Mapleton honours Buckley family as postal service moves to IGA

by Nita C Lester

After 18 years of dedicated service, the Buckley family has officially closed the red door of the Mapleton post office, marking the end of an era for the local community.

For nearly two decades, the Buckleys have been much more than postmasters. They have been friendly faces behind the counter, generous supporters of local causes, and gracious neighbours who treated every customer like family. From helping elderly residents with parcels to supporting school fundraisers and community events, their commitment extended far beyond stamps and mail.

‘It’s hard to imagine the village without the Buckleys at the post office,’ Peter Gamgee shared. ‘They’ve been part of our daily lives for 18 years. They’ve always gone above and beyond.’

In recognition of their service and the lasting impact they’ve made, community members have generously donated funds to purchase a commemorative plaque in the Buckley family’s honour. The plaque will be installed in the village ensuring their legacy remains a visible and permanent part of village life. Additionally, a historical plaque will be located outside the ‘old’ post office location marking the long postal service since the 1940s.

As an immediate thank you, the community raised funds to gift Elizabeth, David, Yvonne and family a number of vouchers to local businesses – a surprise gift to say we are thinking of them during this transition.

The postal service will now continue at the IGA, operated by the Anderson family — another family well known for their strong community spirit and ongoing support of local initiatives. In what many are calling a seamless and heartfelt transition, the move represents not just a change of location, but a continuation of family values at the heart of the village.

‘It feels fitting that the service is passing from one community-minded family to another,’ Nita C Lester commented. ‘We’re incredibly grateful to the Buckleys for everything they’ve done, and we’re thrilled to see the Andersons carrying it forward.’

While the closing of the original post office brings a sense of nostalgia, there is also optimism. Thanks to the dedication of both families and the unwavering support of residents, the village postal service remains in caring hands.

From one family to another, and from one chapter to the next, the community celebrates not just a history of service … but its continuation.

The Buckley family on their last day at the Post Office. Pic Nita C Lester. 

Elizabeth Buckley with vouchers from the community. Pic Nita C Lester.

The Anderson family is ready to take on the Post Office and received training from the postal employee on the far right.