Steve Walske's research and collecting interests include; North American blockade-run mail from 1775 to 1865; French Franco-Prussian War mail (1870-71); and American transcontinental overland mail from 1832 to 1869. This presentation begins with the earliest known pre-contract letter from the Rocky Mountains in 1832 and examines how letter communications played a crucial role in enabling the consolidation of the United States from the Louisiana Purchase to the western frontier.

This presentation was recorded on October 29, 2020 during the 11th Postal History Symposium.

Video Duration: 59 minutes