Surcoat over mail carrier

A great topic!

In medieval times, a surcoat was a type of outer garment worn over armor, including mail (also known as chainmail). The surcoat was a loose-fitting tunic or cloak that covered the armor, often reaching down to the knees or even the ankles. It was typically made of fabric, such as wool, linen, or silk, and was designed to provide additional protection against the elements, as well as to display the wearer's coat of arms or other heraldic devices.

Mail carriers, also known as mailmen or postmen, were not typically armored warriors, but rather civilian workers responsible for delivering mail and messages. However, in some cases, mail carriers may have worn a surcoat over their clothing to protect themselves from the elements or to identify themselves as official messengers.

Here are a few examples of surcoats worn by mail carriers:

1. In the 12th century, the English monarch, King Henry II, issued a decree requiring all mail carriers to wear a surcoat with the royal arms to identify themselves as official messengers.
2. During the Middle Ages, mail carriers in Europe often wore a simple tunic or surcoat with a hood to protect themselves from the rain and wind.
3. In the 15th century, the French postal service, known as the "Messageries Royales," issued a regulation requiring mail carriers to wear a surcoat with the royal arms and a distinctive hat to identify themselves as official messengers.

In summary, while mail carriers were not typically armored warriors, they may have worn a surcoat over their clothing to provide additional protection and to identify themselves as official messengers.