An agency of the Shanghai Local Post operated in Foochow in the early 1890's.
In August 1894 a Committee of Public Works was formed to set up a Local Postal
Service.
The Post began operating January 1895. Initially the fee being pre‑paid in cash., the letters were marked with a hand stamp inscribed 'PAID' within a rectangle. Adhesive stamps were first used in August 1895, printed by Waterlow & Sons. Sheets of 50, perf. 13 1/2x15.
A single desiqn by J Mencarrini was used for all 9 stamps. 1/2. 1. 2. 5. 6. 10. 15. 20 & 40 cent.
Shades of most values exist. The 6c is known imperf. No other errors or varieties have been recorded.
Dragon Boats depicted on the stamps were used in an annual race to commemorate the Patriarch Ch'u Yuam in antiquity. Probably the oldest boat race in the world.
A year after this issue the 1/2 cent Blue was changed to Yellow, the 1 cent Green changed to Brown.
Log Book July 1989
Foo Chow local postage