Overview

Discusses three meanings of the word post: the letters; those who carried them; and the means of distribution. The text shows that there is continuity from Roman times and that the postal service established throughout England after the conquest of 1066 continued until 1635 when it was officially extended to the public, thus starting its amalgamation with the other services. The text describes the development of the separate postal services which met the needs of nobles, the church, merchants, towns and the public.

Full Product Details

9781859284049

Table of Contents

Reviews

'Philip Beale is to be congratulated on this fascinating history of the English posts up to 1635. This will be the standard work on the subject for many years to come and can be thoroughly recommended to all readers.' Journal of the Royal Philatelic Society ...extremely well-researched...a major contribution to a hitherto rather neglected aspect of English socio-economic history. British Philatelic Bulletin, Vol. 36, No. 5 '...a thoroughtly enjoyable journey from Roman to Stuart times. His research is meticulous and not only illustrates how the postal service developed, but en route creates an intriguing social history...The chapter on Tudor roads and postal routes is exceptional...this is a book that keeps one turning the page, keen to get an insight not only into the English post, but also into the lives of the many users of the service.' Antiquaries Journal, vol. 80 '... assured and learned.' English Historical Review

Author Information

Philip Beale is Fellow of the Society of Postal Historians and Fellow of the Royal Philatelic Society of London.

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