Built in the early 1920s, Hengfengli at Lane 69 Shanyin Road boasts a history of around 100 years. Recently, the letter boxes of houses in the lane have undergone a facelift, which has been welcomed by many residents.

Engraved with the word “LETTER” and carved patterns that are commonly seen on Western architecture, the new letter boxes are a perfect match with the style of Shanghai’s Shikumen Longtang. They are installed around the original places, so as to be easily found by the postmen. Each household has its own letter box.

Before the renovation started, residents could select their favorite color for the letter box. Females generally preferred gold and silver colors, while men had an affinity for black or grey.

The letter box carries people’s joys and sorrows in daily life. In many Shanghainese people’s memories, when it was sunset, the elderly people at home would go out, open the mailbox and read the daily newspaper sitting in a rattan chair.

By the end of this year, the overhaul project of Hengfengli will be completed. Apart from letter boxes, the rain sheds and drying racks will also be renovated.