
The Maryborough Post Office in Victoria is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.
Built in 1871, this historic post office has been a cornerstone of the community for over 150 years.
Its design features a mix of Victorian and Italianate styles, with a striking clock tower that has become a familiar landmark in the area.
The post office has undergone several restorations over the years, but its original charm and character have been preserved.
History of the Post Office
The History of the Post Office is a story of growth and development. The first post office in Australia was established in 1809 in New South Wales.
The Post Office Act of 1825 marked a significant milestone, allowing the establishment of post offices in other colonies. This led to a rapid expansion of the postal network across the country.
The introduction of the Penny Black postage stamp in 1840 revolutionized the postal system, making it more accessible and affordable for the general public.
Early Years

The Early Years of the Post Office were marked by humble beginnings. In 1639, Richard Fairclough, a businessman from London, was granted a license to collect and deliver letters between the city and the countryside.
The first postal service was a response to the need for a reliable way to communicate between towns and cities. It was a hand-to-hand delivery system that relied on riders to carry mail between post offices.
Fairclough's postal service was a significant innovation in its time, as it provided a standardized and efficient way to send and receive mail. This early postal system was a precursor to the modern postal services we know today.
The first postal rates were introduced in 1661, with letters weighing up to half an ounce costing one penny to send. This marked the beginning of a formalized postal system with standardized rates and regulations.
By the 1670s, the postal service had expanded to include regular mail runs between major towns and cities. This expansion was a testament to the growing demand for postal services and the need for a reliable way to communicate over long distances.
Notable Events

The Post Office has a rich history of notable events that shaped its development.
The first postage stamp was introduced in the United States in 1847, costing 5 cents to mail a letter.
In 1863, the Pony Express was established to deliver mail quickly across the country, but it only lasted for 18 months before being replaced by the transcontinental telegraph.
The Post Office Department was established in 1792, with Samuel Osgood as its first Postmaster General.
The first airmail service was introduced in 1918, with airmail planes flying between New York and Washington D.C.
The Post Office has also played a significant role in times of war, with the first military mail service established in 1775 during the American Revolution.
Post Office Details
The Maryborough Post Office is a historic building that has been serving the community since 1859. It's located on the corner of Albert Street and Stanley Street in Maryborough, Victoria.
The post office is a significant landmark in the town, offering a range of services including mail and parcel delivery, as well as banking and financial services.
Description

The post office is a vital part of our daily lives, providing a range of services to help us send and receive mail and packages.
The post office is typically open Monday through Saturday, with varying hours of operation on Sundays. You can check your local post office's hours of operation online or by calling them directly.
From sending a simple letter to shipping a large package, the post office has the tools and expertise to get your mail moving.
The most common services offered by the post office include mail delivery, package shipping, and money orders. You can also purchase stamps and other postal supplies at your local post office.
Whether you're sending a birthday card to a loved one or a care package to a friend, the post office makes it easy to get your mail delivered quickly and efficiently.
The post office also offers tracking and insurance options for packages, giving you peace of mind that your mail will arrive safely and on time.
Condition and Integrity

The condition and integrity of a post office building are crucial to its preservation and functionality. Externally, Maryborough Post Office has maintained its original design and architectural conception despite some alterations and additions.
These changes have been largely confined to the rear of the building, with minor modifications to the verandah area and installation of private letter boxes. The building's exterior has been well maintained, but there is a notable section of fallen first floor cornice moulding at the rear of the quarters.
Internally, cumulative works have diminished the legibility of the former operations and integrity of original finishes. The installation of floor linings, replacement ceilings, and mechanical ducting have altered the original presentation of the key plan.
The main postal hall retains its double height volume and clerestory highlights, but has been diminished in aesthetic terms by the installation of standardized slat wall joinery and counters. Very few original fittings and furniture remain, although some original timber-framed windows and panel doors are still evident.
Original timber-framed windows and panel doors are still present in the building, as well as the strong room and panelled timber ventilation ducts.
Heritage Listing
The Maryborough Post Office in Victoria has a rich history that's been recognized by the Heritage Council of Australia. It was listed on the Victorian Heritage Register in 1999.
The post office is a fine example of Victorian-era architecture, with a symmetrical façade and a decorative parapet. Its design reflects the influence of the Italianate style.
Built in 1870, the post office has been a hub of activity in Maryborough for over 150 years. It's a testament to the town's growth and development during the 19th century.
The post office has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, but its original façade remains intact. This is a rare example of a post office building that has retained its original character.
Today, the Maryborough Post Office is still in use, serving the local community with its postal services and other amenities. It's a popular tourist destination and a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maryborough_Post_Office_(Victoria)
- https://www.aussietowns.com.au/town/maryborough-vic
- https://www.ourfrasercoast.com.au/news/article/139/moments-in-time
- https://medium.com/@melaniebroad/the-story-of-maryborough-vic-7d654a97dc62
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Post_offices_in_Victoria,_Australia
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