Miami, FL — A Feb. 6 pictorial postmark from the U.S. Postal Service will commemorate this weekend’s Boy Scouts of America – South Florida Council’s 57th Annual Barefoot Mailman Hike.

The term barefoot mailman refers to the carriers on the first U.S. Mail route (1885-1892) between Palm Beach and the settlements around the body of water known as Lake Worth on the north, and Miami, Coconut Grove, and Lemon City to the south. This weekend (Feb. 5-6) approximately 400 South Florida scouts and scout leaders will hike 34-miles, along portions of the historic trails.

In October 1887, Carrier James Hamilton mysteriously disappeared along the journey. It is believed he lost his life at Hillsboro Inlet, attempting to retrieve a dingy he used to get across the waterway. Modern-day participants will be carrying commemorative letters on their journey. And just like the Barefoot Mailmen, they will be self-sufficient, carrying food, water, and camping equipment.

At the end of their journey on Saturday night, Feb. 5, participants will camp at Haulover Park in Miami Beach. On Sunday, Feb. 6, postal officials will affix a “Barefoot Mailman Station” pictorial postmark (left) on letters. South Floridians also may obtain a postmark by addressing their requests to Barefoot Mailman Station, Postmaster, 2200 NW 72 Ave, Suite 514, Miami, FL 33152-9998. Affix stamps to an envelope, address it to themselves or others, and insert a card of postcard thickness, and then place in a larger envelope for mailing.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to fund its operations.

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