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Mail in a Bucket: Detroit’s Little Boat With a Big Job
Season 7
Episode 22
Published 1 month, 3 weeks ago
Description
A freighter keeps moving. A small boat pulls alongside. High above the water, a bucket descends on a rope. For a sailor waiting for news from home, this is the delivery that matters.
In this episode of End of the Road in Michigan, we follow the J.W. Westcott Company from its beginnings in 1874 to its role as Detroit’s floating mail service. Capt. John Ward Westcott started by carrying shipping instructions to passing vessels. His practical solution grew into a business delivering letters, packages, supplies and even pizza.
Meet the 45-foot J.W. Westcott II, learn how ZIP code 48222 serves people aboard passing ships, and hear why this unusual delivery route has lasted more than 150 years. It’s a Michigan maritime story about skilled boat crews, changing technology and the lasting pleasure of receiving something from home.
Listen along, and follow End of the Road in Michigan for more stories about Michigan’s people and past.
The End of the Road in Michigan is a production of Thumbwind Publications
In this episode of End of the Road in Michigan, we follow the J.W. Westcott Company from its beginnings in 1874 to its role as Detroit’s floating mail service. Capt. John Ward Westcott started by carrying shipping instructions to passing vessels. His practical solution grew into a business delivering letters, packages, supplies and even pizza.
Meet the 45-foot J.W. Westcott II, learn how ZIP code 48222 serves people aboard passing ships, and hear why this unusual delivery route has lasted more than 150 years. It’s a Michigan maritime story about skilled boat crews, changing technology and the lasting pleasure of receiving something from home.
Listen along, and follow End of the Road in Michigan for more stories about Michigan’s people and past.
The End of the Road in Michigan is a production of Thumbwind Publications