Details
1823 (Oct.) entire to London, variously rated and showing Graaff-Reinet "Crown" h.s., "POSTOFFICE/CAPE OF GOOD HOPE" oval d.s. and "INDIA LETTER/PORTSMOUTH", all on face; small tear at top of face panel. Photo.
Further details
Note: From the handwriting it has been established that this letter was written by Rev. T.L. Hodgson who was, at that time, a Methodist Missionary stationed at Maquassi on the northern bank of the Vaal. This entire is believed to be the earliest recorded item of mail from Transvaal in private hands. See article by L.J. Picton in the S.A. Philatelist (August 1978), a copy of which is enclosed with the lot.