Thread: How were old letters mailed?

Paper was expensive, so letters (especially run-of-the-mill correspondence) were not usually put in envelopes. Typically they were just sealed with wax and sent off. If an envelope was used, I'd imagine there would be no reason to seal the letter itself.

If you're looking to buy sealing wax, check the calligraphy section of your local craft-store. Book stores sometimes carry the stuff in kits, complete with quill pens and ink. If you want to have a custom seal made, there are plenty of online retailers that provide that service. Just google 'sealing wax' and they'll pop up.

The 'post' was generally the province of those with money. The further back you go the rarer litracy gets. In early times messangers on horseback would deliver individual letters. They would generally be retainers or servants of the sender. One might send back a response with the same messanger.

Later government mail services were set up. These were generally contracted out. For long distanc mail the service might have run twice a year.

This is a great question. Which country are we talking about? Not all countries did things the same way due to sheer distance in some cases cultural issues in others.

Often times only the folded letter was sealed, OR the Envelope (if used) to ensure that it had not be tampered with, normally a very custom seal was used in theses cases.

If you are wondering about a rolled scroll which would be transported by courier in a tube or satchel, then the letter was sealed at the bottom with a signet ring to symbolize "official seal" this practice is still in use today, but it is now a raised stamp seal in the paper or in a foil overlay as opposed to a wax.

I hope some of this helps you.

Oh then just use a wax seal with maybe a heart or something on it, I would suggest even a piece of Jewelry that you have (ring/earring/charm) to show sentimental value.