St Christopher (also known as St Kitts)

FIRST STAMPS Britain from 1858-60 (oblit. A12 at Basseterre). FIRST STAMPS ISSUED 1 April 1870. CURRENCY 1870, sterling. Settlement founded in 1624 by Sir Thomas Warner; island shared with [he French as protection against the hostile Caribs. French area ceded to Britain in 1713 by the Treaty of Utrecht. Captured by the French in 1782, it was returned to British control the following year. First postmark was introduced in 1789. During the period 1860-70 various types of 'Paid' hand-stamps were used. St Christopher issued its own stamps until 31 October 1890 when the general issue for the Leeward Islands was released. For issues after 1903 see St Christopher - Nevis and St Christopher - Nevis and Anguilla.