1932 Original Map Air Mail (1 results)

Condition: Near Fine. First Edition. This is an ORIGINAL MAP of the 1932 United States AIR MAIL ROUTES of the Post Ofice Department. The map shows both operating routes and routes awarded but not yet operating. The service was turned over to independent contractors in 1926, with passenger transportation encouraged by the Post Office Department. Following passage of the Watres Act of 1930, complaints began circulating concerning the way contracts were awarded. Following the FDR election in 1932, Postmaster General James Farley finally halted all contracts in 1934 and the U. S. Army started carrying the airmail with unsatisfactory results. The Air Mail Act of 1934 was passed and an improved contract awarding system was installed. This history can be found at the National Postal Museum website. The map measures 30" x 19" with a 1 3/4" white border. It has been expertly linen-backed for preservation and ease of handling. The 1932 map is seldom seen. BONUS: Included is a stamped cover ( 2/ 4cent Lake Placid Winjter Olympic stamps and 2/ 1/2 cent Washington postage stamps) commerating the First Flight by Air Mail from Montgomery, Alabama on February 15, 1932, in a mylar protective envelope. Map and cover are Near Fine or better.