Po mail boxes

PO mailboxes! Those iconic, red, cylindrical mailboxes that are a staple of many neighborhoods. Here are some interesting facts about PO mailboxes:

  1. History: The first PO mailboxes were introduced in the United States in 1858, during the administration of Postmaster General Charles G. Morrill. They were designed to provide a secure and convenient way for people to deposit their mail.
  2. Design: The classic PO mailbox design, with its rounded shape and hinged lid, was patented in 1873 by a man named Joseph W. Wilson. The design has remained largely unchanged to this day.
  3. Red color: The distinctive red color of PO mailboxes was introduced in 1917, during World War I, as a way to make them more visible and recognizable. The color has since become synonymous with the US Postal Service.
  4. Security: PO mailboxes are designed to be secure, with a hinged lid that can be locked and a slot that allows mail to be deposited without opening the box. They are also made of durable materials to withstand the elements and heavy use.
  5. Variations: While the classic PO mailbox design is the most well-known, there are actually several variations, including larger and smaller sizes, as well as specialized mailboxes for rural areas and apartment buildings.
  6. Maintenance: PO mailboxes are regularly maintained by the US Postal Service, which includes cleaning, repairing, and replacing them as needed.
  7. Collectibility: Vintage PO mailboxes have become collectible items, with some rare and unique models selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
  8. Artistic significance: PO mailboxes have also become a popular subject for artists, who have used them as a canvas for their work, creating colorful and creative designs that add to the character of neighborhoods.
  9. Cultural impact: PO mailboxes have become an integral part of American culture, symbolizing the importance of communication and connection in our daily lives.
  10. Enduring popularity: Despite the rise of digital communication, PO mailboxes remain a beloved and enduring part of our daily lives, with many people still using them to send and receive mail.

Overall, PO mailboxes are an iconic and integral part of American culture, serving as a symbol of communication, connection, and community.