Using the Nord department as an example, Postal Stories is your guide to the history of the French Post Office. We are passionate about postmarks and cancellations. Our collection of images and anecdotes will take you back in time to a period when mail was one of the only means of communication.
About
Postal Stories
Numeral cancels
The Small and Large Numerals were used as cancellations in France between 1852 and 1876.
Local postage rate
The introduction of the local postal service in 1830 was a major innovation in France.
Postmarks are much more than a simple indication that your letter has reached its destination. They tell the story of the post office and mail delivery, and of the companies and people who have used them. On this site, we take you into the hidden history of postmarks, a history full of discoveries and surprises.
Fascinating stories behind postmarks
Valenciennes
1914-1918
Using the example of the district of Valenciennes, discover the postal history of the German occupation during World War I.
