Post boxes mail boxes

The humble post box! Here are some interesting facts and types of post boxes:

History of Post Boxes

The first post box was introduced in 1852 in the United Kingdom by Sir Rowland Hill, who also invented the postage stamp. The first post box was a wooden box with a slot on top and a hinged door on the front.

Types of Post Boxes

  1. Traditional Post Boxes: These are the classic, iconic post boxes with a red or blue color scheme, typically found in the UK and other English-speaking countries.
  2. Wall-Mounted Post Boxes: These are smaller post boxes mounted on walls, often found in urban areas.
  3. Freestanding Post Boxes: These are larger post boxes that stand on their own, often found in rural areas.
  4. Mailboxes with Locks: These post boxes have locks to secure the mail inside, often used in high-security areas.
  5. Electronic Post Boxes: These post boxes use electronic sensors to detect when mail is inserted and can send notifications to the recipient.
  6. Smart Post Boxes: These post boxes can track the mail inside and provide real-time updates on the recipient's phone or computer.

Interesting Facts

  1. The World's Largest Post Box: The largest post box in the world is located in the UK and measures over 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
  2. The First Post Box in the US: The first post box in the United States was installed in 1847 in Boston, Massachusetts.
  3. Post Box Art: Many post boxes around the world have been decorated with art, making them a popular tourist attraction.
  4. Post Box Collectors: There are many collectors of post boxes, known as "post box enthusiasts" or "post box collectors."
  5. Post Box Maintenance: Post boxes require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional and secure.

Fun Facts

  1. The Average Post Box Holds: About 20-30 pieces of mail before it needs to be emptied.
  2. The Fastest Post Box: The fastest post box in the world is the "Speedpost" box in the UK, which can sort and dispatch mail in just 10 seconds.
  3. The Most Expensive Post Box: The most expensive post box in the world is the "Golden Post Box" in the UK, made of solid gold and valued at over $1 million.

I hope you found these facts and types of post boxes interesting!