Post route map of the Territory of Alaska

Harry S. New, postmaster general (1923-1929), commissioned the publication of this map of the Territory of Alaska in 1928. The Post Office Department used this map to coordinate and traverse the vast and varied land in challenging weather to deliver the mail to the territory's growing population.

The map’s symbols designate communities with and without post offices. Markings for routes depict the frequency of postal service between points. Notations on some routes also specify the time of year those routes were used. For example, notations and double-dot and dash line on the 160-mile route between Circle and Eagle indicated that the Star Route contractor was obligated to transport the mail twice a month between November 1st and April 30th. Seasonal weather conditions dictated accessibility. Nenna to Livengood was served by two routes depending upon the time of the year: one for “May 24–Sept. 30” that good for the summer thaw, and the other route “Oct. 1–May 23” was workable over the winter freeze. Still other routes outlined report frequency of use more vaguely, such as the “often as possible” notation between Gulkana and Chisana. Railways appear as slashed lines. Transportation modes on most other routes are not graphically indicated, but some notations inform as to when such routes are navigable. Pt. Barrow in northwestern Alaska has been outlined in pencil, and pin holes at the top corners suggest the map had been hung on a wall. The price of sixty cents is printed in the upper right corner.