Author
Frederick John Melville
1882-1940
Frederick John Melville (1882-1940) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by Frederick John Melville
Chats on Postage Stamps
"Chats on Postage Stamps" by Frederick John Melville is a specialized publication on philately, likely written in the late 19th century. This work serves as an insightful guide for both novice and seasoned stamp collectors, exploring the history, significance, and intricacies of postage stamps. The author aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation for stamp collecting by unveiling the stories, cultural importance, and economic implications surrounding these small pieces of paper adorned with various designs and denominations. The opening of the book presents the author's welcoming invitation to readers and collectors alike to indulge in the world of philately. Melville emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context behind postage stamps, contrasting the modern ease of communication with the past when postage was a luxury afforded only by the wealthy. He outlines how the advent of the postage stamp revolutionized communication by enabling the general public to engage in postal services, delving into the development of postal systems, the introduction of the penny post in London, and the significance of the Penny Black stamp. Through an academic yet relatable discourse, Melville aims to transform the reader's perception of stamp collecting from a simple hobby to an enriching pursuit that opens windows to global history and increase one's observational skills.
The Postage Stamp in War
"The Postage Stamp in War" by Frederick John Melville is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the significant role that postage stamps have played in maintaining postal communication during various military conflicts, particularly focusing on British military operations. It delves into the evolution of postal services in the army and how these stamps serve not only as a means of communication but also as a reflection of national pride and morale. The opening of the book introduces the foundational concept that "the Postage Stamp follows the Flag," illustrating how postage facilitated communication between soldiers and their families during wartime. Melville highlights the organization and challenges faced by the Army Postal Service, emphasizing the importance of keeping soldiers connected to their loved ones through letters. This initial section details the historical context of British postal services from the Crimean War onwards, outlining significant campaigns and the innovations in postal communication that allowed for the reliable exchange of letters amidst the chaos of war.
Gambia
"Gambia" by Frederick John Melville is a comprehensive historical account published in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the stamps of the Gambia, a British West African colony, detailing various postal issues and their significance to collectors and historians. It provides insights into the history and development of the Gambia's postal system, from its establishment to the specifics of stamp designs and production. The content of "Gambia" delves into different stamp series issued through the years, starting with the Cameo issue of 1869 and detailing subsequent issues up until the early 1900s. Each chapter examines the evolution of postage stamps in the Gambia, focusing on aspects such as design variations, printing methods, watermarks, and engraving intricacies. The book also highlights the importance of these stamps to philatelic collectors, providing detailed descriptions and checklists for various stamp values and types, ultimately creating a rich tapestry of the Gambia's postal history.