Holden Golden Mailboxes

CherylSep 20, 20193 min read

The Three Memory Mailboxes of Holden Beach, NC

Those that visit Holden Beach often hear about the Golden Holden Memory Mailboxes. Not many are aware that there are 3 mailboxes on the island and the history that surrounds their mysterious appearances.

A little history lesson: Inspired by a man named Frank Nesmith. He and a woman named Claudia, who he briefly dated in the late 1970s, placed the original "Kindred Spirit" mailbox in a remote location more than 35 years ago near what is now Bird Island and Sunset Beach. They left a notebook inside, hoping people would leave messages. But they never dreamed it would be so successful. Mr. Nesmith said she had this mirage in her head for many years of a mailbox in the sand, and she never knew why. Over the years, it would just pop into her head. When she came to Sunset Beach, it all started to make more sense. Claudia first put up the mailbox on a spit of sand on Tubbs Inlet, which separates Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle Beach. When the little island got washed away with time and the changing tides, the mailbox was moved to Bird Island in 1983. Over the years thousands have come here to share their innermost thoughts, and to read about the lives of others. In a world where people who never meet can be "Kindred Spirits."

Other beaches have followed the examples of Frank and Claudia and helped start their own version of a "Kindred Spirits" mailbox.

Thanks to many people, many who are unknow to us, Holden Beach has three mailboxes named "Holden Golden Memories"? There are several news stations that have been to Holden Beach and shared the story about these beautiful and special mailboxes.

Finding one of the three mailboxes can be a fun adventure with lasting memories. Each mailbox has its own unique beauty and appeal with notebooks and pen inside waiting on a very special journal entry. One will find many messages and letters left to the “Sea Angels” to protect. The elements of the ocean, wind and storms have changed the landscape and the mailboxes themselves, however the joy and adventure of finding each of these amazing mailboxes is truly unforgettable and humbling. Take a few moments reading the journal entries and you too will want to participate in documenting your adventures and experiences on Holden Beach.

Where can you find these special mailboxes?

East end mailbox-This is the first and original mailbox placed on Holden Beach. It is located on the east end of the island. As a reference point, people use the house called Amazing Grace, a bright yellow house that is the last house on the front row on the east end to know they are close to the mailbox. Most people drive to the east of the island, park and then walk around to the back side of the island. Make sure to avoid parking in driveways and make sure you park in designated parking areas. Begin your journey around to the left of the ICW and you will soon find the mailbox on the east end of the island. Look closely off to your right and you will see Oak Island and the lighthouse on Bald Head Island. See attached map below:

West end mailbox-The second mailbox is located on the west end of the island. Parking is not an option near the mailbox on that end of the island as it is a private-gated community. You will need to walk on the beach via the public access near 917 Ocean Blvd. West. You can find parking on Marlin Drive. Walk out on the beach, turn right and then walk around to the back side of the western part of the island facing Shallotte Point. You will be able to see Ocean Isle from the sound side. The walk is a very, very long one, so be prepared with good walking shoes, water, hat, sunscreen and a snack. You will see the mailbox up by the point, off in the dunes.

Sailfish mailbox-The third and most recently placed mailbox is off Sailfish Park. This mailbox location was selected to offer individuals with mobility issues and small children an opportunity to experience the thrill and excitement of finding a mailbox and writing a memory tale message. Placed in memory of a resident who always wanted to walk to the mailboxes but could not because of health issues and another member of that family who is a paraplegic, the family felt it important to offer all individuals the mailbox experience and the fun of finding them. This mailbox is easily accessible via car by driving right up to the mailbox or via bike. Pack a picnic for the family and enjoy the beauty of the ships and boats on the ICW and eat lunch at one of the picnic tables. Enjoy your time relaxing in the breeze and making special memories.