Most people know Fred C. Lindstrom (1905–1981) as the brilliant third baseman who entered the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1976. Far fewer realize that after his playing days, he went on to serve more than a decade as a respected U.S. Postmaster.

From 1961 to 1972, Lindstrom was the Postmaster of Evanston, Illinois, bringing the same discipline, teamwork, and steady leadership to the postal service that once made him a star on the diamond.

From the Polo Grounds to Public Service

Lindstrom debuted with the New York Giants at age 18, becoming one of the youngest everyday players in Major League history. His career highlights include:

• Key role in the 1924 and 1933 World Series
• Over 1,700 career hits
• A reputation as one of the finest contact hitters of his era
• Election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame (1976)

After retiring from baseball, Lindstrom chose a life of public service, not celebrity. He worked in business, civic organizations, and eventually federal service.

Appointment as Postmaster of Evanston

In 1961, Lindstrom was appointed Postmaster of Evanston, Illinois, a busy suburban hub just north of Chicago. He served until 1972, overseeing:

• Rapid suburban population growth
• Expanding mail volume in the early ZIP Code era
• Modernization of sorting and delivery operations
• Community outreach and public‑facing postal services

Colleagues described him as calm, organized, and unfailingly courteous—a leader who treated postal employees with the same respect he once showed teammates.