Dutch postal transport 1806-1854

Reorganised and rebuild to French model

In 1806 The Netherlands were occupied by France. As a result the postal service was reorganised and rebuild to French model. The organisation of postal transport changed too. Many of the laws introduced by the French Occupational Forces remained in operation after 1813 when The Netherlands regained its independence.

Horses

In The Netherlands about 70 stations were installed to change horses. Often a post office was also established at those stations led by a postmaster. The postmasters were responsible for all materials and gave guidance to staff. They also collected the postal fees and paid the post-boys.

Post offices

The post offices at the stations were opened day and night. Couriers from State were favoured above other travellers when there were not enough places and normal travellers had to wait for their turn. The services rendered were bound to rigid rules and the timetables were very strict: Each stretch had to be covered every hour.

Express letters

For express letters a relay service operated especially for state-affairs, but this service could also be used by private persons.
After the introduction of railways, horses of flesh and blood were not needed anymore and on 30 April 1854 a law came into force with arrangements to conclude this service.

More information

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