From pillar to post

Abstract

MEPA board has recently approved the scheduling of cast iron pillar boxes and telephone booths which were erected in Malta during the British Colonial Administration. This step was taken to protect these landmarks which are considered as vulnerable, since they are more susceptible to removal or damage through carelessness or speculation. Cast iron pillar post boxes were introduced in Britain in 1852 and wall mounted ones in 1857. The use of cast iron for external street furniture was found sustainable due its long-lasting properties. Telephone exchanges in Britain were opened in the late 1870s. However, the standard telephone booth was adopted in 1926, known as the K2, and which was designed by Giles Gilbert Scott. In 1936 Sir Gilbert Scott designed a new 'Jubilee Kiosk' (K6) that was externally smaller; had thinner walls, providing larger internal space. The use of red for telephone booths and post boxes was intended to help users find out the facility with more ease. All cast-iron post boxes and telephone booths in Britain are now statutorily protected, and redundant post boxes are still conserved in their original place but have their slots sealed. [excerpt]