Royal mail records

Royal Mail Records!

Royal Mail, the UK's postal service, has been keeping records of mail sent and received since its inception in 1635. These records are a treasure trove of historical information, providing valuable insights into the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Here are some types of Royal Mail records you might find:

  1. Post Office Directories: Published annually, these directories list the names and addresses of post office employees, as well as the locations of post offices and postal routes.
  2. Postmaster General's Records: These records date back to the 17th century and include correspondence, accounts, and other documents related to the administration of the postal service.
  3. Letter Books: These records contain copies of letters sent and received by the Post Office, including official correspondence, complaints, and other documents.
  4. Packet Books: These records document the transportation of packets (small packages) and registered letters, including details of contents, destinations, and delivery dates.
  5. Parcels and Packages Records: These records list the contents, destinations, and delivery dates of parcels and packages sent through the postal service.
  6. Telegraph Records: With the introduction of the telegraph in the 19th century, Royal Mail began keeping records of telegraph messages sent and received.
  7. Post Office Savings Bank Records: The Post Office Savings Bank was established in 1861 to provide a savings facility for the working class. These records include account information, deposits, and withdrawals.
  8. Railway Mail Records: With the introduction of rail transportation, Royal Mail began using trains to transport mail. These records document the movement of mail by rail.
  9. Airmail Records: As air travel became more common, Royal Mail began using aircraft to transport mail. These records document the movement of mail by air.
  10. Digital Records: In recent years, Royal Mail has digitized many of its records, making them available online through various databases and archives.

Where to find Royal Mail Records:

  1. The National Archives (TNA): TNA holds many Royal Mail records, including those mentioned above. You can search their online catalog or visit their reading rooms in Kew, London.
  2. The British Postal Museum & Archive: This museum and archive in London holds a vast collection of Royal Mail records, including letter books, packet books, and other documents.
  3. Local Record Offices: Many local record offices in the UK hold Royal Mail records specific to their region, such as post office directories and parcel records.
  4. Online Databases: Some Royal Mail records are available online through databases like Ancestry.co.uk, Findmypast.co.uk, or MyHeritage.com.

Remember to check the availability and accessibility of these records before visiting or searching online. Happy researching!