Survey Data
Reg No
15401118
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Historical, Social, Technical
Original Use
Post box
In Use As
Post box
Date
1880 - 1900
Coordinates
238524, 262817
Date Recorded
12/11/2004
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Wall-mounted cast-iron post box, c.1890, with 'VR' royal cipher and raised crown motif. Set in rendered gate pier at entrance to Wilson's Hospital. Makers name appears at base in raised lettering ' T. Allen & Co. London '.
Appraisal
This cast-iron post box, which is still in use, is an important feature located just outside the grounds of Wilson's Hospital School. The modest design of the box is enhanced by the royal cipher with crown motif, which enliven the appearance of this otherwise functional and mass-produced cast-iron artefact. It identifies the reign of Victoria (1837-1901). Many pre-independence post boxes were simply painted green and retained their royal insignia but are becoming a rarer sight and are worthy of retention.