U.S. Stamp Notes: Cadillac Post cover similar to U.S. envelope

Over the years, I’ve seen Cadillac Post local covers but was never able to pin down their story. A recent cache found at a dealer table has helped.

According to publicity releases, Cadillac Post was born in 1953 in Daretown, N.J., but my earliest cover was canceled in 1960.

This 1960 cover features what looks like a stamped envelope indicia that is clearly marked “Cadillac Post 10c 1860-1960 Pony Express Centenary.”

Given that the United States Post Office Department had issued a 4¢ stamped envelope for the pony express centennial not unlike the Cadillac Post version, it is a wonder that the Cadillac Post covers were not refused by post office staff.

The USPOD 4¢ stamped envelope (Scott U543) issued July 19, 1960, is brown, and the Cadillac Post version is red.

My guess is that local post office employees were simply not that aware of the 4¢ stamped envelopes, and thus did not know of the close match.

A 1962 Cadillac Post cover I have contains a one-page mailer that gives a little bit of background on the service.

Among other things, it explains the name.

Apparently, when the service began, the mail was carried in a 1952 Cadillac Coupe Deville over a 60-mile route starting and ending at Wildwood, N.J., on Cape May.

The service has issued a variety of labels showing many different subjects.

The last cover I have is dated May 30, 1987, and celebrates the 33rd anniversary of the service. The local stamp affixed to this cover is not one of the illustrated labels usually used. Rather it is a text-only label that reads, “Cadillac Post Via Cape May-Lewes Ferry 10¢ Lewes, Del. 19958” in blue.

After the label was affixed, it was overprinted, “Depose en Mer m/v Cape May-Lewes.”

I’m sure there is a story there, but I don’t know what it is. I also don’t know if the Cadillac Post endured for additional years.

I wonder if a complete collection has ever been formed, or a complete checklist developed.

If so, I’d appreciate the opportunity to get a copy so more information could be shared with Linn’s readers.

If you can help, please contact me, John Hotchner, at Box 1125, Falls Church, VA 22041-0125; or by e-mail at jmhstamp@verizon.net.

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