What are the sources for the data contained in Postmaster Finder?
Prior to 1971, the primary sources of information are National Archives Microfilm Publication M1131, Record of Appointment of Postmasters, October 1789 – 1832, and M841, Record of Appointment of Postmasters, 1832 – September 30, 1971. The Postal Bulletin, the Official Register of the United States, and the Journals of the Postmaster General, along with various lists, tables, and directories of Post Offices, are sometimes used in conjunction with the Record of Appointment of Postmasters. From 1971 to 1986, information is pulled from record cards of postmaster appointments located in the USPS Historian’s office. Since 1986, information in Postmaster Finder has been updated from PS Forms 2030 and 8020, Report of Installation (Postmaster or Officer-In-Charge), completed by field personnel; postmaster appointment lists compiled by Human Resources; and the Post Office Changes sections in issues of the Postal Bulletin. Further sources of information are discussed in Publication 119, Sources o
