In the early years of the 20th century, mail was delivered in Basking Ridge by horse and cart. The inscription reads “ ‘Martha Bell’ after 6 years service on Route 1, Basking Ridge, NJ” (Nettie Allen Collection). The post office started experimenting with Rural Free Delivery (RFD) in the late 19th century and expanded it in 1902.
By 1925, Martha Bell had been replaced by Louis C. Day (1878-1945) and his truck. Day, a native of Stirling, lived on Conkling Street in Basking Ridge.
She was a beautiful horse.
Where exactly was Rt 1 in Basking Ridge?
Hi Mary Ann, We don’t know where RFD Route #1 was, perhaps wherever Martha Bell decided to go 🙂