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| British | Canadian | French | German | Spanish | Portuguese | Netherlands | U.S.A. | Eastern | the rest | Contributions |
U.S. Telegraph Companies used collectible stationery, including companies that issued no stamps or franks.
I have images of some of these which can be found using the table below. I also plan to add more gradually as I can (help would be welcome on that).
Philip Leber has told me about a book which he has found "invaluable in researching telegraph materials." - The American Stampless Cover Catalog Vol III (1993) which contains a large section entitled
“Stampless Telegraph Cover Catalog”, by Robert Dalton Harris. It includes detailed information about 300+ “pioneer" telegraph covers and forms (1844-1867).
If you live near a good library or know a good bookshop, it could be worth looking out for.
Confederate States of America.
I came across a pdf document on the internet years back showing an exhibition entitled "Telegraphy in the Confederate States of America".
I no longer have information about the source, but I think it may have been George Jay Kramer. Anyway, it contains a lot of images of rare items and has a very educational writeup.
I make it available here to download (about 9MB). If anyone has further information on this, then please get in touch.
Beginning in 1878, All America Cables grew out of International Ocean Telegraph via Central & South American Telegraph Co, absorbing the Mexican Telegraph Co along the way, to virtually cover all of the Americas.
Despite this extensive network, most of the examples I have so far relate to Panama.
This dated 22 January 1919, with John L. Merrill as President. This is from Panama, received at New York.
This is to the American Bank Note Company of New York, the company printing the Panama postage stamps at the time. It is dated 22 January 1919 and appears to have a map on the back.
Courtesy of David T. Zemer (ABNCo Correspondence collection).
This dated 7 January 1921, with form imprint "S. & C. 200M-9-20" suggesting a printing of September 1920.
This is similar to the last, but with a different Logo Map and revised information on the left. Reference to "Central and South American Telegraph Co" has been dropped, though was still on the receipt.
This is also to the American Bank Note Company of New York, received at the Broad Street office, with a map on the back.
Both the extensive list of offices and the map are very informative. It shows the All America Cables lines in red, as well as connecting lines.
Paraguay and Venezuela seem to be ignored, though Venezuela was connected to the French network..
Images courtesy of Federico Brid (Panama).
A telegram from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, USA to Canal Zone, Panama dated 17 March 1941.
A notably cost-reduced item. It is marked "FORMA ACM 1-PA" at top-left. The President is now Frank W. Phelan.
It was delivered in the envelope shown below :
This gives Frank W. Phelan as being the President at that time.
Very similar to the last form except for the Form number is now ACM-1S and moved under the date-stamp box which no longer has a country name.
This was used 21 December 1943 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Telegram - My Ref. ACT-Del-1855-1
Envelope - My Ref. ACT-Env-1855-1
Alta California Telegraph Company, California, 1855, with contents.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Alta California Telegraph Company, California, 1856,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Similar to above, but in red used 1851 in conjunction with Wells Fargo - My Ref. ACT-Env-1851-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Similar to above, but in black used 1857 - My Ref. ACT-Env-1857-1
courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” (Sale 1102 Lot 1155).
Illustration of Zeus hurling thunderbolts with imprint of "WADE.PR" - My Ref. ACT-Env-1857-1
With contents dated 30 July 1859, courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” (Sale 1102 Lot 1156).
Similar to last but more ornate and with Office information - My Ref. ACT-Env-1857-2
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” (Sale 1102 Lot 1157).
Illustration of Zeus hurling thunderbolts with imprint of "WADE.PR" - My Ref. Alta-Env-1857-1
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” (Sale 1102 Lot 1158).
Similar to last, Office: 153 Montgomery St., Corner of Merchant - My Ref. Alta-Env-Mont-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Similar to last but more ornate and with Office information - My Ref. Alta-Env-Mont-2
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” (Sale 1090 Lot 1836).
A.D.T. seems to have had a "Franchise" ststem with semi autonomous branches all over the country, each with its own President etc.
Philadelphia 1885 - top.- My Ref. ADT-171-2-84-1885-1
now says "In direct communication, through the Western Union Telegraph Company's lines, with all parts of this and foreign countries."
(Form 171—50 M—2,84—L) - This is dated 30 November 1885 and now lists the Executive Offices as 208 South Seventh Street, below Walnut.
The President is still listed as W. J. Philips.
Philadelphia 1891.- My Ref. ADT-171-1-91-1891-1
Form 171. 1-91. 300 M. M. - This was sent on 23 September 1891 and lists the Executive Office as 113 South Broad Street, below Chestnut.
At the bottom it's hand-stamped with 1928 Callowhill Street. The rest I find confusing. It lists the General Manager as George J. Jewill and the President as C. Hartman Kuhn.
The Annual Reports for ADT for the years ending 1890 and 1891 both have at the bottom, the name of Thomas T. Eckert as submitting them as President.
The last specifically adding "New York, January 28th. 1892."
Did ADT in New York have a different President to ADT in Philadelphia ?
On that note, what about these, at least two different Telephone companies claiming to own the ADT.
The Commercial Telephone Company of Albany, N.Y. claims to own the ADT in September of 1882, with the General Manager being A. B. Uline.
This one of 1st January 1891 appears to be a bill and is addressed to the:
Hudson River Telephone Company, owners of the ADT.
Another similar one from 470 Broadway, Albany, N.Y. of 1st December 1891.
again to the Hudson River Telephone Company, owners of the ADT.
It makes me wonder if all the A.D.T. offices in a particular city are simply Franchise operations of some 'Main' one.
But was the 'Main' one in New York, or in Philadelphia ?
In 1904 their President was J. B. Sloan, Manager J. B. Sloan, Jr. and Secretary F. B. Sloan.
I'm not sure where this was, but Dunlap Street, Auction Street and Kerr Street are not common names. Uniontown, Pennsylvania perhaps.
These were either hand-delivered by their messengers, or sent by mail if outside the range of the nearest office.
Early ones are more likely to have been sent by mail since they had fewer offices.
| Shortcuts to different sections by State | ||||
| N.Y. State | Pennsylvania | California | Illinois | Colorado |
New York.
Envelope (Form 346) for sending bills in N.Y. City. - My Ref. ADT-Env-346-1889-1
This gives the Executive Office as being at No. 8 Dey Street.
I have seen that address on a bill of 30 November 1884. A similar bill of 31 December 1897 gave the address of No. 6 Dey Street.
The feint cancel appears to be 1889. There is a list of 51 District Offices. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Buffalo.
Form 27. -- My Ref. ADT-Env-27-1881-1
Form 27. - "American District Telegraph Department of the Bell Telephone Company.",
listing offices in Buffalo N.Y. as 340 Washington Street, 223 Main Street, 15 West Chippewa Street and 413 Niagara Street.
This was sent on 2 November 1881. Image courtesy of Fred of fgkii on eBay (click on image for listing).
An advert in the Buffalo Evening News of 1 November 1881 for boys 14 to 16 years of age
told them to apply at the office at the corner of Main and Seneca streets.
ADT Bleecker Street N.Y. Again this looks like simply a letter.
This gives the Executive Office as being 52 S. 5th Avenue, corner with Bleecker Street, N.Y. City
that is about 2 blocks south of Washington Square Park. This kind of stamp (Scott 156 / 182 ?) dates from 1873 until about 1881,
So I'm a bit surprised about the move. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
ADT 195 Broadway N.Y.
Dated 24 April 1903, this gives the Executive Office as being 195 Broadway, New York. At the bottom it has "Room 4 Union Depot."
Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
ADT 6 Dey Street N.Y.
- My Ref. ADT-Env-345-1901-1
Form 345 Dated 2 October 1901, this gives the Executive Office as being 6 Dey Street, New York City. The post mark is for Brooklyn.
Yes, I know it isn't a million miles away, but I'm surprised they didn't use their own envelopes.
Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
- My Ref. ADT-Env-11-1905-1
Form 11. Used 1905, this is generic, giving no specific address.
Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
ADT Brooklyn delivery by 1881 Registered Mail
An associated card was used to provide a receipt acknowledging delivery.- My Ref. ADT-Rec-1881-1
Brooklyn Executive Office, 191 Montague Street to Washingtonville, N.Y. courtesy of Charles Bosak.
ADT Brooklyn Telegrams
These two are similar except for changes to the font, President and Superintendent. H. H. Wheeler is known to have been President in 1881, so it is likely the undated '187' was used in the 1880's.
Offices at 191 Montague Street; 698 Fulton Street; 321 Court Street; and Putnam Avenue, corner of Irving Place.
Images courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Pennsylvania
ADT Philadelphia envelope and contents, 16 October 1878 to Paris, redirected to Florence.- My Ref. ADT-Env-1878-1
This lists 11 Offices and 4 sub-stations, as well as "Court Rooms, generally" and "Principal Hotels &c"
It is stamped diagonally in purple with "N. W. Cor. General Waiting Room / P. R. R. Depot, 32d & Market Sts."
- My Ref. ADT-Del-1878-1
The heading of the enclosure gives the Executive Offices at N.E. Cor. Fifth & Chestnut., together with Offices:
"N.E. Cor. Third & Chestnut-7th & Chestnut-Broad & Chestnut-Twentieth & Locust-Fortieth and Locust-36th and Lancaster Ave -20th and Callowhill-Broad and Callowhill
-8th and Wood-Centennial Grounds Depot, 32nd & Market-Broad & Master (Forrest Mansion)-Supreme Court Room, New Public Buildings."
Backstamps show it reached Paris 28 October and Firenze (Florence) on the 30th.
Images courtesy of Charles Bosak
Here is a similar delivery envelope.
- My Ref. ADT-133-Env-1896-1
It is unfortunately damaged on the left, but the SubStations are moved to a new column due to a lot more District Offices,
and the Executive Office has changed to 1031 Chestnut Street, where it appears to have been sent from.
The Form number is now 133 B—200 M 7-96 which I take to mean that it was printed July 1896 and the earlier one was August 1886.
Images courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Erie,PA
The plain ones were probably the early ones. This from Erie,PA to Baltimore,MD presumably in the 1870's.
The plain back has a January 16 Baltimore, Maryland received mark, though the year was not considered important apparently.
Images courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
California
San Francisco Form 51, week 20, 1889 type: - My Ref. ADT-51-Env-1889-1
Form 51. 20-89-25,000. Showing an early "Roundsmen" and listing 11 offices in San Francisco.
Image courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions (click on image for listing).A similar 1892, or perhaps 1902 printing:
- My Ref. ADT-51-Env-1892-1
... 2-50,000. (92 perhaps) Showing another "Roundsmen" and now with a few more offices and a Main Office in San Francisco.
Image courtesy of Newall on eBay (click on image for listing).
Illinois
A message sent in the 1900´s, probably from Sherman House to the Times Herald Building, Chicago.
These are headed "Chicago Telephone Company", with A.D.T. seemingly operating as a Department. The envelope marked "Form 202 B." has a list of Offices on the left.
Telegram - My Ref. ADT-Del-201B-1
Envelope - My Ref. ADT-Env-202B-1
The contents are marked "Form 201 B." at top-left, with "100M- -28-1900-13887-R" at the top-right. It has a list of A.D.T. services and was to be sent by "Special Messenger".
It was for use in Chicago and had the year pre-filled as "190....", but (by International Convention ?) was not filled in.
Images courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
Colorado
Denver, Colorado card of 1892
This gives the 1892 location of Offices in Denver as being at 1633 Lawrence Street and 319 Sixteenth Street.
A 1912 advertisement gives 319 Sixteenth St., 1423 Stout St., Albany Hotel and says "Fifty Branch Offices throughout the city".
Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Envelope and enclosure for Sioux City, Iowa 1895
Telegram - My Ref. ADT-Del-1895-1
Envelope - My Ref. ADT-Env-1895-1
This gives the location of Offices in Sioux City, Iowa in 1895 as being at 421 Pierce Street (Phone No. 3)
Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
New York dated 1st July 1877. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1877-1
This has "Form 8." in the top-left corner, and is from "3d DIST., BROAD ST.". It has the General Office as 62 Broadway, New York. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Brooklyn dated 1st September 1877. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-Blyn-1877-1
This has no Form Number and is from Brooklyn. It has Executive Offices as 191 Montague Street (Telegraph Building.) - Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Brooklyn dated 31st March 1882. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-Blyn-1882-1
This is similar to the last, but the 'PAID' stamp has gone and a notice added in purple. - Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Baltimore dated 1st August 1876. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-Balt-1876-1
This has "Form 5." in the top-right corner, and has the Main Office as 121 Baltimore Street. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Baltimore dated 1st November 1878. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-Balt-1878-1
Similar to above but left Note now in blue. New font and Main Office now S. W. corner Baltimore and Calvert Streets. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Baltimore dated 31st October 1901. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-7B-Balt-1901-1
This now has "Form 7 B. 3-1901. 2000" in the top-left corner, with the Executive Office as 13 N. Eutaw Street. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
New York dated 1st March 1879. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1879-1
Another with "Form 8." in the top-left corner, and is from "Dist. 41, No. 819 Sixth Ave." It has the Executive Offices as 699 Broadway.
There is now a Messenger Boy image at top-left and an advertising box at top-right. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
New York dated 31st August 1881. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1881-1
Similar to the last, but with colour removed and information added top and bottom. From "Dist. 3, No. 18 Broad St." It has the Executive Offices as 52 South 5th Ave.
There is now a Messenger Boy image at top-left and an advertising box at top-right. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
As above, but cost-reduced. This one 1884. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1884-1
This is dated 30 November 1884 with Executive Office of 8 Dey Street, "Form 8." in the top-left corner, and services in 4 lines under the messenger image. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
- My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1888-1
This is dated 31 October 1888. The Form number has gone and the font is changed. Services in 3 lines under and 'District' is abbreviated to "DIST." Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
- My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1890-1
This is dated 31 July 1890. This is very similar to the last, except the Office has been overprinted by "70 Trinity Place." in purple.
Similar 1890 forms dated 31 May, 1 April, and 30 June, did not have the overprint. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
- My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1897-1
This is dated 31 December 1897 at the top, but used 10 August 1898. The wording has changed at the top, including address. The messenger image has changed and the telegraph poles are gone.
The wording under him has changed and below there is new wording about change of address.
The Executive Office has changed to No. 6. The top-right box has been re-worded and a box is added at bottom-left. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
- My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1900-1
This is dated 31 October 1900. The messenger image has changed and the top-right box has been re-worded again. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
- My Ref. ADT-Rec-8-1910-1
This is a Treasurer's Bill dated March 1910. The messenger image is similar with '(G. O. 23)' under it.
The design is very different, but still 6 Dey Street, New York. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
This one is for Denver, Colorado, 1911. - My Ref. ADT-Bill-41-1911-1
This is a bill (Form 41 at top-left) for the newly formed Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Co.
It lists offices at 1421 Champa Street, 319 Sixteenth Street and the Albany Hotel. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Anyone know the significance of "VOUCHERED" ?
Smaller offices appear to have needed a lot more detail, perhaps they had more time. - My Ref. ADT-Bill-Butte-1887-1
Dated 2nd May 1887 for the Office of Main Street, Over Butte Hardware Co. in Butte City, Montana.
The customer appears to have been the District Telephone Co., 19 entries for $7.00. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Wichita, Kansas, 1888. - My Ref. ADT-Bill-Wichita-1888-1
Dated 2nd April 1888 for the Office at 113 North Main Street, Wichita, Kansas.
For 20 uses of a messenger, totalling $5.95. Courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Generic July 1891. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-grey-1891-1
This is a front and back of a generic Messenger Receipt of 5 July 1891. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Generic December 1891. - My Ref. ADT-Rec-yell-1891-1
This is a front and back of a generic Messenger Receipt of 4 December 1891. Image courtesy of Charles Bosak.
Patrick seems to have been doing good business.
3 of the above are numbered 222. It seems likely to relate to the particular messenger.
"PAY NO CAR FARE OR MONEY TO MESSENGER"
These have form numbers in the top-left corner, but forms with the same number did not stay the same but changed over time.
The ones I have seen start with "No. 16" or "No. 17", with the latter only being seen with J. W. Converse as President.
Out of the 9 forms I have seen, there were 7 different ones. I have not seen a "No. 16—Form 1." or "No. 17—Form 2.", but I have seen three different "No. 16—Form 3." examples.
The earlier ones, with Edwin Reed as President, had "EXPRESS MESSAGE" as the second line.
Later ones with J. W. Converse as President later replaced that with the address of the General Offices at 187 Broadway, NY., or nothing.
Below that is the terms and conditions.
A 'Collect' telegram, Form 3, courtesy of Everett Ramsey. - My Ref. AR-Del-16-3-Reed-1881
As Everett points out, only 'COLLECT' stamps can be found on these forms, the 'TELEGRAM' stamps would be on the
sending forms, and subsequently destroyed in the normal course of events.
It is from Klinefelter Bros. to Providence Tool Co. of 76 Baltimore. Everett Ramsey tells me that there is such an address in Providence, R.I. on the rail line from NY City to Boston.
On the right it says "Please pay no charges on this Message, unless the amount is denoted hereon by the Company's Stamp."
On the left it says "Read the Notice at the Top". Luckily not all examples had the stamps over that notice.
The image below is a "No. 16—Form 2." used 2 November 1881 for a pre-paid telegrams. No stamps were used on them. - My Ref. AR-Del-16-2-Reed-1881
Though the top part is similar, the rest is lined and has more detail. The hand-stamp at the top is different, even though this was only used about 2 months later.
My apologies, I do not know who to credit for this image. If it's you, please get in contact.
The Boston example below is easier to see : - My Ref. AR-Del-16-3-Conv-1883
This has J. W. Converse as President.
Unknown year. This image is courtesy of Siegelauctions.com.
I will try to compare the ones I have seen, just showing the top parts. The first President was Edwin Reed.
This New York Times report of 1883 listed J. W. Converse (James) as President of American Rapid.
I also do not know the owner of the Company,
but Edwin Reed (of Bath, Maine) was a wealthy shipping merchant who appears to have been President of the Company from the beginning.
J. W. Converse was replaced by Anthony W. Dimock as President sometime before April 1884, after Bankers'& Merchants' took control in September 1883.
The General Superintendent is the same on all the ones that I have seen, being I. A. Sherman. The Engineer-in-Chief was Gerritt Smith.
This is the only type I have seen for sending telegrams. Normally the 'TELEGRAM' stamps would be affixed to them unless sending 'COLLECT'.
This example was used to create a Spoof Telegram of 1 April 1883, though the form itself appears to be genuine.
Perhaps surprisingly it doesn't say anything about the basic pricing of the companies telegrams, though it does
have the terms and conditions at the top that say :
These could be prepaid, with no stamp, or not, with 'COLLECT' stamps.
They were lined with spaces for "Check", "Number", "Time", "Dated" and "To".
At least these two styles of header.
Again, these could be prepaid, with no stamp, or not, with 'COLLECT' stamps.
These were not lined with the year sometimes missing.
The first two look like having an EXPRESS header, but the spacing has changed with the new President.
The last two are different again with the last being a #17. On this the Chief Engineers name has been dropped in favour of Fred May as the General Manager.
This envelope, courtesy of Everett Ramsey, is to a customer of the American Rapid from a branch at 78 Walker Street, New York.
Sending forms.
These were paid for in cash, but from 1 June 1862 to 1 August 1864 the forms needed to carry a Tax Stamp.
A telegraph form of the American Telegraph Company used on 13 February 1863 with an imperforate 3c stamp pen cancelled with initials and that date. - My Ref. ATC-Send-1862-1
The American Telegraph merged with Western Union in 1866.
The American Telegraph Company became part of the Western Union Telegraph Company on 12 June 1866.
This lists Cambridge Livingston (died September 1879) as Secretary and (Colonel) Edward Sewell Sanford (1817-1882) as President.
the forms should normally have been destroyed after use. Courtesy of Everett Ramsey,
An earlier form used 13 May 1861 lists J. Kendall, General Superintendent in place of the Secretary on this form.
That and many other interesting forms can be seen in this [PDF] by the American Philatelic Society.
A similar, but different telegraph form of the American Telegraph Company used on 15 May 1863 with a 1c stamp pen cancelled with initials and that date. - My Ref. ATC-Send-1863-1
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” (Sale 1133 Lot 542).
A similar telegram with more words requiring a 3c Tax Stamp. Now you can read all of the writing.
This has a partially perforated stamp used 6 August 1863. Image courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
Delivery forms.
The ATC covered a large area with different Superintendants and offices. These required different form details.
Another 1864 American Telegraph Company form, this for New Brunswick District. - My Ref. ATC-Del-1864-2
Form dated 15 March 1864 from Calais on the Canadian border, to Woodstock, Vermont, courtesy of Todd Parker.
A closeup of the top makes it easier to read the, fairly standard, terms and conditions, which are the same as above.
D. B. Stevens is named as the Superintendent of the New Brunswick District.
The above was in this, fairly plain envelope. - My Ref. ATC-Env-1864-2
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Yet another different 1864 Delivery form, this for North, South, East and West. Used 14 May 1864. - My Ref. ATC-Del-1864-3
"THE" has been added to the Company name.
This for Philadelphia, quoting Cambridge Livingston as Secretary and E. S Sanford as President. Head Office at 145 Broadway N.Y.
This was listed on eBay, together with the Delivery Envelope below, by Buystamps.
33c to pay on this. - My Ref. ATC-Env-1864-3
This has fairly ornate lettering. Compare it to the next, undated one from the same auction lot :
No date, but presumably later. - My Ref. ATC-Env-Phil-1
The contents were not even a form, just the strip of tape :
Now an 1865 Delivery form, again for North, South, East and West. Used 25 March 1865. - My Ref. ATC-Del-1865-1
Not sure where this was received, but still quoting Cambridge Livingston as Secretary and E. S Sanford as President. Head Office at 145 Broadway N.Y.
This was listed on eBay, together with the Delivery Envelope below, by Buystamps.
45c to pay on this. "THE" hasn't made its way onto the envelope. - My Ref. ATC-Env-1865-1
Nothing on the back.
Date unknown. - My Ref. ATC-Env-BM-1
American Telegraph Company, Boston Maine District, another embossed envelope.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1159).
- My Ref. ATC-Env-1861-1
"American Telegraph Company…Washington D.C." cover with 1861, 1c blue.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. ATC-Env-1863-1
American Telegraph Company. Embossed cover with blue eagle and lightening bolt.
Nothing is printed on the back, but the embossing shows clearly and someone has written in pencil "1863 XDC".
Courtesy of Kurt, — petamarty on eBay.
- My Ref. ATC-Env-LFH-1
American Telegraph Company. Illustrated embossed corner card with eagle and lightening bolt,
on local telegram cover, with manuscript Fifty three charge (50¢ telegram + 3¢ revenue).
This tax was from 1 June 1862 until 1 August 1864, so presumably this was used in that period.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
My Ref. ATC-Mil-Del-1865-1
1865 (Jul. 21) American Telegraph Co. (South) under the control and supervision of the U.S. Military Telegraph.
In the weeks after final Confederate collapse, this was the best means of communication within the South.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Envelope used with the above telegram. - My Ref. ATC-Mil-Env-1865-1
Date unknown. - My Ref. ATC-NY-Env-1
On the left side the wording refers to an Act of Congress in the year 1861.
American Telegraph Company, New York, all-over illustrated envelope design in light blue.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1161).
Fornt and Back of another example - My Ref. ATC-NY-Env-1
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps.
Date unknown. - My Ref. ATC-NY-Env-2
American Telegraph Company, New York, all-over illustrated envelope design in light blue.
Similar to the last but a simpler design.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1164).
Date unknown. - My Ref. ATC-NY-Env-3
American Telegraph Company, New York, all-over illustrated envelope design in light red dated 1861.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1160).
- My Ref. ATC-NY-Env-4
American Telegraph Company, New York, a similar all-over illustrated envelope design in red. It looks to be dated 1 August 1862.
Similar to the last but a simpler design.
Courtesy of Everett Ramsey. This was part of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1165.
An envelope of American & House Telegraph Company's Consolodated Printing Lines. - My Ref. AHC-Wash-21/8-1
This gives the Washington Offices as being at the National and Willard's Hotels, with the N.Y. Offices at No. 21 Wall Street and 8 Merchants' Exchange.
- Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
- My Ref. AHL-Env-1
Astor House envelope listing General Offices at "2 1-2 and 21 Wall Street".
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1174.
My Ref. AOT-Env-1
Atlantic and Ohio Telegraph, Philadelphia, cameo style corner card,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. AOT-Env-1X
Atlantic and Ohio Telegraph Company, Philadelphia, as last, but stamped with X.
Said to be circa 1847. Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1170.
- My Ref. AOT-Env-1Z
Atlantic and Ohio Telegraph Company, Philadelphia, as last, but stamped with Z and 2 PAID marks.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 201.
Dated October 26, 1848 - My Ref. AOT-Env-2
Atlantic and Ohio Telegraph Company, Philadelphia, giving address of Merchants Exchange Phila. PAID mark.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1171.
Receiving Form 10 received 28 December 1871 - My Ref. APT-Frm10-1870-1
This lists Thomas T. Eckert as President, with Albert B. Chandler as Secretary and Treasurer.
Upper managemet are listed as D. H. Bates (N.Y.), Chas A Tinker (Chicago) and R. P. Hammond (San Fran.)
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps, together with the envelope below:-
Envelope Form 93 used 1871 - My Ref. APT-Frm10-1870-1
Nothing on the back.
Receiving Form 11 Half-rate telegram of 1880, similar to Form 10, but in red. My Ref. APT-11-Del-1880-1
The form names Albert B. Chandler as President. In 1892 he became President of the Postal Telegraph.
The envelope appears to be the same as Form 93 listed above as - My Ref. APT-Frm10-1870-1
Image courtesy of Fred of fgkii on eBay (click on image for listing).
Atlantic & Pacific Telegraph Company., 1870's ? Telegram envelope with a map showing Offices, My Ref. APT-Env-1870-2
courtesy of Newall on eBay (click on image for listing).
Atlantic and Pacific Telegraph, similar design with local office address. - My Ref. APT-Env-1870-3
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1173.
- My Ref. ALM-Env-Dayton-1
Atlantic Lake & Mississippi Telegraph, for Dayton, Ohio.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 199.
- My Ref. ALM-Env-Cincinnati-1
Atlantic Lake & Mississippi Telegraph, for Cincinnati, Ohio Office at No. 7, Third Street, East of Main.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 200.
| Shortcuts to sub-sections | ||
| Eastern | Western | New York State |
- My Ref. BT-Env-1
Bain's Telegraph, simple envelope "Delivery Free", used in Philadelphia.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1155, Lot 3152.
- My Ref. BTE-Env-1
Bain's Eastern Telegraph, "Office No. 76 State Street." (Boston) and used at Boston, where it was mailed to San Francisco, California.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1175.
- My Ref. BTE-Env-2
Bain's Eastern Telegraph, now 2 office, adding "Portland Office, 58 Exchange Street." Used at Boston, mailed to Newburyport, Mass.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1175.
- My Ref. BTW-Env-1
Bain's Western Telegraph, This lists the same offices as the last Eastern Telegraph, Boston and Portland, where it was again mailed to Newburyport, Mass.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1176.
- My Ref. BTNY-Env-1
Bain's Western Telegraph, This lists an office at 29 Wall Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1225.
A Sending form of 6 October 1887 - My Ref. BO-Send-1887
This has the set of A. Hoen & Co. stamps numbered L8392 (the highest I have seen on the 10c). Image courtesy of Eric Jackson. Click image for listing.
A T. D. Form 3 telegram used 19 January 1883 at the "CX Cotton Exchange." - My Ref. BO-TD3-Del-1883
This lists George P. Frick as the President with R. Stewart as the Superintendent.
A T. D. Form 3 telegram printed 28 October 1884 and used 24 November 1885 ? - My Ref. BO-TD3-Del-1884
This lists D. H. Bates as President and General Manager in New York City and other top people.
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T. D. FORM 3, 5 million printed 28 October 1884. Offices listed in New York City, New Orleans, Chicago, Baltimore and Galveston
This was received at the Deshler Block, Columbus, Ohio. The back shows their lines and connections on a map engraved by the American Bank Note Co., NY.
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Click map for a larger version. Images courtesy of Rolf Lamprecht.
- My Ref. BM-2-Del-1884-1
Bankers & Merchants. telegram of 1880s with enclosure. Image courtesy of Fred of fgkii on eBay (click on image for listing). - My Ref. BM-7-Env-1884-1
Another relating to the Cattle family, this one with 1884 cancels, helpful since it was too much trouble to put the year on the telegrams.
Courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
Envelope dated 1 July 1895.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
Imprint T. T. 6. (11-86—10,000)
"Santa Cruz, Cal., Mar 4, 1887" cds - My Ref. BCT-Env-TT6-1186-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. CS-Env-1854-1
1854 (California State Telegraph) By Telegraph., Office, No 159 Clay St., San Francisco, Cal.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
As last but in red. - My Ref. CS-Env-1854-2
Now not confined to California.
Circa 1854 (California State Telegraph) By Telegraph., Office, No 159 Clay St., San Francisco, Cal.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1179.
- My Ref. CS-Env-red-1
Red embossed cameo corner card,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. CS-Env-blue-1
Blue embossed cameo corner card,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. CS-Env-1860-1
"All parts of the State" with original Sept 1, 1860 enclosure.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Wording changed at the top. - My Ref. CS-Env-1861-1
Cancelled by "Wells, Fargo & Co., San Jose, Dec 18" (the year would have been nice)
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Similar image, but different wording and colour. - My Ref. CS-Env-1864-1
Now not confined to California.
Connecting with lines to all the principal Cities and Towns in the U. States. This is dated 8 July 1864.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1090, Lot 1840.
Same envelope together with enclosure, a Telegram of August 16, 1865. - My Ref. (for envelope) CS-Env-1865-1
Different Logo.
Form No. 1.has the year pre-filled as "1864" and names the President as H. W. Carpenter and the Superintendent as Jas. Gamble.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1090, Lot 1843.
Envelope similar to above, but specific to Sacramento. - My Ref. CS-Env-Sac-1
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1117, Lot 4400.
Envelope in black together with enclosure, a Telegram of August 16, 1865. - My Ref. (for envelope) CS-Env-1865-1
Different Logo.
Atlantic and Pacific Telegraph, similar design envelope but in black.
Form No. 1. now has the year pre-filled as only "186", still naming the President as H. W. Carpenter and the Superintendent as Jas. Gamble.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1090, Lot 1838.
Same envelope together with enclosure, a Telegram of May 16, 1866. - My Ref. (for envelope) CS-Env-1865-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Same type of envelope and form, but now the name of the Superintendent is crossed out.
- My Ref. (for telegram) CS-Del-1866-1
- My Ref. CS-Env-1866-1
Illustrated design on orange-buff cover,
The California State Telegraph envelopes are very scarce sent through the mails.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
For San Francisco - My Ref. CS-Env-1866-2
Advertising office in San Francisco,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Envelope used at Dundee Station "Record" Office, N.Y. - My Ref. CET-Env-Dundee-1
E. Hoogland is indicated as the President at Dundee.
This was listed on eBay by Buystamps.
Envelope said to have enclosure of July 19, 1856. - My Ref. CCT-Env-1856-1
Distinctive Cape Cod Telegraph, address Traveller Buildings, 31 State Street, Boston. Envelope printed in dark blue and used in Boston.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1183.
Envelope used at Catskill. - My Ref. CTE-Env-1
Envelope giving Office address as Opposite Catskill Bank and with "Also Book & Variety Store"
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1196, Lot 580.
- My Ref. CLS-3-Env-No3
Cincinnati & Louisville Steamer Telegraph No. 3, ornate blue embossed cameo corner,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
City Telegraph. - My Ref. City-Env-1
An envelope listing offices at 21 Wall Street; Metropolitan Hotel; NY Hotel, 721 Broadway; Madison Square P.O., Broadway and 22nd Street; and Brooklyn, corner of Montague & Court.
Used with Bentley's Madison Square double circle. Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1101, Lot 635.
- My Ref. CLM-Env-1
Company envelope, No. 7, Paid.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
To Hamburg, Germany via London, dated 31 May 1927 - front and back. - My Ref. CCC-Env-London-1927
Yes, I know they don't look very American, but this company was created by John Mackay and James Gordon Bennett (owner of the New York Herald),
so this seems to be the place to put it. The pair created the company in 1883 to compete with the Western Union Atlantic service.
They had 6 Atlantic cables laid from 1884 to 1923. Eventually it became part of the American Cable and Radio Corporation.
1880. - Form 2. My Ref. CTC-Form.1-1880
Image courtesy of La Barre Galleries.
1889. - My Ref. Cupid-Env-1
Used in Ballinger, Texas, Feb 14, 1889.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Electric Marine Telegraphs - My Ref. EMar-Env-1
The envelope is said to have original contents dated 7 May 1859 imprinted with
"Electric Marine Telegraphs, Comprising the following lines: Cape Ann, Cape Cod, Cape Cod Marine, Commercial and Palmer's, Hull, Cohasset and Scituate".
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1186.
See also the Vermont & Boston Telegraph.
- My Ref. (for telegram) ECT-Del-VB-1
Electro-Chemical Telegraph, Vermont and Boston Line. 1856 telegram from New York to Boston.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. EMT-Del-Balt-1
United States Electromagnetic Telegraph, Baltimore, circa 1845, one of 3 recorded examples. Said to be the earliest Telegraph cover recorded.
lot 1153 of the Wilson Born Collection.
Erie Railway Depot 1863. - My Ref. ERT-Env-1
"Smithboro', N.Y. Sep 21" cds, to Palmyra, N.Y.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Another example, courtesy of Todd Parker.
An early Erie & Michigan Telegram. - My Ref. EAM-Chicago-SB-1848
- Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
An associated envelope, also with the name B. B. Keicheral. - My Ref. EAM-Env-Chicago-1848
This also has "Sherman House" (Hotel ?) - Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Erie & Michigan Telegraph Envelope for Detroit Office "over Farmers & Mechanics Bank". - My Ref. EAM-Env-Detroit-FMB-1
An envelope for use by the Detroit Office over Farmers & Mechanics Bank.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 202.
Erie & Michigan Telegraph Envelope, as last. - My Ref. EAM-Env-Detroit-FMB-1
Another envelope for use by the Detroit Office, but this was then mailed to Elmira, NY via Buffalo by steam boat.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1133, Lot 616.
Erie & Michigan Telegraph Envelope for Milwaukee Office, Dickermans Block. - My Ref. EAM-Env-Milwaukee-DB-1
An envelope for use by the Milwaukee Office on Dickermans Block, East Water Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 203.
Opposition Line
Used 10 December 1868, giving a list of offices in Washington and 26 other towns/cities - My Ref. FTC-Env-1868-1
President J.B.Stearns, Treasurer E.B.Welch, Superintendent J.G.Smith.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Used 18 July 1891 in Georgetown, with charges paid - My Ref. GCP-Env-1891-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
As last, used in 1891 with $7 to collect
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. GHT-Env-1869-1
Gilroy and Havilah Telegraph Line, U.S. Mail Stage Via Firebaugh's…and Havilah, with 1869, 3¢ ultramarine
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Envelope marked "161" - My Ref. GRIR-Env-Frm-161-RRB-188
Telegram marked "19", year pre-filled with "188 ." - My Ref. GRIR-Frm-19-RRB-188
President W. O. Hughart.
Form 161, later type with "Form" and "R.R.B." added - My Ref. GRIR-Env-Frm-161-RRB-2
"R. R. B." at top-right. Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
- My Ref. GAT-Env-1892-1
Great Albany Telegram, all-over "Marvels of the Universe" ad cover, 12 June 1892 backstamp,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Hannibal 'Telegraphery' Envelope - My Ref. HTy-Env-1
An envelope with a simple cachet and no office address. Used in Hannibal, Mo.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 204.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for NY of early 1850. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1849-1
An envelope for use in New York with the year pre-printed 1849 and over-written for 1850. It gives their office as :
Gowan's Building, S.E. Corner of Third and Dock Streets (up stairs.)
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1189.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for NY of 1850. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1850-1
An envelope for use in New York listing stations in Philadelphia. There was a 5c charge for delivery to Stamford, Conn.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1090, Lot 1844.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Rochester of 1850. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1850-2
An envelope for use in Rochester based at No.11 Arcade Hall. There was no charge for delivery.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1197.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Rochester of 1850. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1850-3
An envelope for use in Rochester based at No.11 Arcade Hall. This is very similar to the last but "and write plain" added.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1196, Lot 581.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for NY of 1852. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1852-1
A new-design envelope for use in New York, Free delivery south of Canal Street, but this had a 5c charge for delivery.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1192.
- My Ref. HPT-Env-1852-2
House's Printing Telegraph. Illustrated design showing Telegraph Machine & Telegraph Lines on 6 August 1852 cover,
This used at Rochester from their Office at 11 Arcade (16 East Main street).
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Utica of 1852. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1852-3
An illustrated design showing Telegraph Machine & Telegraph Lines. Gives address of Utica Office at 27 Genesee Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1230, Lot 1351.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Albion of 1852. - My Ref. HPT-Env-1852-4
As above, Gives location of the Albion Office.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Louisville. - My Ref. HPT-Env-Louis
An old design (?) envelope. Printed in English, French or German.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1195.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Philadelphia. - My Ref. HPT-Env-Phil-1
"All parts of the United States and British Provinces. "
An elaborate design envelope giving Philadelphia address as N. E. corner of Third and Chestnut Streets.
Also Office addresses for NY; Paterson, NJ; Trenton, NJ; Baltimore, MD; Washington, DC and Wilmington, Del.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Philadelphia. - My Ref. HPT-Env-Phil-2
"All parts of the United States and Canada."
An elaborate design envelope giving Philadelphia address as N. E. corner of 3rd and Chestnut Streets.
Also Office addresses for NY; Paterson, NJ; Trenton, NJ; Baltimore, MD; Washington, DC and a changed Wilmington, Del.(3d to 2d)
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1193.
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Washington of 1852. - My Ref. HPT-Env-Wash
"All parts of the United States and British Provinces. "
Very similar to above, but for Washington. It gives different addresses for some of the offices listed above.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
House's Printing Tel. Envelope for Boston. - My Ref. HPT-Env-Boston-1
An early design envelope giving Boston address as 31 State Street, Traveller Buildings.
"To all parts of the United States, Canadas, and British Provinces."
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1194.
Illinois & Mississippi for Quincy, Il. - My Ref. IMT-Env-Quincy-1
A simple cachet for Quincy, Illinois." Said to be 27 March 1849.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 213.
Illinois & Mississippi for Quincy, Il. - My Ref. IMT-Env-Quincy-2
A simple cachet for Quincy, Illinois." Said to be 26 August 1849.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 205.
Illinois & Mississippi for Quincy, Il. - My Ref. IMT-Del-Quincy-1
Apparently a telegram with the simple cachet for Quincy, Illinois." dated 30 January 1850.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1198.
Caton Lines
Paducah, Ky. cds and "Due 3" handstamp - My Ref. IMT-Env-Caton-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
An apparently later envelope used in St. Louis.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
A telegram from Berlin received aboard the Steamship George Washington on 21 January 1924.
The Company address is given as 42 Broadway, New York, N.Y.
(Not to be confused with the earlier British company of the same name that in 1854 merged with the (British) Electric Telegraph Company to become the Electric and International Telegraph Company.)
International Telegraph, form No. 2 - 1867. - My Ref. ITC-No2-1867
Dated 27 February 1867, with a pre-printed 186.
The President E. K. Harding, and Clerk Charles B. Merrill. Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
This was sent in the envelope with ornate lettering below :
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
International Telegraph, form No. 2 - 1868. - My Ref. ITC-No2-1868
Dated 27 February 1867, with a pre-printed 186.
Now with President E. K. Harding, and Treasurer W. E. Gould. Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
This was sent in the envelope with plain lettering below :
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
International Ocean Telegraph, Blank No. 1 - 1879. - My Ref. IOT-Blk1-187
President William Orton and Vice President Norvin Green.
Dated 2/6 1879, with the pre-printed 187.
The President and Vice President reflect their connection to the Western Union.
International Ocean Telegraph, Night Rate Telegram - 1891. - My Ref. IOT-Del-444-188
Dated 4/17/1891, with the pre-printed 188 being over-written. Courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
President Norvin Green and General Manager Thomas T. Eckert.
The President and General managers again reflect the connection to the Western Union.
An 1870's Telegram listing J. H. Stedwell as President in Flushing, A. J. Provost as Treasurer in Greenpoint, - My Ref. LIT-Del-1870-1
and Horace W. Love as Secretary and Superintendant in Flushing.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
This was delivered in the envelope shown below - My Ref. LIT-Env-1870-1
- My Ref. LAT-Env-blue-1
Dark blue embossed cameo corner card, used in Dublin Va. Jul 13. ex-Kohn.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Telegram of 24 August 1848 - My Ref. MTC-Prov-1848-1
This gives Prices and Regulations.
Received at the Passenger Depot of the Worcester Railroad, Providence, Rhode Island.
This was listed on eBay, together with the Delivery Envelope below, by Buystamps.
Providence R.I. 1848. - My Ref. MTC-Prov-Env-1848-1
Passenger Depot of the Worcester Railroad.
Telegram of 26 January 1849 - My Ref. MTC-Wash-1849-1
This gives address for four offices :
Washington - corner of Louisiana Avenue and Sixth Street.
Baltimore - No. 2 Merchants Exchange, South Gay Street.
Philadelphia - Quincy Granite Building, No. 101 Chestnut Street.
New York - No. 5 Honover Street, Corner of Beaver Street.
"use no figures, except dates ...". The early Morse code did not contain digits which had to be written out. Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
This was in the envelope shown below:
Washington City 1849. - My Ref. MTC-Env-1849-1
This has the wording "S. F. B. Morse, an American Citizen" and gives the Office in Washington as being Congress Hall, Pennsylvania Avenue, opposite National Hotel. Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Telegram of 14 October 1855 - My Ref. MTC-Phil-1855-1
This gives address for four offices :
New York - No. 5 Honover Street, and Irving House, Broadway..
Wilmington - Glazier's Building, Corner of Third and Market Streets.
Baltimore - Sun Iron Building, Corner of Baltimore and South Streets.
Washington - National Hotel, Pennsylvania Avenue, Corner of Sixth Street.
The addresses have all changed. Philadelphia has been replaced on the list by Wilmington, but the envelope (below) shows its large new address.
This was listed on eBay by buystamps, together with its envelope shown below:
Washington City 1849. - My Ref. MTC-Phil-Env-1855-1
This has the wording "Morse Line " and gives the Office in Philadelphia as being No. 98 Chestnut Street. Nothing on the back.
The bottom gives a list of "Way Stations.—" Wilmington, Trenton, New Hope, Havre de Grace, Port Deposit, Princeton, New Brunswick, Newark and Jersey City.
It goes on to list connections to other lines and finally gives the Printer as Brown Press, Ledger Building, Philadelphia.
Hand written at Baltimore, possibly 1846. - My Ref. MT-1846-Env-1
Courtesy of Todd Parker.
Magnetic Telegraph. - My Ref. MT-Harris-Env-1
An early design envelope used at Harrisburg. Said to be circa 1848-50.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 206.
Magnetic Telegraph. - My Ref. MT-Env-Phila-1
A later design envelope in black.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1203.
This looks like the same as last.
Magnetic Telegraph Office/Phila. Oval handstamp as above, matching "2" rate handstamp,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Magnetic Telegraph, as last but in red. - My Ref. MTO-Env-Phila-1R
Someone has pencilled at the bottom "FEB, 7, 1846"
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1200.
A envelope dated 26 March 1853 - My Ref. MTC-Env-1853-1
Way Stations listed at Wilmington, Trenton, Havre de Grace, Port Deposit, New Hope, Princeton, New Brunswick, Newark and Jersey City.
"This Line connects with the Southern Line to Charleston, Mobile and New Orleans, The Western, Pottsville, Easton, and other Morse Lines."
At the bottom is a printers imprint of "STEAM PRESS, SUN BUILDING, BALT."
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
Baltimore. - My Ref. MTC-Env-Balt-1
"Between New-York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington", with a list of 7 Way Stations at the bottom.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. MTC-Env-Phila-2
Magnetic Telegraph Office/Phila. 98 Chestnut Str. Later envelope of uncertain date. Image courtesy of Fred of fgkii on eBay (click on image for listing).
According to Joseph S. Rich (NY 1900), the original offices were at the corner of Louisiana Avenue and Six Street Washington, with another at Congress Hall, Pennsylvania Avenue, opposite National Hotel.
This gives a list of 9 'Way Stations' at Wilmington, Trenton, New Hope, Havre de Grace, Port Deposit, Princeton, New Brunswick, Newark and Jersey City.
It goes on to say "This line connects with the Southern line to Charleston, Mobile and New Orleans, the Western, Pottsville, Easton, and other Morse Lines."
- My Ref. Maine-Env-1
34 Main Street. Photo courtesy of Todd Parker.
Maine Telegraph - Boston. - My Ref. Maine-Env-Boston-1
Embossed envelope, having the address now athe Traveller Buildings, number 31 State Street (The same as Cape Cod Telegraphs).
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1204.
A Radiogram received on the Steamship Excalibur 12 June 1934, from Cleveland, Ohio. Coded DCC-4A on the right and plain on reverse. Size 214 x 177 mm.
I was not sure where to put this, but it comes under the Mackay "International System" as does the items above. I will also put it under U.S. stationery.
It was clearly a rival of the Marconi Radio Telegraphs.
This was delivered in the following envelope. Size 165 x 92 mm.
The front has the name, cabin and information about replying.
The back has the code "DCD 4M" at top-left.
Images courtesy of Edward Coombes.
- My Ref. Marc-Env-26
Form 26. courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
A Marconigram. Nothing to indicate the date, but Radio Corporation of America was called that from 1919 to 1969. I think this was probably about 1922.
The back gives the terms and conditions, as well as confirming Edward J. Nally as the President, which he was from 1919 to 1923.
Images courtesy of Jerry Proc at Memorabilia.html.
A Marconigram received at Cairo on 3 April 1929.
Image courtesy of David Linton.
| Shortcuts to sub-sections | |||
| Boston | Providence | New York State | Troy |
Boston - My Ref. ML-Bos-Env-1
Merchants Line / Bains Telegraph, Office 76 State street, Boston cover to Albany. "Get answer".
Nothing is printed on the back, and there is no seal, though the company is known to have used them on occasion.
Courtesy of Kurt, — petamarty on eBay.
Merchants Line - Bain's Telegraph. Boston - My Ref. ML-Bos-Env-2
Envelope with cachet in red for Boston Office at 76 State Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1224.
Boston - My Ref. ML-Bos-Env-3
Same office as above. Stamped with red Boston "5cts" mark,
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Providence - My Ref. ML-Prov-Env-1
The printing on the envelope has no reference to Providence. This is marked at the top with Feb 23 / 50
Merchants Line used a number of different telegram seals for their different offices. I list them separately under Seals.
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Providence - My Ref. ML-Prov-Env-1
This appears to be marked on the left with Nov 21 / 50
Merchants Line used a number of different telegram seals for their different offices. I list them separately under Seals.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Similar to a red Boston envelope above, but in blue - My Ref. ML-NY-Env-1
Merchants Line / Bains Telegraph, Office 29 Wall street cover to Broad Street.
Nothing is printed on the back, and there is no seal, though the company is known to have used them on occasion.
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Merchants Line - Bain's Telegraph. New York - My Ref. ML-NY-Env-2
Envelope with cachet in green for New York Office at 29 Wall Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1219.
Troy - My Ref. ML-Troy-Env-1
Troy office at 6 State Street. Stamped with blue Troy N.Y. "3cts" mark and "PAID".
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. MilT-Env-1864
United States Military Telegraph, imprint on cover to Canton, Ohio, franked with 1861, 3¢ rose tied by blue Louisville, Ky., May 16, '64 cds and target duplex.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Military Telegraph Envelope for Detroit. - My Ref. MilT-Env-Gulf-1
An envelope marked "Department of the Gulf".
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1247.
| Shortcuts to sub-sections | ||||
| Telegraph | American | Telegraph Lines | Morse & Bain | Southern |
Morse Telegraph.
Morse Line. Used 14th June 1852 - My Ref. NH-Del-185-1
Southern, Western & Eastern Telegraph : Office - Dwight's Building - Up Stairs - Chapel street (New Haven)
Listed with envelope below on eBay by Buystamps.
This was delivered in the following envelope dated 1852 : - My Ref. NH-Env-185-1
Morse Telegraph. - My Ref. MoT-Env-1
Simple envelope for New London.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1218.
Used 20 February 1852, giving office in Paris, Kentucky - My Ref. MoT-Env-Paris-1852-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Morse Telegraph. - My Ref. MoT-Env-2
Envelope for Rhode Island Line with address of office at No.36, South Main Street, Mauran's Block, Providence.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1239.
Morse's American Telegraph.
Morse's American Telegraph. - My Ref. MoA-Shaf-Env-1
Embossed envelope in red for Nashville.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1210.
Morse's Amer. Telegraph, New Orleans - My Ref. MoA-NOr-Env-1
77 St. Charles street New Orleans.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
Morse's American Telegraph. - My Ref. MoA-Env-2
Envelope for NY, Albany and Buffalo, used at Buffalo Office at Exchange Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1216.
Morse's American Telegraph. - My Ref. MoA-Env-3
Envelope for New York and WU Line, used at Minneapolis.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1214.
"Consolodation of House and Morse Lines."
New York, Albany and Buffalo Line, giving office at 2½ Wall Street - My Ref. MoT-Env-NYAB-1861-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Morse's American Telegraph: - Envelope My Ref. MoA-Env-4
and Delivery form of Congress Hall Albany My Ref. MoA-Del-1
Envelope (very similar design to California State) and contents, New York to Albany, used 11 April 1855.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1215.
Morse's American Telegraph: - Envelope My Ref. MoA-Env-4a
Envelope as above, but poorer quality and brown, used at Montgomery, Ala.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1263.
Morse Telegraph Lines.
Morse Telegraph Envelope. - My Ref. MoL-Env-Pitts-1
Received at their "Office S. W. corner St. Charles Hotel, Wood Street, Pittsburgh."
Courtesy of Todd Parker.
Morse & Bain Union Telegraph.
Morse Telegraph. - My Ref. MoB-Env-1
Envelope with red cachet for Ontario & St. Lawrence. Used in Oswego, N.Y.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1206.
Morse Telegraph. - My Ref. MoB-Env-2
Envelope with dark blue cachet for Ontario & St. Lawrence with additional embossed of C.S.Eggleston, Books & Stationery, Artists Materials, Paper Hangings etc. of Fulerton, N.Y.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1207.
Morse's Southern Telegraph Line.
Morse's Southern Telegraph. - My Ref. MoS-Env-1
Envelope with list of 22 charges from New Orleans, where used, and address of office at No. 32, St. Charles Street, Corner of Common, Up Stairs.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1262
| Shortcuts to sub-sections | |
| Atlantic & Ohio | Cincinnati, St.Louis, Pittsburg & New Orleans |
By the Atlantic & Ohio Telegraph Co.
National Telegraph. - My Ref. NTAO-Env-1
Envelope used in Hagerstown, Maryland.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1172.
Cincinnati, St.Louis, Pittsburg & New Orleans.
National Telegraph. - My Ref. NTCLPN-Env-1
Envelope with office address of No. 101 Chestnut Street, Second Story, back room. Presumably the one in Philadelphia.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 207.
A similar envelope with different address.
Envelope with office address of No. 311 Chestnut Street, Second Story, back room. Presumably the one in Philadelphia.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
National Telegraph. - My Ref. NTCLPN-Env-2
Envelope with office address of No. 105 South Third Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1211.
New England T & T Form 20 printed October 1986 and used 4 February 1897. - My Ref. NETT-Env-F20-10.96
Used in Lowell, Mass.
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps.
New Orleans & Ohio - Morse Line. - My Ref. NOO-Env-1
Envelope with cachet for Frankfort, Ky. Enclosure dated January 1851
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 208.
New Orleans & Ohio - Morse Line. - My Ref. NOO-Env-2
Envelope with yellow label for Marietta, Ohio.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1208.
New Orleans & Ohio - Morse Line. - My Ref. NOO-Env-3
Envelope with yellow label with a different border, for Marietta, Ohio.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1209.
New Orleans & Ohio - Morse Line. - My Ref. NOO-Env-4
Envelope for the Cincinnati Office at Third Street, South side, between Main and Sycamore.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1213.
New Orleans & Ohio - Morse Line. - My Ref. NOO-Env-5
Used at Cannonsburgh, Pa. "10" mark and "PAID".
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
A simple envelope from the Office at No. 10 Reynolds Arcade Gallery. - My Ref. NYAB-Env-Roch-1
Rochester N.Y. ?
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
New York, Albany & Buffalo Telegraph. - My Ref. NYAB-Env-Buff-1
Envelope with cachet for Office at No.14 Exchange Street, Buffalo.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1223, Lot 8047.
New York, Albany & Buffalo Telegraph. - My Ref. NYAB-Env-Utica-1
Envelope referencing the Utica Office at Dudley's Triangle, Utica.
(A triangle formed by 3 streets). Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
1 October 1846 Telegram - inside - My Ref. NYBM-Form-Spring-1846
This was folded and sealed with wax. Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
A form, pre-dated 1847, used in Hartford on 22 March 1848 for a telegram from New York. - My Ref. NYBM-Form-Hart-1847-1
The envelope gives the Hartford Office address as "Corner of Main & Pearl Streets." - My Ref. NYBM-Env-Hart-1848
The pre-filled year on the form of 1847 has been changed to read 1848.
The back of the envelope has a couple of interesting features, the name "KRAMER" in pencil and the remains of a wax seal matching the front of the form, to which it appears to have been attached sideways at some point !
The back of the form confirms the date of it.
This item was Listed on eBay by Buystamps, and the listing included an image from an unspecified book that relates to the type of envelope and types of handstamps found on them.
That has a bearing on both the previous item and the next item.
New York & Boston Telegraph. - My Ref. NYBM-Env-Hart-2
Envelope with red cachet of New York & Boston for Hartford, Conn, used 19 April 1847 in Hartford.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1217.
Used 31 October 1851 in New York, with charges paid - My Ref. NYBM-Env-NY-1851-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
New York & Erie Railroad Telegraph. - My Ref. NYEB-Env-Erie-1
Envelope listing Office at Erie Railroad Depot, and cancelled at Owego, N.Y.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1238.
NY and New England Union Telegraph. - My Ref. NYNE-Env-NH-1
Envelope with green cachet of New York and New England Union Telegraph Co., with address at 143 Chapel Street, New Haven.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1227.
N.Y. and New Orleans Telegraph embossed envelope used 4 June 1862. - My Ref. NYNO-Env-1862-1
Used in Wallingford, Vermont. Image courtesy of Todd Parker
This was delivered in an envelope bearing a seal of the Magnetic Telegraph Co.
The seal has the Office address of "Cor Louisiana avanue & Six St WASHINGTON", matching the office of the contents. - My Content Ref. NYWT-Frm-1849-1
Contents dated "Buffalo May 23d 1849". - (Seal listed under USA_Seals )
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1202, Lot 1202.
A envelope dated Philadelphia, 11 June, but who cares about the year - My Ref. NYWT-Frm-1
This was in the envelope below :-
This has a red Washington cancel of June 10 and a 5c Paid mark. Nothing on the back.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
North American Telegraph. - My Ref. NAT-Env-Wash-1
Envelope for Office at Odeon Building, corner of Penn. Avenue and 4 and ½ Street, Washington.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1228.
- My Ref. NCT-Env-1
Northern California Telegraph, (compare to California State Tel.).
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
177 Broadway, New York. - My Ref. NTR-Env-blue-1
Dark blue cameo corner card, used with red "New-York 'Paid 3cts.' Dec 12" cds to Detroit Mich.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Ohio River Railroad Telegraph Envelope. - My Ref. ORR-Env-1
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
O'Reilly Telegraph. - My Ref. ORT-Env-1
Envelope with cachet in dark blue for Chicago Office.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1168.
- My Ref. ORT-Env-Herk-1
Bain's Chemical Telegraph, "O'Reill's New York State Line" for the Herkimer, NY office at E. Caswell's store, Opposite the bank.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1196, Lot 578.
- My Ref. ORT-Env-Troy-1
Bain's Chemical Telegraph, similar to last, but red and black for the Troy, NY office at 8 State street, corner of River street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1196, Lot 577.
O'Reilly Telegraph. - My Ref. ORT-Env-Alb-1
Illustrated Envelope for the Albany, N.Y. Office at 31 State Street, Museum Building.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1222.
O'Reilly - Pittsburg, Cincinnati & Louisville Telegraph - My Ref. ORT-Env-PCL-1
Illustrated Envelope for the Steubenville, Ohio Office at Kilgore Hall, Market Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1229.
(not to be confused with the Atlantic and Pacific Telegraph Co.)
Pacific and Atlantic Telegraph envelope. - My Ref. PATC-Env-1
The addresses "45 South Third, 123 Walnut and Corner Ninth and Chestnut" sound like Boston to me. Anyone know?
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Pacific Postal Telegraph. - My Ref. PPTC-Env-1
Envelope marked "Form 10" with 2c stamp and Boulder Creek CDS of 21 March 1889.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (Sale 33, Lot 1351).
A telegram dated 9 April 1902 with an imprint suggesting the Form Number is P.S.143. Terms and Conditions on the back. - My Ref. PSTT-Frm143-1902-1
This was contained in the envelope shown below : - My Ref. PSTT-Env22-1902-1
Images as listed on eBay by BuyStamps.
Pennsylvania Printing Telegraph - My Ref. PPT-Env-Phil-1
Illustrated envelope for their office at N. E. corner of 3rd. & Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1231.
A useful map of the Pennsylvania Railroad dated 9 January 1886.
Listed on eBay by Larrysellcovers and said to be on the back of an envelope containing tickets.
Peoples Telegraph Line - Nashville - My Ref. PTL-Env-Nash-1
Envelope for Nashville. Said to have contents dated 11 April 1850.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 210.
An embossed envelope for Vicksburgh, MS.
This on the O'Reilly Line.
The back has only embossing, including the envelope manufacturers imprint :
Listed on eBay by Buystamps.
Philadelphia and Cape Island Telegraph - My Ref. PCI-Env-1
Envelope with 1c pre-paid and 3c to pay. Office address of 98 Chestnut Street.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1235.
Philadelphia, Reading & Pottsville Telegram - My Ref. PRP-Del-1848-1
Telegram of 29 August 1848 with simple cachet.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1236.
Philadelphia, Reading & Pottsville Telegram of 16 July 1906 in Western Union style. Form 2—No. 1 - My Ref. PRP-Del-1906-1
This lists George F. Baer as President of Reading Terminal, Philadelphia, with C. M. Lewis as Superintendent at Reading, Pa.
This and the envelope were listed on eBay by ekMadonna.
The above was delivered in the following envelope: Form No. 18. No. 2. - My Ref. PRP-Env-18-2-1906
This was sent from the Office at 14 N, 6th St., Reading, Pa.
"Connecting with the Western Union Telegraph Company".
- My Ref. PRP-Env-1
3 main stations and 8 way stations. Photo courtesy of Todd Parker.
Circa 1854 - My Ref. PRP-Env-Calvert-1
Connecting with the Philadelphia & Sunbury, and Susquehanna, North & West Branch
Listing connections. Imprint bottom-right of "Calvert & Meclaw". Photo courtesy of Todd Parker.
- My Ref. PRP-Env-2
Philadelphia, Reading & Pottsville Telegraph Company. telegram of 1860s listing 5 main offices.
Image courtesy of Fred of fgkii on eBay (click on image for listing).
Philadelphia, Reading & Pottsville Telegram of 1 July 1864 with Harrisburg datestamp. - My Ref. PRP-Env-3
Now with a space for charges at bottom-left.
Listed on eBay by Buystamps .
Form No. 18. - My Ref. PRP-Env-18-1
No specific offices mentioned. Photo courtesy of Todd Parker.
Philadelphia & Wilksbarre Telegraph - My Ref. PWT-Env-1
Simple envelope giving address of No. 101 Chestnut Street, Phila, Third Floor.
Said to be circa 1849. Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 211.
Philadelphia & Wilksbarre Telegraph - My Ref. PWT-Env-1
Illustrated envelope giving Philadelphia Office address as No. 101 Chestnut Street, 3d Floor.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1232.
Used at Strawberry Valley, April 27, 1861 - My Ref. PSJ-Env-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
- My Ref. PUT-179-Env-1902-1
Polar Union Telegraph Company Telegram, Form 179 used 1902, front and back, courtesy of Newall on eBay (click on image for listing).
Telegrams.
Sending Form 1. Telegram from 1900 with 1c Documentary Tax Stamp.
Unused with John O. Stevens as Secretary, Albert B. Chandler as President and William H. Baker as Vice President and General Manager for the P.T.C.
together with Albert Beck as Secretary, John W. Mackay as President and George G. Ward as Vice President and General Manager for the C. C. C.
As lised on eBay by PaperHistory
Dated 10 July 190? with John O. Stevens as Secretary and Albert B. Chandler as President and General Manager, with William H. Baker as Vice President and General Manager.
Receiving Form 2. Telegram. Dated 1 September 1896.
With John O. Stevens as Secretary, Clarence H. Mackay as President, William H. Baker as Vice President and General Manager. Courtesy of Todd Parker.
Form 2 used 28 June 1924, a confirmation.
Form 4-647 Night Lettergram, used 2 August 1918.
Clarence H. Mackay as President, Edward Reynolds as Vice President and General Manager. Charles C. Adams and Charles P. Bruch as additional Vice Presidents.
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps
Form 16?/117 Telegram used 8 January 1911.
The form number at top-left probably had a number, perhaps 16, cut off above the 117.
Clarence H. Mackay as President, Edward J. Nally as Vice President and General Manager. Charles C. Adams and Charles P. Bruch as additional Vice Presidents.
Listed on eBay by theBunnyHutch. This was in the Form 40/110 envelope shown below.
Form 16-37137 Telegram used 3 August 1918.
Clarence H. Mackay as President, Edward Reynolds as Vice President and General Manager. Charles C. Adams and Charles P. Bruch as additional Vice Presidents.
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps
Valentine's Day form used 14 February 1933. No Form number apparent.
Image with inch-scale.
Listed on eBay by Collectibles from Maine together with the delivery envelope shown below.
The front has a Valentine's label pasted over the top-left. The back has "Form 40" at top-right.
Valentine's Day form used 14 February 1934. No Form number apparent.
Front of envelope overlaps.
Listed on eBay by RadicalMoments21 together with the delivery envelope, back shown below.
The front has a better Valentine's label, presumably pasted over the middle. The back is damaged where the form number was expected.
Form 16DM used 27 May 1934.
Listed on eBay by 14URsolutions together with the delivery envelope shown below :
Valentine's Day form used 13 February 1936. No Form number apparent.
Front of envelope overlaps.
Listed on eBay by pilotravel together with the delivery envelope shown below.
The front has a better Valentine's label that looks printed over the middle. The back has no sign of a form number, even under the flap.
Birthday Greetings Form 16-69? (at bottom) used 1 March 1941.
Listed on eBay by ZapVintage together with the delivery envelope shown below.
An interesting feature of this is that the Postal Logo is a negative of the usual one.
Form 16 P.W. of 1942.
Forces Sending Telegram form 16 P.W. sent 13 October 1942 from Portland Air Base, Oregon to San Diego.
Envelopes.
Front and back of an envelope (Form 40.) dated 1 March 1897
As offered by Dr Who (click image for eBay listing).
A 14 February 1933 Valentine's delivery envelope, with label pasted over the top-left. The back has "Form 40" at top-right.
Front and back of an envelope (Form 40. / 177.) dated 28 July 1908.
Derry PA to Latrobe PA.
Offered on eBay by Filatco Stamps (click image for eBay listing).
Front and back of an envelope (Form 40. / 110.) dated 27 January 1910.
As sold by azteccollectables.com.
Envelope used in 1918. There are indications of a form number at the top of the back, partially covered by a paper fold.
"Special Rush Service". The top-left of the back has something that could be "40/112".
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps
Form 113/521 Envelope with associated contents dated June 1896. This is similar to Form 40/177 but without "TELEGRAM".
This appears to be a return envelope that was used to deliver a spoof telegram used for book advertising.
Listed on eBay by llayo
The supposed contents are dated 1896, but the "Telegram" heading has numerous missing letters and no company name.
The pencilled address on the back of the envelope could have been for very targetted delivery.
Form 114/768 Envelope used in 1919. This is similar to Form 40/177 but without "TELEGRAM".
Listed on eBay by ElectroAntiques
An undated, unused envelope bearing the same logo as above referencing "The Mackay System".
A space to indicate where the envelope should be returned to if not delivered within 5 days.
RCA Radiogram. Undated. This was a RCA subsidiary and has a similar style to Marconigrams, another part of RCA. - My Ref. RCA-TA-993
"FORM 100-25-TA-992"
At bottom-left is the form number "FORM 100-25-TA-992"
The back has a long list of offices and services.
Main office at 66 Broad Street NY, with David Sarnoff as President. Images courtesy of Michael Hennessey.
Richmond & Danville Rail Road Telegraph - My Ref. RDR-Env-1
together with contents - My Ref. RDR-1864-1
"American" crossed out and manuscript "Southern" written above as the American Telegraph Co. assets were taken over by Southern Telegraph Co.,
Illustrated in Confederate Philatelist (No. 311, p. 176). Ex Kramer.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1357, Lot 266.
Richmond, Charlottesville & Staunton Telegraph - My Ref. RCS-Env-1
Embossed Envelope with name in star, used at Staunton.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1255.
- My Ref. SHW-Env-blue-1
Red cameo oval corner card, used with "Sackets Harbor N.Y. Apr 16" cds to Poughkeepsie N.Y.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
San Francisco District Telegraph. - My Ref. SFDT-Env-1
Illustrated envelope with 10c in stamps dated 17 July 1896. Address of Main Office, Room 5, 206 Kearny St.
"2nd NOTICE" cachet and "3rd NOTICE" cachet. Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (Sale 33, Lot 1352).
San Juan & Santa Cruz Telegraph - My Ref. SJSC-Env-1
Illustrated Envelope similar to Cal State design in red.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1240.
Scioto Valley Telegraph - My Ref. SVT-Env-1
The company had a telegraph line from Columbus to Portsmouth Oh. This envelope with the usual seated Zeus in black.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1241.
1863 Confederate on brown paper. Blue "Columbia, S.C./Oct. 10" cds. ex-Judd (Pictured in Monroe Book, pg. 49). - My Ref. SEC-Env-1863-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Confederate on blue paper. ex-Kramer. - My Ref. SEC-Env-1863-2
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Envelope - My Ref. SKR-Env-1
Image courtesy of Todd Parker.
Confederate telegram used with a 2c red stamp and postmarked "Canton, Miss./Sep 6" cds and datelined "Summit, Sep 5th 1864". - My Ref. SWT-Tgm-1864-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
An enhanced, enlarged and mirrored image shows "JOHN VanHORNE. President, Mobile, Ala."
Another example opened out to show details. This is sealed with a 2c green and is dated 10 October 1864.
It is offered on eBay with a "Confederate Stamp Alliance" certificate (they have since changed their name to "Civil War Philatelic Society") — click an image for listing.
Speed's - My Ref. SEM-Env-Pain-1
Envelope giving the Office address as "over Marshall's Hardware Store, Main st., Painesville, O."
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1243.
Detroit.
Used at Detroit, Mich. "COLLECT" - My Ref. SEM-Env-Det-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Stebbins Line - My Ref. SLM-Env-Steb-1
Envelope marked "By the Stebbins Line" giving no reference to the Telegraph company. Used at Lexington Mo. Jul. 11, 1859.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1242.
Stebbins Line - undated. - My Ref. SLM-Env-Steb-2
An added note at bottom-left.
This item was Listed on eBay by Buystamps, and the listing included an image from an unspecified book
with interesting information relating more to the previous item.
North & West Branches - My Ref. SRT-Env-1
Used in Bloomsburg, Pa.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Troy & Canada Junction Telegraph - My Ref. TCJ-Env-1
Embossed Troy & Canada Junction Telegraph Envelope giving the Office address as "Bank Block, up stairs, Burlington Vt."
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1244.
Form 1. - My Ref. ULT-Send-1-188-1
A telegraph form 1 of the 1880's courtesy of Rolf Lamprecht.
F. W. Jones, Assistant General Manager; Dwight Townsend, Secretary and E. S. Stokes as President.
According to Rich & Rich, John W. Mackay took control of the Postal in 1884, and subsequent to that the Postal absorbed the
Bankers' & Merchants' Telegraph Co. (see American Rapid), and the United Lines Telegraph Co.
Form 7. - My Ref. ULT-Env-1-187-1
A telegraph envelope, Form 7 postmarked 15 September 1887 courtesy of Todd Parker.
U.S. & Mexico. - My Ref. USM-Env-1
The company had a line from Denver to Santa Fe, but the line was sold to WU before reaching Mexico City. This was sent to Denver.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1245.
Vermont & Boston Telegram of 1860's for between Boston, Montreal and Ogdensburgh. - My Ref. VBT-Frm-1860-1
This lists E. S. Sanford as the President and G. W. Gates as Superintendent and Secretary at White River Junction, Vt.
It was listed on eBay by LarrySellCovers,
who included the envelope shown below: - My Ref. VBT-Env-1860-1
A very similar form with the year filled in as 1862. This though has the President listed as G. G. Benedict of Burlington, Vt. - My Ref. (for telegram) VBT-Del-1862-1.
Presumably a local variant.
This with a similar envelope, except perhaps colour and cachet on the back. - My Ref. (for envelope) VBT-Env-1862-1
Vermont & Boston Telegraph Company. 1862 telegram with enclosure. Images courtesy of Fred of fgkii on eBay (click on image for listing).
Vermont & Boston Telegraph. - My Ref. . VBT-Env-1862-1
Another example, a bit clearer and different cachet.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1252.
Vermont & Boston Telegraph. - My Ref. VBT-Env-1852-1
An illustrated envelope with 50c to pay.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1251.
Similar to last, but space on the left for Office address at Cheney & Co's Express. Charges paid - My Ref. VBT-Env-Chen-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Vermont & Boston Telegraph. - My Ref. VBT-Env-1852-2
A similar illustrated envelope marked "NO CHARGE".
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 214.
Vermont & Boston Telegraph. - My Ref. VBT-Env-1852-3
A similar illustrated envelope marked "NO CHARGE" higher up and a different colour.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1249.
- My Ref. (for telegram) VBT-Del-1856-1
- My Ref. (for embossed envelope) VBT-Env-1856-1
Vermont & Boston Telegraph Company. 1856 telegram with embossing. Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Office at No. 4 Market Street.
Vermont & Boston Telegraph. - My Ref. VBT-Env-1856-1
A clearer example of the embossing on the envelope.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1253.
Vermont & Boston Telegraph. Date unknown, but for now - My Ref. VBT-Env-1860-2
A different envelope with "Through N. H. and Vt. to Boston, New York, and all the principal towns and cities in the U. S., and Canada".
Used at White River Junction, Vermont.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1254.
Wade's Telegraph. - My Ref. Wade-Env-Col-1
Wade's Telegraph Office, giving address of Odeon Building, Columbus, Ohio.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1185.
Washington & New Orleans Telegraph. - My Ref. WNO-Env-1
"W. & N.O." / Tel / N.O. Office in red oval dated 15 May 1850.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1171, Lot 215. (Also sale 1102, Lot 1257).
Washington & New Orleans single line "TELEGRAPHIC", horizontal in blue. - My Ref. WNO-Env-SL-blue
Single line "TELEGRAPHIC", horizontal in blue, October 1851.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1258.
W & New Orleans single line "TELEGRAPHIC", diagonal in blue. - My Ref. WNO-Env-SL-blue
Single line "TELEGRAPHIC", diagonal in blue, 30 May 1851.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1259.
W & New Orleans single line "TELEGRAPHIC", diagonal in red. - My Ref. WNO-Env-SL-red
Single line "TELEGRAPHIC", diagonal in red, February 1851. The red may indicate urgency, since the contents related to insurance and 200 packages on a sunken ship./
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1261.
W & New Orleans single line "TELEGRAPHIC", upwards in black. - My Ref. WNO-Env-SL-black
Single line "TELEGRAPHIC", upwards in black, November 1851. /
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1260.
This may be another. 25c Collect at Macon GA. Single line "TELEGRAPHIC", upwards in black.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions (Sale 103, Lot 659).
W & New Orleans - Brownsville. - My Ref. WNO-Env-Brownsville-1
For use at the Telegraph Office, Brownsville. /
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1265.
Columbia, S. C. 1848. - My Ref. WNO-Env-Columbia-1
Very similar to above, but for Washington. It gives different addresses for some of the offices listed above.
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Washington & New Orleans Telegraph. - My Ref. WNO-Env-2
Embossed Envelope giving the Washington address as "by C. F. Hall. Cincinnati", and the New Orleans address as "Under St. Charles Hotel, N.O."
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1264.
Washington & New Orleans - Southern Telegraph. - My Ref. WNO-South-Env-1
This apparently is part of the Washington & New Orleans Telegraph. This is marked New-Orleans.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1256.
The early envelopes did not have Form numbers, but later ones did, for a wile anyway. Here is a list of the ones I have seen that did :
Hand written for NY with 50c charge. Courtesy of Todd Parker.
- My Ref. WU-Env-1857-1
Western Union Telegraph, imprint with small Zeus and Lightening bolt illustration,
on cover to Salisbury Center, N.Y., franked with 1857, 3¢ dull red tied by Huron, Ohio cds
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Western Union Telegraph Consolidation. - My Ref. WU-Env-Con-1
"Consolidation of the HOUSE, MORSE, O'REILLY, WADE, SPEED & CORNELL Lines"
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1266.
Western Union Telegraph Consolidation. - My Ref. WU-Env-Con-2
Consolidation as above with additional "Under the control of the NEW-YORK & MISSISSIPPI VALLEY PRINTING TELEGRAPH Co"
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1182, Lot 173.
Western Union Telegraph - ornate. - My Ref. WU-Env-Orn-1
Post consolidation, ornate - This is from
Western Union Telegraph. - My Ref. WU-Env-1867-1
Simple design with a 1c postage stamp.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1267.
- My Ref. WU-Env-1867-1
As last, 1867 New York, N.Y. To Langon, France. Western Union Telegraph cover sent unpaid with "New York, 9, Mar 67" cds
debit to France (3¢ U.S. inland and 6¢ sea) and "8" decimes due handstamp. scarce transatlantic telegraph cover.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
San Francisco.
Wells Fargo & Co./San Francisco. Blue oval date stamp on 1864, 3¢ pink - My Ref. WU-Env-SF-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Here is a similar one of July 1867 showing the original contents.
- My Ref. (for telegram) WU-Del-Wade-1867-1
- My Ref. (for envelope) WU-Env-1867-1
Image courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
- My Ref. (for telegram) WU-Del-1-Orton-1867-1
- My Ref. (for envelope) WU-Env-1867-2
Western Union Telegraph Co. from the 1860's
This has Orton as President. He became President of WU in 1867 until he died in 1878.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Western Union Telegraph. - My Ref. WU-Del-Orton-1869-1
This contained the Sending Blank No. 2, dated 9 December 1869, shown below,
as listed on eBay by “BuyStamps” (click image for listing)
- My Ref. (for telegram) WU-Del-Orton-1871-1
- My Ref. (for envelope) WU-Env-1871-1
San Francisco envelope and Pacific Division letterhead enclosure datelined "San Leandro, Jun 15th 1871".
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
William Orton.
Used 6 April 1878 in with a (Kansas & Pacific Railroad) K. & P. R.R., Silver Lake double-circle - My Ref. WU-Env-Orton-1
courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
An envelope thought to be early 1880's.
"Pay no Charges to Messenger unless written in Ink in Delivery Book" (see Form 116 below)
An envelope now marked as Form 116 and used in 1888.
"Pay no Charges to Messenger unless written in Ink in Delivery Book" as above, with advertising on the back.
As listed on eBay by BuyStamps.
This Form 116 delivery envelope contained an 1890's Night Message.
This was listed on eBay by philventure98.
Form 116. This is very similar to the last, but now Incorporated and with Cable Service.
Front and back of Form 1529. It is undated, but refers to a cable service,
This is similar to Form 116 above, but with large "PAID"
Opened with a guillotine ? Images courtesy of AsianStamp - (click one for listing).
This shows "FORM 1529-OA" under the flap of an envelope used in 1946.
Images from an eBay listing by OscarsGarbageCan who also shows the form in it.
Front and back of Form 116.used in Dundee Ill. on 16 November 1912.
This has significant changes.
Listed on eBay by Dave Katz - (click image for listing).
Form 112. This has an unused stamp dating from 1903,
Listed on eBay by WhitsFirstdayCovers. (click image for listing).
Form 117. This was used in Canada in 1897, but there appears to be nothing that limits where it could be used.
Image courtesy of vgstamps2015 on eBay (click image for listing).
Form 120. This was used in Canada in 1901, but there appears to be nothing that limits where it could be used.
Anywhere where there was a "District Superintendent's Office".
The bottom is marked "If not called for within ten days, return to this office."
This was sent Registered from St. John, New Brunswick (28 June) to Aspy Bay, Cape Breton (via North Sydney, Nova Scotia), arriving 3 July.
Images courtesy of CanadaPostalHistoryandStamps on eBay (click image for listing).
Another envelope used in Canada, this in 1926, and again nothing that limits where it could be used.
This might also have had "FORM 1529-OA" or something similar, under the flap as the Form 1529-OA envelope above did.
In fact the imprint at the bottom shows it was printed in the U.S.A.
Image courtesy of vgstamps2015 on eBay (click image for listing).
An envelope for Social Messages. This undated and contents unknown. Again a form number under the flap, this with "FORM 742".
The envelopes used for Delivery Form 702. may also be of this type.
Listed on eBay by Find Your Niche.
Western Union Telegraph. - My Ref. WU-Send-Blk2-1869-1
Sending Blank No. 2, dated 9 December 1869. This lists :
President William Orton, Secretary O. H. Palmer and John van Horne as General Superintendent, Louisville, Ky.
A listed on eBay by “BuyStamps” (click image for listing)
An unused example of a Blank No. 2 Telegraph form. - My Ref. WU-Send-Blk2-1860-1
This was clearly cut, rather haphazardly, from a larger sheet. It came with a stub to list details.
Date pre-filled as 186, listing President William Orton, and Secretary O. H. Palmer. No Provincial Superintendents, so was probably intended for use in New York.
A rare item, sold for peanuts on eBay by “AfewGoodStamps”.
Western Union Telegraph. - My Ref. WU-Send-Blk2-1871-1
Sending Blank No. 2, dated 2 August 1871 with attached frank. President William Orton, Secretary O. H. Palmer.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1133, Lot 624.
- My Ref. WU-Send-1572-189-1
A rare Form No. 1572 Sending Form. These should all have been destroyed in the normal course of events. Somehow this survived.
It was sent 31 March 1901, near the end of the Spanish-American War, using a 1901 Frank. In addition, there is a 1c Documentary tax stamp
With a handstamp saying "RECEIVED / MAR 31 1901 / J. J. Sebell." From 1898, these were required for a number of things at the time, amusements, liquor,
tea, and tobacco, as well as for some business transactions like bills of lading, manifests and marine insurance, but as far as I can see, not telegrams,
though there was a 1c per call telephone tax until 1902, so perhaps that also applied to telegrams.
Images courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
I would really like to hear from anyone that can explain this usage, or has any other sending forms.
The early Delivery Formst had a variety of Form numbers, Here is a list of the ones I have seen :
"No. 1.]" A delivery form used 16 August 1866 in NY State. - My Ref. WU-Del-Frm-1-1866-1
Extensive terms and conditions, buy no mention of company officials.
Nothing on the back.
Listed on eBay by BuyStamps.
This was contained in the envelope below : - My Ref. WU-Env-1866-1.
It gives the Office address as the Erie Railway Depot. Nothing on the back.
This was shown above with the associated envelope. I repeat the top part here (larger).
"Blank No. 1." — Dated 12 July 1867 showing J. H. Wade as President and O. H. Palmer as Secretary.
- My Ref. WU-Del-Wade-1867-1
Image courtesy of Everett Ramsey.
Again repeated from above (larger).
"Blank No. 1." — unknown date, showing William Orton as President and O. H. Palmer as Secretary.
Orton became President of WU in 1867 - My Ref. WU-Del-Orton-1867-1
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
The another Blank No. 1 form, this used 22 June 1870. - My Ref. WU-Del-Orton-1870-1
William Orton listed as President of WU in New York, with O. H. Palmer still as Secretary.
Thomas T. Eckert is now listed on the left as General Superintendent in New York.
Listed on eBay by WeSellitallMiamiDadeBroward.
The top part of another Blank No. 1 form, this used in 1874. - My Ref. WU-Del-Orton-1874-1
This now has Thomas T. Eckert as General Superintendent, New York, William Orton as President and George H. Mumford as Secretary.
The 1874 Business Frank card is signed by Mumford as Vice President.
The top part of another Blank No. 1 form, this used in 1876. - My Ref. WU-Del-Orton-1876-1
This now just has William Orton as President, New York and A.N? Brewer as Secretary.
A Form No. 1, this used 19 July 1883. with a form dated 1882. - My Ref. WU-Del-Green-1882-1
This now has Thomas T. Eckert as General Manager and Norvin Green as President.
A Form No. 1, this used 27 March 1891. with a form dated 189_. - My Ref. WU-Del-Green-1891-1
This is very similar to the last, with only text layout changes at the top. Probably printed by a different company.
As listed on eBay by BuyStamps.
A Form No. 1, this used 30 September 1901. with a form dated 190_. - My Ref. WU-Del-Eckert-1901-1
This just has the name Thomas T. Eckert as President and General Manager.
As listed on eBay by EverydayEphemera.
A Form No. 1, this used in April 1906. with a form dated 190_. - My Ref. WU-Del-1-Clowry-1906-1
This just has Robert C. Clowry as President and General Manager.
It is additionally hand-stamped for Fort Plain, N.Y. giving Chas. J. Wood as Manager.
The back has extensive company information.
As listed on eBay by Mayfair Stamps.
Again, just the top section repeated from above larger.
No form number, and just for the Pacific Division. Dated 15 June 1871, showing William Orton as President and O. H. Palmer as Secretary,
G. H. Mumford as General Agent and Jas. Gamely (?) General Secretary.
This used in San Leandro - My Ref. WU-Del-Pac-Orton-1871-1
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
Form No. 168. 195 Broadway, N.Y. - My Ref. WU-Del-168-1906-1
Western Union telegram datelined "Apr 20, 1906"
This is reporting on earthquake damage 2 days after San Francisco earthquake. Paid to repeat message back.
Courtesy of Schuyler Rumsey Philatelic Auctions. (click on image for listing).
World War I.
Front and back of a telegram received 31 March 1918. "Form CA." at top-right.
This was operating in conjunction with the Anglo-American Telegraph Co.
This is an "Expeditionary Force Message", a network that supported those involved. Algeria in particular helped with that, providing Telegrams for EFMs to the USA.
At the bottom you can see a perforated code. The Eastern Telegrams arriving in Britain also had such a code.
This was delivered in the envelope shown below :
Images courtesy of Sephils.com
A form used 24 December 1928 with a small "702" at the top right that could be a Form number.
This was listed on eBay by LotsOfGoodStuff who also shows the envelope used :
Another form with a small "702" at the top right. This used late 1939.
This was listed on eBay by SellitBaltimore who also shows the matching envelope used :
The form number of the envelope was probably under the flap on the back, but an image of the envelope manufacturer was supplied
This matches what is on the Form 742 Envelope.
A form used 26 November 1931 with "1201-S" at the top which might be a Form number ?
This gives Newcomb Carlton as being the President, with J. C. Willever as First Vice President.
A box at top-left gives Class of Services, and on the left there are 6 options for Signs, DL, NM, Nl, LCO, NLT or WLT.
Strips are pasted on, with NL indicated at the top.
"Gift Orders Solve the Perplexing Question of What to Give"
Images from an eBay listing by SecondTimeHome who also shows the envelope used :
A form used 14 November 1946 with "1201" at the top which seems to be the Form number ?
This gives Joseph L. Egan as the President.
A box at top-left gives Class of Services, and at the top-left there are 4 options for Symbols now, DL, NL, LC, and NLT, with Ship Radiograms added at the bottom.
Strips are pasted on, with NL indicated at the top.
"The Company will Appreciate Suggestions from its Patrons concerning its Service"
Images from an eBay listing by OscarsGarbageCan who also shows the envelope used :
This now shows "FORM 1529-OA" under the flap.
A poor image of a form used 7 June 1952 with "1201"? at the top.
This gives W.P. Marshall as the President.
A box at top-left gives Class of Services, and at the top-left there is a further reduced list.
Strips are pasted on. The "Service" is uncertain.
"The Company will Appreciate Suggestions from its Patrons concerning its Service"
Images from an eBay listing by Gosiula11 who also shows the envelope used :
This now shows advertising on the back. Probably not all the same.
A later, though unused and undated form with "1213" at the top which might be a Form number ?
This gives Joseph L. Egan as being the President, making it 1946-1949.
A box at top-left gives 4 options for Domestic Srvices, and on the left there are 4 options for International Services.
The year is pre-filled with 19__
"A new Curtis Service" Paying magazine subscriptions by wire transfer.
This is marked as "Form No. 44." "The top of the form reads :
"This Company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages only on conditions limiting its liability, which have been assented to by the sender of the following message.
Errors can be guarded against only by repeating a message back to the sending station for comparison, and the Company will not hold itself liable for errors or
delays in transmission or delivery of Unrepeated Night Messages, sent at reduced rates, beyond a sum equal to ten times the amount paid for transmission ; nor
in any case when the claim is not presented in writing within thirty days after the message is filed with the Company for transmission.
This is an UNREPEATED NIGHT MESSAGE, and is delivered by request of the sender, under the conditions named above."
This lists Thomas T. Eckert as General Manager and Norvin Green as President.
It has "Form No. 44." at top-left and has the year pre-printed as 189_
This was listed on eBay by philventure98. It also showed the 116 delivery envelope that it was in :
When a telegram could not be delivered due to an "unsuitable" address, these cards could be sent.
It is marked "Form 26-A" and has a 1c stamp with a Western Union perfin.
This was used 7 October 1933
As listed on eBay by Pine Tree Collectables
When a telegram could not be delivered these could be placed on a door knob, or perhaps pushed under a door to inform the intended recipient.
Since these do not appear to have been completed, I am guessing that the messenger had a quantity of these 66-A cards with the Office pre-stamped, to be used as and when needed.
It is a matter of conjecture as to the writing on the back. (S)econd subtracted from (F)irst perhaps, or S could be Sold, but then what would F be ?
Wilson's Conversational Telegraph. - My Ref. Wil-Env-1
Envelope listing offices at - New Haven, No. 7 Brewster's Building.; Seymour, Eagle Factory; Ansonia; Birmingham; and Waterbury, No. 6 Savings Bank Building.
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1212.
Wisconsin State Telegraph. - My Ref. Wis-Env-1
Simple oval Wisconsin State Telegraph cachet
Courtesy of “Siegel Auction Galleries” Sale 1102, Lot 1205.
T.—No. 91. / S B or X B
"Government Telegram / to be given / PRIORITY"
Anyone know anything about these?
It was with some US Postal Official Seals, so I'm assuming it is from the USA, but it may not be.
It is perforated with guage 10 - Any information would be welcome.
Last updated 15th. May 2026
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