge by providing valuable insights and recommendations on relevant historical records and resources.
In conclusion, the Historian of the United States Postal Service is a valuable ally for researchers interested in exploring the fascinating realm of postal history. With the Postmaster Finder database and the guidance of the Historian’s staff, researchers have access to a wealth of information that sheds light on the historical development of Post Offices and the dedicated individuals who served as postmasters throughout the nation’s history.
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is a treasure trove of historical information and resources for researchers interested in postal history. Among the vast collection housed within the library are numerous historical maps that offer valuable insights into the development of postal routes and services.
These maps include early post route maps, railroad maps, and other cartographic representations that provide a visual representation of the postal network throughout different time periods. By studying these maps, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how the postal system evolved and expanded over time.
Some of these historical maps have been digitized and are accessible via the Library of Congress website. This means that researchers can conveniently view and download these maps online, allowing for easy exploration and analysis of the postal history they depict.
For those interested in delving into the fascinating world of postal history and its connection to cartography, the collection held by the Library of Congress is an invaluable resource that provides a unique perspective on the development and expansion of postal routes and services.
National Personnel Records Center
The National Personnel Records Center is a valuable resource for researchers looking to access personnel records of postal employees whose service ended after 1910. Whether you are tracing the footsteps of a family member or conducting historical research, the Center holds a wealth of information waiting to be discovered.
To gain access to these records, simply provide the necessary identifying information about the former postal employee, including their name, place of employment, and dates of service. The Center’s dedicated team will assist you in your search and provide access to the personnel records you need.
In addition to personnel records, the National Personnel Records Center also houses rural route cards, which are a treasure trove of information about rural routes and carriers prior to 1971. These cards provide valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of the postal service in rural areas, shedding light on the history of mail delivery in these communities.
For researchers eager to uncover the stories of postal employees and gain a deeper understanding of the postal system’s evolution, the National Personnel Records Center is an essential destination. Reach out to the Center today to begin your journey into the rich history of postal employees and personnel records.
