1890s us military mail
The 1890s was a fascinating time for the US military and its mail system. Here are some interesting facts and tidbits about US military mail during that era:
- Military Mail Regulations: In 1891, the US War Department issued new regulations for military mail, which included rules for handling and forwarding mail to and from military personnel.
- Postage Rates: The postage rate for military mail was 2 cents per letter, which was the same as regular civilian mail. However, military personnel could send mail without paying postage if they were sending letters to or from their families.
- Mail Carriers: Military mail was carried by a combination of military personnel, civilian contractors, and the US Postal Service. Mail carriers were responsible for transporting mail between military bases, camps, and outposts.
- Railway Mail Service: The Railway Mail Service, established in 1862, played a crucial role in transporting military mail across the country. Railway mail clerks sorted and delivered mail to and from military personnel.
- Censorship: During the Spanish-American War (1898), the US military implemented censorship on military mail to prevent sensitive information from falling into enemy hands. Mail was inspected and censored at military bases and post offices.
- Mail from the Front: During the Spanish-American War, soldiers wrote letters to their loved ones, sharing stories of their experiences and adventures. These letters often included sketches, photographs, and other mementos.
- Mail to the Front: Mail from the US was often delayed or lost due to the challenges of transporting mail across the Atlantic Ocean and through the war zone. Soldiers often received letters and packages weeks or even months after they were sent.
- Military Mailbags: Military mailbags were designed to be durable and secure, with features like reinforced stitching, metal clasps, and waterproof linings. These bags were used to transport mail between military bases and outposts.
- Mailboxes: Military mailboxes were often simple wooden or metal boxes with a slot for depositing mail. They were typically located at military bases, camps, and outposts.
- Historical Significance: The mail system played a vital role in maintaining morale and communication between military personnel and their families during the 1890s. The mail system also helped to facilitate the exchange of information and supplies between military units and headquarters.
Some interesting examples of US military mail from the 1890s include:
- A letter written by a soldier in the 7th US Cavalry Regiment during the Sioux Wars, dated August 1891.
- A postcard sent by a soldier in the 1st US Infantry Regiment during the Spanish-American War, dated July 1898.
- A package sent by a family member to a soldier in the 3rd US Artillery Regiment, containing a photograph, a letter, and a small gift, dated October 1895.
These examples give us a glimpse into the daily lives of military personnel and their families during the 1890s, and the important role that mail played in their lives.