When we moved to Wellfleet, my daughters considered it a major upgrade that we’d be getting a mailbox. We had gone from one remote village to another, but this one had the perk of mail service via home delivery. Even in rainy stretches, when a small lake in front of the box means mail retrieval involves some wading, they get the mail every day. It’s mostly boring: bills, promotions. But letters from pen pals, past teachers, and grandparents provide a tangible connection to the people we love. Those handwritten accounts of new friends and old, book recommendations, and playground reminiscences are more meaningful than any FaceTime call. In this time of isolation, our mailbox is a lifeline. So, buy stamps, thank your postal workers, and vote for leaders who will protect the institution that brings us news, medicine, and love. —Molly Newman
After Lee Bartell spotted some unique metalwork outside Cape Cod Anchor in Eastham, she commissioned this one-of-a-kind mailbox. (Photos Molly Newman)
Moon Parker built himself a mailbox in Eastham that would offer a daily beacon for the mail carrier and passersby.
Heading to the Wellfleet transfer station, it’s hard not to be charmed by Lori Vanderschmidt’s bright orange mailbox evoking midcentury geometry.
Stephanie Page’s and Meredith Lobur’s Provincetown mailbox announces their passion for great white sharks.
