History By Mail

History By Mail is a letter subscription, not a box. Every month you get a replica of a real historical letter in the mail, along with a typed transcription and a short document explaining who wrote it, why, and what happened next.

The core subscription focuses on American history: soldiers writing home from the Civil War and World War II, inventors, presidents, and ordinary people caught up in big moments. The company got a boost after appearing on Shark Tank and has grown a few themed series since.

History By Mail plans and prices

What you get each month

• A replica historical letter, aged to look like the original
• A typed transcription, handy for old cursive
• A context document with the backstory
• Occasional extras on longer plans, like a bonus replica letter

There is also an optional keepsake folio to store your collection.

Themed series

Besides the main subscription, History By Mail offers themed series such as Roots of Revolution (the road to American independence), National Parks, Urban Legends, U.S. Holidays, and American Inventions. Pick one if the person you are buying for has a specific interest.

History By Mail as a gift

It is a great gift for grandparents, history buffs, and kids who like getting mail. You can buy a set number of months or an ongoing subscription. The first letter ships within about five business days, then letters go out mid-month by USPS First Class, usually arriving in 7 to 10 days in the US.

For teachers and homeschoolers

History By Mail has curriculum material for classrooms, and the letters work well as primary sources for discussion. For a full hands-on history program for kids, see the alternatives below.

Is History By Mail worth it?

Yes. For under $9 a month it delivers something you actually read and remember, and it never adds clutter. It is a better gift than a fancy box for most history lovers. Collectors of real artifacts or people wanting world history should look elsewhere.

Pros

• Very affordable
• Letters are genuinely interesting
• Free US shipping
• Lovely, low-clutter gift
• Themed series for specific interests

Cons

• Just one letter a month
• Mostly American history
• Replicas, not antiques

Best alternatives to History By Mail

See more hobby subscription boxes and book subscriptions.

• History By Mail vs Mysteries in Time: Mysteries in Time is a story-led history adventure for kids, with activities.
• History By Mail vs Little Passports: Little Passports teaches kids geography and cultures with monthly kits.
• History By Mail vs Book of the Month: Book of the Month is the pick for readers who want a full book instead of a letter.
• History By Mail vs Literati: Literati curates book clubs, including nonfiction picks.

History By Mail FAQ

How much is History By Mail?

$8.99 a month, or $47.99 for 6 months, $87.99 for 12 months, and $164.99 for 24 months, with free US shipping.

Is there a History By Mail coupon?

Longer prepaid plans are the easiest way to save, and the 24 month plan includes bonus gifts. Check the site for current promos.

How do I cancel History By Mail?

Cancel from the customer portal on the website. Prepaid gift plans simply end when the months run out.

Are the letters real?

They are replicas of real historical letters, printed to look like the originals, with transcriptions.