Pitcairn Islands
The "Bliss" Correspondence
The following 18 lots are all addressed to Gerald D Bliss at Christobal, Canal Zone.
Gerald D. Bliss was the Postmaster at Cristobal (1905-1934) and he initiated the makings of a regular postal service with the Pitcairners, through the accommodation of personal contact with ship captains as they were passing through the Panama Canal, during the period 1920-1932.
All but the 1927 and 1932 (Nov.) covers contain their original letters and have recipients' notes pencilled on the front.
The "Bliss" correspondence was the subject of an article in the "American Philatelist" (July-August 1972).
Some items are a little damaged through opening and prospective buyers should seek Condition Reports.
cover 1921 (Jan.) XU5 from Hilda Christian, marked "From Pitcairn Islands per S S Essex" in red ink, "No stamps available" in blue crayon and showing Lyttelton c.d.s. for 31 January, "TO PAY" h.s. (deleted) and, on reverse, Cristobal arrival d.s. for 3 March. Photo.
Details
cover 1921 (Jan.) XU5 from Hilda Christian, marked "From Pitcairn Islands per S S Essex" in red ink, "No stamps available" in blue crayon and showing Lyttelton c.d.s. for 31 January, "TO PAY" h.s. (deleted) and, on reverse, Cristobal arrival d.s. for 3 March. Photo.