Mailbox

In the early seventeenth century, modern post offices were founded in Europe. In 1650, the famous European city, Paris, had only four post offices. Communication among the provinces and foreign contacts were the main responsibilities of these post offices. However, there were difficulties in communication among the residents of Paris.

Renouard De Valayer came up with an idea to overcome this problem. He introduced post offices in the streets for public posting of letters. He hung several collection boxes at the street comers around Paris for the residents to drop off their letters into these collection boxes. The postmen then collected these letters three times a day. In addition, residents had to attach a postage receipt on the letter before dropping it into the collection box (stamps were not available at the time). These boxes were the world’s earliest mailboxes.

These mailboxes were very convenient for the residents in Paris. In 1780, the number of mailboxes rose to more than 500 units. At the same time, such mailboxes were also found in other parts of France. Since then, countries around the world have used these mailboxes in delivering their mails.

Food for Thought :

Demand leads to invention and innovation. Many innovative and creative inspirations arise from problems encountered in our daily lives.

Short Stories on Discoveries, Inventions, Innovation & Creativity

AAET and UTAR, 2015

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