The RPO

 

     The SP&S had three RPO routes on the system.  Most people think of the mainline from Portland to Spokane, but the Astoria line and Oregon Trunk each had one as well.  The "Spokane, Pasco & Portland" RPO operated on the mainline, the "Portland & Seaside" RPO operated on the A-line and the "Fallbridge & Culver" RPO operated on the Trunk.. 

     Other postally related items are perfins.   These are stamps that were purchased by the company for use in mailing company business.  The stamp is punched with the initials of the company in a descending diagonal pattern.   Many large companies across the country used this practice to discourage employees from pilfering postage for their personal use.

 

rpo1.jpg (18304 bytes)
This postcard was placed in the mail slot of the RPO on Train 1 at Lamont, Washington on June 22, 1915.

 

rpo2.jpg (19648 bytes)
This cover was posted on Train 4 on the opening day of the Western Star train service.

 

rpo3.jpg (10511 bytes)
This cover was posted on Train 3 on the last day that RPO operated on the SP&S.

Perfins

pf8.jpg (15510 bytes)
Scott #424

 

Scott #807

 

Scott #811

 

Scott #905

pf1a.jpg (11621 bytes) pf9.jpg (11598 bytes) pf2.jpg (12202 bytes) pf3.jpg (12051 bytes)
Scott #1033

 

Scott #1035

 

Scott #1036

 

Scott #1038

 

pf5.jpg (13363 bytes) pf7.jpg (56490 bytes)

pf6.jpg (14861 bytes)

pf4.jpg (14363 bytes)

Scott #1044

 

Scott #1047

Scott #1208

Scott #1213

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Copyright 1999 Ronald G. Peterson, individual copyrights remain with other owners as indicated.
Last edited:  Saturday, January 19, 2002 23:15