When we see the plain mailbox, we instinctively think of the same generic designs—metal boxes on the curb, wall slots, or cluster mailboxes on apartment buildings. What most people do not know is that today’s ubiquitous mailbox designs actually originated from special, custom mailboxes that were designed to meet the needs and tastes of their respective eras. Over the years, these custom pieces gradually evolved into the mailbox designs we now know as typical.
The Origin of the Mailbox
The first mailbox that was known existed in Paris around 1829, the start of public use of a more organized system of mail delivery. Soon after, Warsaw initiated public mailboxes in 1842, further developing the concept throughout Europe.
In the UK, one of the oldest surviving mailboxes is a wall-mounted mailbox that was originally fitted to the Wakefield Post Office. Today, this item of postal history is preserved and displayed in a museum in Wakefield, reminding us how simple innovations changed the way the world communicated.
Mailboxes Take to the Streets
The concept of curbside mailboxes didn’t come about until 1857. Roadside boxes were created as an economical alternative to the pillar boxes, which were more expensive to install and maintain. They were used extensively in rural areas, where distance and accessibility made central collection points less practical.
Surprisingly, the UK’s first pillar box arrived much later than that—i.e., in 1983 in Botchergate, Carlisle. While pillar boxes themselves became synonymous with the postal service, particularly in Britain, the curbside box became ubiquitous in filling suburb and countryside skylines, particularly in the United States.
Celebrating Through Mailbox Design
Mailboxes have also been employed to commemorate important cultural and historical events. Special issues were produced to commemorate the Olympics, World Expos, national anniversaries, and other important events. These adorned or stylized ones were among the first types of custom mailboxes, and they brought an element of personality and pride to what was otherwise a utilitarian product.
The Move towards Innovation
The 20th century also witnessed its share of revolutionary changes as far as the design and functionality of mailboxes were concerned. From companies experimenting with new materials, colors, and dimensions, the mailbox slowly but surely became a fully customizable and sturdy addition to the home.
Among the newer innovations are safe lock systems, weather-resistant materials, and oversized compartments for packages and internet shipments. Cluster or multi-unit mailboxes now appear in apartment complexes and high-density communities as a more efficient mail delivery system for urban areas.
Businesses such as GoMailboxes have stepped forward to lead this revolution, providing a variety of customized mailboxes that are both beautiful and functional. From modern sleek designs to distressed vintage looks, homeowners now have more choices than ever before to select a mailbox that suits their home while providing strength and security.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mailboxes
As our modes of communication migrate online, it would seem the days of the antiquated mailbox are over. Yet the increasing prevalence of e-commerce has re-tasked the mailbox for the digital age—to process everything from correspondence to parcels to grocery home delivery.
As smart home technology becomes more mainstream, mailboxes in the future might be pre-installed with digital locks, sensors, and real-time delivery alerts. From being handmade bespoke mailboxes along rural roads, it might become high-tech devices in smart homes and futuristic cities.
Conclusion
From their humble beginnings in Europe in the 19th century to their role in the intelligent neighborhoods of today, mailboxes have come a long way. And of specific interest is how much of that was fueled by customization. With GoMailboxes and others pushing the envelope and innovating ever further, one thing can be said for sure—today’s custom mailboxes can quickly become tomorrow’s everyman mailboxes.