Covers
Two mail systems - a local service and external communications - were run under the supervision of the Military Authorities.
The local mail service
There was frequent correspondence between the townsfolk and soldiers in order to maintain morale on both parts. The postal rates were 1d. within the town limits and 3d. to outposts and forts. Bookpost was 1d. per ounce, and the newspaper rate was ½d. per paper.
External communications
Since the town was cut off from the outside world and normal means of communications severed, native runners were enlisted with the hazardous task of carrying the mails through enemy lines surrounding the town, at the risk of being shot if caught. Many were, and, for this reason, compensation for this dangerous occupation was high - initially in cattle and finally #25 per run. At first, the messages were official communications, but private mail was carried afterwards. The relief of Kimberley led to a depletion of half the Boer forces around Mafeking, as they were diverted to strengthen the Modder River. Hence, the tight cordon around the town was finally eased. According to the published rates in the "Mafeking Mail", post carried by the Southern Route via Kimberley was 6d. and post carried by the Northern Route via Bulawayo was 1s. Exceptionally, certain war correspondents engaged private runners to carry their messages and in these instances postage was not payable.
The Local Mail Service within Town Units
XU51900 (29 Mar.) XU5 bearing fancy surcharge on Cape 1d. on ½d. (Hope seated), corner fault at top right, cancelled by c.d.s. S.G. 1. Photo
Details
XU51900 (29 Mar.) XU5 bearing fancy surcharge on Cape 1d. on ½d. (Hope seated), corner fault at top right, cancelled by c.d.s. S.G. 1. Photo