By: Sally Barmakian

Mailboxes at the end of the driveway are quite common. A wooden post with a tubular metal mailbox attached on top complete with the little red flag to indicate that there is outgoing mail in the box. However, have you ever seen a unique mailbox? 

On my walks and observations while driving, I have seen some creative mailboxes. Some are painted with flowers and birds, or have covers which match a holiday but here are my favorites.

On top of one mailbox was a statue of a bear. On Halloween, it had a mask on, a Santa hat in December, during the winter, a fuzzy wool hat and scarf, and at Easter time – bunny ears! I do hope it got the mail person and neighbors in the spirit of the seasons. Another mailbox was the body of a fish and the open mouth was where the mail was inserted. Many mailboxes are the body of an animal. Picture a black mailbox complete with a head and long, floppy ears, tail, and paws dangling. The cutest dog mailbox ! Just open the tummy to retrieve your mail. 

The most unique and creative “up-cycling” mailbox I ever saw was made from the canister of an old metal vacuum cleaner. Cleaned out and perched on the wooden post, it was sturdy and workable. I always smiled when I drove by. 

Some people plant flowers around the base of the mail post.

A delightful ring of pansies, happy daffodils, and beautiful, red tulip cups. Usually mail is a pleasant part of the day. (Aside from the bills) Birthday cards and packages are often awaited. These special mailboxes welcome the mail every day. For inspiration, just google “unusual mailboxes” and an array of unique ideas are pictured. Next time you take a walk or have the leisure to look out the window as a passenger in a car, take a look at the mailboxes. You just may enjoy what you see.