PostboxMap.co.uk - Open Source Postbox Mapping Project

About the Project

Who I Am:

My name is Luke, and I'm the creator of PostboxMap.co.uk. My interest in postboxes was sparked recently, following the passing of our late queen. It was then that I began to notice the intriguing ciphers on postboxes and started looking out for the VR's (Victoria Regina) as I was driving around. I soon realized that these postboxes were not just everyday objects but pieces of history, and I wanted to find a way to document their locations.

What the Project Is About:

Postboxes have played a significant role in the history of the United Kingdom's postal service. They are iconic symbols of communication and have witnessed countless events and milestones throughout the years. PostboxMap.co.uk seeks to document and map these historical artifacts to preserve their legacy for generations to come. The platform allows users to view postboxes by reign, locate them on a map, and even contribute by adding missing ones.

How It Started:

As I found more VR's and other ciphers, the idea of creating a map where I could plot them with a photo began to take shape. I started plotting others that I noticed as I was passing by, and I realized that it would be great if anyone could submit their findings. That's how PostboxMap.co.uk was born, just a few weeks ago.

The Goal:

My vision for this project is to have an open-source database with the location of all the postboxes in the UK, along with their reign and photos. I'm currently working on the web app, and I plan to develop a mobile app to make submissions and identification easier. Beyond just mapping, I hope that this project can educate people about the history of postboxes and the different ciphers.

Get Involved:

The project is currently in its early stages, and I welcome contributors from the community to help expand the database, improve features, and enhance the overall user experience. Whether you are a developer, historian, photographer, or just a postbox enthusiast, your contributions are valuable and appreciated. The project is open source, and collaboration is possible through GitHub. Additionally, the data is accessible via an API for further innovation.

Together, we can celebrate the rich history of postboxes in the UK and ensure that their stories are preserved for future generations.

Features

Interactive Map

The main feature of PostboxMap.co.uk is the interactive map that allows users to explore postboxes from different reigns and historical periods.

Postbox Details

Each postbox on the map is accompanied by relevant information, such as the reign, location, date, and image.

Add Missing Postboxes

The "Add Missing Postboxes" page allows users to contribute to the database by submitting information and images of postboxes that are not yet included in the map.

Open Source

The project is open source and available for collaboration on GitHub. The website, user map, and data are all accessible, with data provided via an API.

How to Contribute

We believe in the power of community-driven projects, and your contribution can make a significant impact on PostboxMap.co.uk. Here are some ways you can get involved:

Add Missing Postboxes: If you come across any postboxes that are not yet on the map, you can contribute by submitting their details and images through the "Add Missing Postboxes" page.
Bug Reports and Feature Requests: If you encounter any issues while using the website or have ideas for new features, please open an issue on the GitHub repository.
Code Contributions: Developers can contribute to the project by improving existing features, fixing bugs, or adding new functionalities. Fork the repository, make your changes, and submit a pull request.
Documentation: Help us improve the documentation by suggesting edits, clarifications, or adding new sections.
Spread the Word: Share PostboxMap.co.uk with fellow postbox enthusiasts and history lovers. The more people know about the project, the richer the database will become.