Philadelphia Despatch Post, Philadelphia Pa., (3c) Black on Grayish, "R & Co." Initials (15L3). Even margins, cancelled by red outline "3" handstamp, matching faint "Phila. Despatch Post" circular timestamp on small folded cover containing a May 9, 1844 letter to Philadelphia street address, interesting content related to being armed and patrolling against "disturbances", stamp with corner crease and small indentation at top right

VERY FINE APPEARING EXAMPLE OF THE PHILADELPHIA DESPATCH POST STRIDING MESSENGER STAMP ON A SMALL COVER -- THE WORLD'S FIRST PICTORIAL STAMP.

This letter coincides with the Philadelphia Nativist riots of May 6-8 (and July), 1844. The writer was clearly referring to them in his letter. The riots were the result of rising anti-Catholic sentiment and the May incident resulted in the destruction of churches and the loss of at least 14 lives. Further rioting followed in July.

Ex Schwartz and Stimmell With 2015 P.F. certificate

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