History of the US mailbox, Digi Mart USA News: The classic American mailbox, with its arched shape and small red flag, is so familiar that it is hard to imagine it not existing. According to the publisher’s report, that design was created in 1915, after several earlier versions did not stick.
Between 1850 and 1915, mailboxes went through several iterations, ranging from letter boxes attached to city lampposts to homemade containers in the countryside.
In the late 1800s, mailmen grew frustrated with the wide range of self-made mailboxes in rural areas, where residents used items such as syrup cans and lard pails to collect their mail. In response, the Post Office Department issued specifications for mailboxes in 1901. These required boxes to be made of metal, at least 6 by 8 by 18 inches, and fitted with a small flag, which led to many manufacturers producing boxes, only some of which were officially approved by the Postmaster General.
The arched, tunnel-style box that became familiar was designed by Roy Joroleman and became the standard in rural areas until the requirement was lifted in 1978. According to the report, the Joroleman shape remains popular today. Modern developments in apartment living and urban areas have also produced styles such as cluster mailboxes, locking residential boxes for multi-unit buildings, and door mail slots.
Modern mailboxes can still be personalized. The report notes that a custom mailbox must still bear the Postmaster General’s seal, and that a local postmaster can confirm whether it meets requirements.
Homeowners who prefer a simpler approach can add decals to a standard mailbox, provided the decor carries no advertising and does not create a safety issue. Magnetic decals are presented as a removable option that will not damage the box.
