MI DPO - Gilead - RARE manuscript town marking on cover - with content - 1853

The Gilead, Michigan post office operated from 1833 until 1906. The settlement itself was largely built through the efforts of Philander Chase, who moved to the area in 1831 with plans to build a college. While the college project did not pan out, the post office remained active to serve local settlers, operating out of local general stores or residential homes. Today, Gilead operates strictly as a quiet, rural township located in southwest Branch County, Michigan, right along the Indiana border. There is no longer a distinct town, post office, or commercial center at the historic site.

Manuscript town marking is unlisted in the US Stampless Covers Catalog.