Postal patches and uniforms

Did you know mail delivery in large cities began in 1863, but no official uniforms were worn until after 1868, when Congress passed legislation authorizing use of uniforms by letter carriers?

Over the years uniforms were modified for practical purposes and various badges, patches, and other insignia evolved as styles changed.

Shown above is a letter carrier in the 1960s wearing a military-style uniform.

The first uniform emblem patch appeared in 1955. It featured the Post Office Department seal of a horse and rider facing right. In 1965 the direction of the horse was flipped to face “forward” and a craft tab with the words "Letter Carrier" was added just above the patch.

To see and learn more about U.S. Postal Service clothing, patches, uniforms, and accessories, click here.