VERY OLD LETTER BOXES
Let's explore the fascinating history of Ireland's oldest letter boxes, some of which date back to the 1850s. These enduring relics not only serve as functional pieces of postal history but also add a touch of elegance to their surroundings.
The title of Ireland's oldest surviving letter box is a subject of some debate. One strong contender is the Ashworth Box, currently housed in the National Museum at Collins Barracks. This example, dating from the 1850s, is likely the oldest in existence, although it is no longer in active use. Descriptions of this box sometimes refer to it as wall-mounted, which contradicts the free-standing example displayed at Collins Barracks. It is possible that differing versions of the Ashworth box were produced.
Another notable example is the hexagonal Penfold post box, located in New Ross, County Wexford. This distinctive cast-iron pillar box, dating from around 1866, stands outside the Royal Hotel on North Street. While commonly referred to as a 'Penfold Hexagonal', it was actually designed by John Wormham Penfold (1828-1909) as the 'New Standard Letter Box'. Its design may have been influenced by octagonal post boxes commissioned in 1852. Manufactured by Cochrane Grove and Company of Dudley, these hexagonal boxes were relatively rare in both Ireland and Britain.
The hexagonal design of the Penfold boxes proved problematic, as letters occasionally became lodged in the corners. This led to the adoption of the more familiar cylindrical post box, which eliminated this issue.
It's important to note that many of Ireland's oldest surviving post boxes were originally painted green, later being repainted in the iconic British 'pillarbox red'. Traces of this original green paint can still be found on some examples. Following independence, Ireland reverted to its own distinct green for its post boxes.
Furthermore, accurately dating these historical artefacts can be challenging. Often, only the manufacturing date can be confirmed, rather than the precise year of installation.
The title of Ireland's oldest surviving letter box is a subject of some debate. One strong contender is the Ashworth Box, currently housed in the National Museum at Collins Barracks. This example, dating from the 1850s, is likely the oldest in existence, although it is no longer in active use. Descriptions of this box sometimes refer to it as wall-mounted, which contradicts the free-standing example displayed at Collins Barracks. It is possible that differing versions of the Ashworth box were produced.
Another notable example is the hexagonal Penfold post box, located in New Ross, County Wexford. This distinctive cast-iron pillar box, dating from around 1866, stands outside the Royal Hotel on North Street. While commonly referred to as a 'Penfold Hexagonal', it was actually designed by John Wormham Penfold (1828-1909) as the 'New Standard Letter Box'. Its design may have been influenced by octagonal post boxes commissioned in 1852. Manufactured by Cochrane Grove and Company of Dudley, these hexagonal boxes were relatively rare in both Ireland and Britain.
The hexagonal design of the Penfold boxes proved problematic, as letters occasionally became lodged in the corners. This led to the adoption of the more familiar cylindrical post box, which eliminated this issue.
It's important to note that many of Ireland's oldest surviving post boxes were originally painted green, later being repainted in the iconic British 'pillarbox red'. Traces of this original green paint can still be found on some examples. Following independence, Ireland reverted to its own distinct green for its post boxes.
Furthermore, accurately dating these historical artefacts can be challenging. Often, only the manufacturing date can be confirmed, rather than the precise year of installation.
VERY OLD LETTER BOXES