The majority of research about Bletchley Park centres on the code breaking efforts during World War II. Work at the Park laid the foundation for today's modern computers. Most certainly, the Park is rich in telecoms history...
Special cover issues from Bletchley Park.
[Press release received July 2006]
Bletchley Park Post Office will be increasing its support for the development of Bletchley Park and the National Codes Centre through first day covers for new stamp issues. The once secret wartime mailroom attached to the famous Victorian mansion is to be developed as a major feature. It is also working with the Park's new management team on a range of new stamp covers linked to special events. These will be designed to appeal to regular collectors as well as encouraging park visitors to take up the hobby. The covers will continue the familiar theme of using "little pieces of art and history" to tell the story of Bletchley Park and the people connected with it.
The "Paint to Pixel" cover for the "National Portrait Gallery" stamp issue on 18th July 2006 takes the development of the computer at Bletchley Park as its theme. A 'mouse' cable links the stamp issue to 4 key people who were influential in Bletchley Park becoming the birthplace of modern computing. The images are a mix of digital photography and pen and ink drawings to represent the newest and oldest art forms. A limited edition of 250 has been released at £12.50 plus £1.50 p&p.
On September 24th a unique event will take place at Bletchley Park to celebrate the badges being presented to Bletchley Park veterans 60 years after World War Two ended. It will also be the first occasion that fully functioning World War Two code breaking equipment will be operating at the Park since the 1940's. The Victoria Cross issue will be cancelled with a facsimile of the badge on a first day cover commemorating the vital work they did to turn the course of WW2 and save many millions of lives. The cover issue will initially be reserved for the 1200 known surviving veterans. It will then go on general release at the £12.50 plus £1.50 p&p. Proceeds go towards the preservation of Bletchley Park as a national heritage site.
Enquiries should be directed to Bletchley Park Post Office, The Mansion, Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes, MK3 6EB. Tel: 01908 631797 or the web site: www.bletchleycovers.com
Bletchley Park Post Office - Selling First Day Covers from the Park.