The internal postal service during the nineteenth century

Abstract

The fascinating datestamps popularly known as the Malta Village Postmarks constitute a very important aspect of Maltese postal history and is so closely linked to the Inland Postal Service that a resume of the story of this public utility is befitting. During the Maltese revolt against the French oppressor on the 2nd September 1798, the leaders of the insurrection had to have some sort of communication. It is a well known fact that Captain Alexander Ball, who was sent by Lord Nelson later that month to help organise Maltese resistance, was a prolific writer and kept in constant touch with the Maltese leaders by runners. [excerpt]