



In recent years, it is common to think of postal services in terms of "snail mail", as opposed to electronic mail, which allows for immediate response. In fact, the postal services at the turn of the 19th century were surprisingly efficient and delivered letters to their addressees very quickly. Postcard, one of many, preserved in Alexander’s collection, illustrates the quality of service provided by the French Post Office to its customers.

On February 6, 1857, the United States Post Office issued perforated stamps to facilitate their handling at post offices.