Getting a letter in the mail has become normal and almost taken for granted. While we almost expect this service to happen without any effort on our end, we may not realize that this wasn’t always the case. It’s interesting to think that something we deem as a necessity originated in the not too distant past. Today, we’ll be taking a look at the history of mail.
It all started during the colonial times of the 1600’s. Back then, there were no post offices. In order to share messages, people thought of clever ways to reach each other. Often, they would leave letters at local taverns or inns in hopes that the intended recipient would pass through the same location and finally get the letter. Ships would travel across the sea to deliver messages to the old world, but it would take months or longer. So, when did we get it all together?
You may have heard of a man by the name of Benjamin Franklin (1706 – 1790). He is recognized for many things, including playing a large role in the U.S. Postal Service. Back on July 26th, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the U.S. Postal System, designating Benjamin Franklin as the first Postmaster General.
Before the U.S. Postal Service, in 1753, Benjamin worked as one of two Postmaster Generals for the colonies. During his work as a Postmaster General in Philadelphia, PA, he improved the system in which letters were delivered dramatically. He set up more efficient colonial routes that eventually cut the time of delivery in half between places like Philadelphia and New York. Benjamin appointed a wagon to carry mail weekly during both day and night, by use of relay teams. Benjamin also established the first rate chart. This chart created a standard that could be measured by distance and weight.
In 1774, though, Benjamin was fired from his position by the British due to his activities in regards to the revolution. The following year, the Continental Congress appointed him as Postmaster General where he held his position until 1776, when he left for France as a diplomat.
His contributions created a mail system with widespread routes throughout the U.S. and Britain. By 1789, there were 75 Post Offices in the country. Today, there are over 40,000. Thanks to Benjamin Franklin, we can now send and receive letters, rain or shine, by means of the nation’s largest civilian employer and self-supporting agency- the U.S. Postal Service.
As we all participate in the use of mail, containers to gather it have only become a necessity. Mailboxes protect vital information from the elements and inclement weather, but also offer an opportunity to make a statement. There are many options in the designs of mailboxes but they all serve one primary purpose- to collect mail. Fifthroom.com offers a variety of mailboxes that fit nearly every style and outdoor living space. Find yours today!
Poly Lumber Deluxe Mailbox w/ Copper Plate Roof – Patriot Blue and White
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