The purpose of this exhibit is to illustrate both basic activities and innovations in the operation of the Dead Letter Office (DLO) and the Division of Dead Letters (DDL) (the latter with its Dead Letter Branches (DLB) from 1860-1985.

The 1860-1985 period was chosen because important changes in basic DLO/DDL operation as well as the development of many important innovations that improved DLO/DDL function occurred then. From 1794-1859, the General Post Office (CPO)/DLO’s function saw no change (no innovation). This unchanging function shown for two forerunners. Also, little change in function occurred after 1985.