Hand painted mailboxes massachusetts

What a unique and charming topic! Hand-painted mailboxes are a beloved tradition in Massachusetts, particularly in the coastal towns and villages. Here are some interesting facts and examples:

  1. History: The tradition of hand-painted mailboxes in Massachusetts dates back to the early 20th century. It's believed to have started as a way for postal workers to identify mailboxes in rural areas, where addresses were not always clearly marked.
  2. Artistic expression: Over time, the hand-painted mailboxes evolved into a form of artistic expression. Local artists and residents would paint colorful designs, patterns, and even scenes on the mailboxes to make them stand out.
  3. Coastal towns: Many coastal towns in Massachusetts, such as Provincetown, Truro, and Wellfleet, are famous for their hand-painted mailboxes. The colorful mailboxes have become a hallmark of these towns' charm and character.
  4. Unique designs: Each hand-painted mailbox is a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Designs can range from simple stripes and patterns to intricate scenes, such as lighthouses, seagulls, and even cartoon characters.
  5. Community involvement: In many Massachusetts towns, the hand-painted mailboxes are a community effort. Residents, local artists, and even school groups come together to paint and decorate the mailboxes.
  6. Preservation: In recent years, there has been a growing effort to preserve the hand-painted mailboxes in Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Historical Commission has recognized the mailboxes as a significant cultural resource and has worked to protect and document them.

Some popular places to see hand-painted mailboxes in Massachusetts include:

  1. Provincetown: This charming coastal town at the tip of Cape Cod is famous for its colorful mailboxes.
  2. Truro: Another Cape Cod town with a high concentration of hand-painted mailboxes.
  3. Wellfleet: This picturesque town on the Outer Cape is known for its beautiful beaches and hand-painted mailboxes.
  4. Martha's Vineyard: While not as well-known for hand-painted mailboxes as some of the other towns, Martha's Vineyard still has its share of colorful mailboxes, particularly in the towns of Oak Bluffs and Edgartown.
  5. Nantucket: This historic island off the coast of Cape Cod has a more subdued approach to hand-painted mailboxes, but they can still be found in some of the town's older neighborhoods.

If you're interested in seeing hand-painted mailboxes in Massachusetts, I recommend taking a scenic drive or bike ride through some of these coastal towns. You might even stumble upon some hidden gems and unique designs along the way!