Mail carrier Russell Bostian used this buggy to deliver mail on a 39-mile route in Salisbury, NC, in the 1920s. He left home early in the morning carrying mail, lunch for himself, and feed for his horse and often returned late at night. He eventually bought a second horse for alternating days. Free delivery began in U.S. cities in 1863, but Rural Free Delivery didn't come to the country until 1896. The first route in North Carolina began that year in China Grove, a few miles south of Salisbury.

North Carolina Transportation Museum
Spencer, NC

02.09.23