This antique Cutler mailbox and mail chute originally came from a multi story building in the early 1900’s. It was created by James G. Cutler, a prominent architect and businessman from Rochester, NY. He received a patent #284,951 for his multi floor letter box connection system on September 11, 1883, which was later called the Cutler-Mail-System.
The mailbox was referred to as the receiving box, which was mounted on the inside ground floor of a multi story bldg. The mail chute was mounted on the floors above, allowing mail to be dropped to the main floor for the postman to collect.
MAILBOX
The antique Cutler mailbox is made of cast iron with a steel top and bottom. The design has ornate molding and trim with raised lettering and a large embossed Eagle. The top has an opening to allow the mail to enter from the chute. There is a mail slot on the front along with a large door, which was used by the postman to retrieve the mail.
MAIL CHUTE
The Cutler mail chute is made of brass and copper with a clear glass panel which acts as window. The brass panel has a slot at the top for dropping mail and the front has beautifully embossed lettering that reads U.S. Mail.
MAKER: Cutler Mail Chute Co., Rochester N.Y.
PERIOD: Early 1900’s
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: United States
CONDITION: Overall both pieces are in very good condition. Mail door and mail slot door are original and in working condition. Painted finish on mailbox is not original and shows signs of wear, paint loss and patina consistent with age and use. The inside shows rust along the bottom backside of the box as shown in the photos. Rubber pad bottom appears to be original and shows signs of shrinkage and cracking due to age. Mail chute copper, brass and glass are all original with natural patina consistent with age and use.
MATERIALS: Cast iron and steel painted / Copper, brass and glass
MAILBOX
HEIGHT: 36 in. (91 cm)
WIDTH: 21 in. (53 cm)
DEPTH: 11.5 in. (29 cm)
MAIL CHUTE
HEIGHT: 47.75 in. (121 cm)
WIDTH: 8.25 in. (21 cm)
DEPTH: 1.5 in. (4 cm)
