(Hampton Roads Routes 2087 & 1380) Norfolk Va. "Steam", two covers, first circa 1830 showing red "Norfk. Va. Nov 12" cds with matching "Steam" handstamp and red manuscript "37½" cent rating to Fortress Monroe, endorsed "Steam Boat", originated up to 400 miles south of Norfolk and put onto Route 2087 for the 12 mile passage across Hampton Roads; second letter datelined "Richmond Sept. 27th 1836" to Norfolk where red "Steam" handstamp and red manuscript "12½" cent rating for the 117 mile route, carried prior to the awarding of the contract, the addressee Capt. James Drummond was Master of the English Brig Caledonia of 299 tons, a Very Fine pair. Estimate  $150 - 200. (Maryland & Virginia Steamboat Company) A number of routes provided passage between Norfolk and Old Point Comfort (Fort Monroe) from as early as 1830. The Baltimore to Norfolk Route 2087 included the Post Office at Old Point Comfort in its schedule of offices for a three-times a week service at an undisclosed rate of pay.(William Edloe) William Edloe operated Route 1380 between Richmond and Norfolk from September 1838 but was active prior to that date. He was paid $3,949 a year for a twice weekly service using four horse post coach to Old Point Comfort and then steamboat to Norfolk. $0 (Image)