A Victorian Postbox with a Very Special Christmas Delivery

A Victorian Postbox Finds a New Home

A little piece of Guernsey's postal history has been given a new lease of life, thanks to a thoughtful restoration and a rather special plan for its future. 

Dating from the reign of Queen Victoria (1837–1901), this handsome VR postbox once stood at Le Carrefour au Lièvres, in the Canton des Hamblins, St Martin's. 

Its survival is a story in itself. According to its previous owner, Eclectic’s Mark Chilcott, the postbox was rescued many years ago by a gentleman who happened to be passing the crossroads as it was being removed. Recognising its historical value, he reportedly negotiated its purchase, saving it from an uncertain future. 

Years later, a benefactor was delighted to acquire the postbox from Mark, with the intention of preserving it and finding a suitable new home with National Trust of Guernsey. Working with an additional benefactor, the postbox was professionally restored by Simon Bienvenu of Custom Coatings Guernsey, whose sympathetic workmanship has brought this wonderful Victorian post box back to life. 

The transformation is remarkable. Its original character has been carefully retained, the doors and mechanisms are fully operational, and four substantial steel legs added for temporary seasonal use at the National Trust of Guernsey’s Folk and Costume Museum at Saumarez Park. The finishing touch is its original enamel plate. 

And the story doesn't end with its restoration. The Trust has a rather special role in mind for its Victorian acquisition: inviting Guernsey's children to post their letters to Father Christmas during the festive season. 

A Special Delivery to the North Pole 

This Christmas, children are warmly invited to bring their letters to Father Christmas and post them in our Victorian postbox at the Folk and Costume Museum. And here's the exciting part: Father Christmas has arranged for every letter to receive a personal reply! 

A few things to remember: 

• Write your letter to Father Christmas and pop it into our special Victorian postbox.
• Remember to include your name and a clearly written return postal address so Father Christmas knows where to send his reply.
• First posting date: Friday 13 November 2026
• Last posting date: Wednesday 16 December 2026.
• Then keep an eye on your own letterbox for a little Christmas magic!

While you're visiting, why not enjoy a little Christmas shopping between Friday 13 November and Saturday 19 December? Our beautifully decorated Museum Christmas Shop is filled with traditional toys, unusual gifts, delicious chocolates and seasonal treats, all in the charming surroundings of the Museum's historic courtyard. 

From a St. Martin's crossroads to a new home with National Trust of Guernsey at Saumarez Park, this little survivor has travelled through well over a century of Island history. We look forward to giving it a new purpose, and creating a little Christmas magic along the way!