Victorian Pillar Box - Sandgate Road, Folkestone, UK
N 51° 04.585 E 001° 10.031
31U E 371607 N 5659921
This Victorian pillar box stands on a triangular piece of land opposite Holy Trinity Church.
Waymark Code: WME4BY
Location: South East England, United Kingdom
Date Posted: 04/02/2012
Views: 6
On first seeing this pillar box it was thought that it may be a replica as there are several, of this shape, in use. The replica version normally has the word "Replica" stamped on the base/plinth. This box has the wording "Cochrane & Co Dudley" on the plinth.
Referring to the website, A History of the British Post Box", tells us that:
"Penfold Hexagonal; Known as the 'New Standard Letter Box' designed by J.W. Penfold and built by Cochrane in Birmingham; Examples of these can be seen in Pulteney Street, and Laura Place, Bath."
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Further investigation reveals that the pillar box is Grade II listed and the English Heritage entry reads:
"1. 5281 SANDGATE ROAD (North West Side) FOLKESTONE Pillar Box TR 23 NW 10/248 II 2. 1868-79. A hexagonal 'Penfold' with plinth and acorn finial."
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I would dispute the location being on the north west side of Sandgate Road as it is now on the south side.
The box, for its 150 years age, is in excellent condition and is well maintained. All too often sloppy paint work is observed but the paint on this pillar box has been applied well and accurately with no paint on the glass collection time panel.