The Downpatrick and County Down Railway has announced that it has received a former Travelling Post Office

The Post Office has been moved to the railway’s workshops. Some work will take place for it to be placed on display in the Carriage gallery.

This will allow visitors to explore and learn about the history of the postal service.

Visitors will also be able to learn how important the railways were at delivering the nation’s post.

What did the officials say?

Museum curator, Neil Hamilton, explained what a TPO is “A TPO is essentially what the name says – it’s a specialised railway vehicle where mail is sorted en route to its destination. The DCDR is delighted to be able to display this unique piece of railway heritage in our viewing gallery.”

Neil Hamilton pointed out that “Irish TPOs were equipped with letterboxes on either side of the carriage so that mail could be posted whilst the train was stopped at a station on the route. A notice under the post boxes declared that an additional halfpence stamp was required for availing of this privilege! Today, the post-marks from TPOs are highly valued by stamp collectors”.

Stephen Ferguson, Assistant Secretary Museum Curator of An Post, said, “I am delighted that our Travelling Post Office carriage, number 2977, has found a new home in the ancient town of Downpatrick.”

• Visit the DCDR Website
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