Belfast & Fleetwood Steamer Service (GB)

Prince of Wales undated UDC of Fleetwood. The stamp is Plate 26 put to press in June 1842

In the early part of the 1840’s a steamship service operated between Fleetwood Lancashire and Belfast. Private post boxes were installed on the deck for passengers. All items are very scarce. Known use according to Mackay was 1842-43.

These are extremely rare examples from the passengers posting mail on board the ship while travelling between Fleetwood and Belfast.

It only operated for a short period in 1843-44. There were three other sister ships in operation but only the Prince of Wales is known to have marked the mail on board before handing the mail to the respective post offices in Fleetwood or Belfast to have the MX applied.

One complete cover ia thought to be in existence.

Fleetwood MX and Prince of Wales cachet on large piece Plate 26 AE, sent on the Fleetwood to Belfast journey. Painting of the Prince of Wales steamer.

Belfast MX & Prince of Wales cachet on the Belfast to Fleetwood journey.