City's fine examples of post box history

CHRIS ROBINSON HEARS HOW THE POSTAL SERVICE HAS DEVELOPED OVER TIME

- CHRIS ROBINSON

THANKS to Russell Carkett for a fascinating look at something we have doubtless all used at some time or other, but more likely than not on a rapidly reducing basis.

Most readers will be aware of a letter box or post box near their residence, but many will not be aware of the history or the variety of those found in Plymouth. Indeed, one of the oldest boxes in the country resides in a corner of the former Royal Naval Hospital, in Stonehouse.

Made by J M Butt of Gloucester, circa 1853, it has stood in its original position for approximately 170 years.

It began its life painted in 'bronze green, a colour favoured by Victorian metal workers, then red, a shade of blue and now a resplendent green again, reflecting its historical listed status.

Being a private box for hospital staff only, it bears no Royal cypher, "Post Office' or 'Letters Only' casting and no maker's mark. Early boxes like this one had vertical apertures until 1859, when standardisation was introduced.

A 'patients only box' of indeterminable age can be found under a colonnade in the hospital, another survivor from a bygone age. Under the protection of the security team, they should remain indefinitely.