WASHINGTON DC, United States — A display of vintage US post office boxes at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in Washington DC. These historical post office boxes were originally a core feature of US Post Offices, where customers could retrieve their mail.


Photograph by David Coleman. The vintage US post office boxes exhibit at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in Washington DC offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of mail delivery and storage. This display features an array of historical post office boxes, typically dating from the late 19th or early 20th century. The boxes are likely made of brass or a similar durable material, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the era. Visitors can observe the intricate designs of the box doors, complete with combination locks or keyholes, reflecting the postal service's commitment to mail security and customer privacy. The exhibit may include different sizes of boxes, illustrating how the postal service catered to varying customer needs. This collection of post office boxes not only represents a functional aspect of postal history but also serves as a tangible link to the social fabric of American communities, where visiting the post office was often a daily ritual. The display provides insight into the evolution of postal services and the enduring importance of efficient, secure mail delivery systems in the United States.


Size: 8256px × 5504px
Location: NoMa, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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