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New letter boxes being mistaken for heating stoves!, 1855
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New letter boxes being mistaken for heating stoves!, 1855
New letter boxes being mistaken for heating stoves!, 1855. One of Londons first pillar (letter) boxes was erected by the Post Office at the corner of Fleet Street and Farringdon Street. Cartoon from Punch. (London March 1855)
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14836880
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Convenience Farringdon Street Fleet Street Innovation Letter Box Mail Mistake Pillar Box Post Postbox Ann Ronan Pictures Bemused Bewildered Postal Service
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from 1855 captures a humorous moment in Victorian London. Titled "New letter boxes being mistaken for heating stoves!", the cartoon depicts one of London's first pillar (letter) boxes erected by the Post Office at the corner of Fleet Street and Farringdon Street. The image showcases a scene where men, seemingly bewildered, mistake these new letter boxes for heating stoves. The concept of this innovation in communications is portrayed with wit and satire. As people pass by on the road, their bemused expressions add to the comical atmosphere. This engraving from Punch magazine reflects both the convenience brought by these new postal services and also highlights how unfamiliar they were to society at that time. The artist skillfully captures the essence of 19th-century Britain through this monochrome depiction. The bustling street, lined with buildings and people going about their daily lives, transports us back to an era when mail was an essential means of communication. With its blend of humor and historical context, this print serves as a reminder of how far we have come in terms of technological advancements in communication systems. It also offers a glimpse into everyday life during that period while showcasing British wit and creativity through satire.
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