Her Majesty's Mails An Historical and Descriptive Account of the British Post-Office

by William Lewins

"Her Majesty's Mails" by William Lewins is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book provides a detailed exploration of the British Post-Office, tracing its origins, development, and systematic evolution up to that period. The author aims to shed light on an institution that has shaped communication in England, highlighting its significance in civil society and its advancements over time. The opening of the book sets the stage for a comprehensive study of postal history, beginning with references to ancient postal systems and leading into the formative years of England's postal services. Lewins discusses the early attempts at establishing a postal service in various civilizations, including the Persian empire and ancient Rome, before detailing England’s gradual development of its own postal system. He notes significant milestones, such as the establishment of regular posts under Edward IV and the eventual creation of a General Post-Office in the seventeenth century, emphasizing key figures and reforms that shaped the institution. The introductory chapters not only cover the mechanical aspects of postal systems but also underscore their societal impact, engaging the reader with the historical trajectory that led to the British Post-Office as a vital entity in modern communication.