Many people who discover History By Mail also come across other history-focused mail services and want to understand how each one approaches historical material. History By Mail was created to give readers direct access to primary sources through faithful replicas and clear context. Our process centers on authenticity, accuracy, and thoughtful curation drawn from trusted archives.

The comparison below outlines how our approach differs from Letterjoy’s and explains what makes History By Mail a distinct educational experience.

History By Mail provides faithful replicas of historical documents. Each item is reproduced from primary sources held in major archives. Replicas preserve original formatting, handwriting, letterhead, and layout so that subscribers can study the document as it appeared.

Letterjoy produces redesigned interpretations of historical letters. Their materials use recreated letterheads, reconstructed elements, and typeset text for readability. This is a stylistic approach rather than a replica-based method.

History By Mail focuses on direct engagement with primary sources. Each delivery includes a context page that explains the document, the individuals involved, and the surrounding historical events. The goal is to encourage critical thinking through original artifacts rather than through modern reinterpretation.

Letterjoy offers weekly letters and includes articles about each selection. Their materials summarize the context and present historical themes in narrative form.

History By Mail works with archivists at leading institutions to select documents and secure rights when required. The collection spans presidential letters, government records, personal correspondence, and other primary sources from American history.

Letterjoy is located near several major archives in Washington, D.C. They select themes and curate documents from a wide range of published historical materials. Proximity to archival institutions does not guarantee access to unpublished documents, but it provides convenience for on-site research when needed.

History By Mail prints replica documents on high-quality paper chosen to reflect the source material. The goal is to preserve the appearance and tactile qualities of historic artifacts. Many subscribers frame their documents or keep them in archival folios for long-term study.

Letterjoy uses a variety of fine stationery papers and mails each letter with a stamp. Their approach focuses on aesthetic presentation and weekly frequency.

History By Mail delivers one replica and one context page each month. Themes rotate every four months and explore historical events through multiple primary sources. Additional non-recurring collections include U.S. Holidays, National Parks, Historic Cartoons, World War II Cartoons and Posters, and other specialty series.

Letterjoy provides weekly letters and also offers theme-specific collections.

History By Mail emphasizes authenticity, education, and primary source analysis. Subscribers receive exacting reproductions of original documents that are selected for their historical significance. Many items come from collections that are not widely circulated or commonly reproduced.

Letterjoy focuses on a narrative letter experience and frequent contact through weekly mailings.

History By Mail was founded to make primary sources more accessible. The mission is to support history education through faithful replicas that encourage curiosity and informed discussion. Each document is a direct link to the past and is presented without editorial interpretation beyond factual context.

Letterjoy presents curated historical themes and offers articles that accompany each selection.