Kindred Spirit Mailbox on Sunset Beach in North Carolina was started by Frank Nesmith and a lady named Claudia. The story goes that he saw her struggling with a piece of drift wood and offered to help. A love affair started and lasted for a while.  And, that’s how it started, with them placing a post in the sand, adding a mailbox for people to hopefully find, write a note and free their hearts of any hurt or joy.

For decades and after thousands, upon thousands of notes, letters, messages, poems, drawings and heartfelt words, the mailbox still stands.  People from around the world come to leave messages.  It is a true spiritual experience.  Some people come to write about something happy or sad, joyous or for forgiveness. Whatever the reason or the message,  there is always a  release of feelings and emotions as the cool ocean breeze takes them to the kindred spirit.

Photo courtesy of Lynn Nesmith

On this episode of Travel With Annita Frank Nesmith’s daughter Lynn Nesmith, shares stories about her dad and the mailbox.  Her father, Frank passed away last year (2020) and she shares stories of his last time going to the mailbox and how the Kindred Spirit Mailbox has been a comfort to her.

Annie Breth and her husband met Frank while walking on the beach.  To their surprise they realized he was the man who started the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.  A long friendship was started and Annie is one of the volunteers who keeps the mailbox ready for those who want to come and leave their message.

Ann Bokelman co-founder of the Old Bridge Historical Society had come to Sunset Beach each year from the mid-1990’s until retiring there in 2007.  Today you will find her at the Old Bridge Museum where stories are shared and artifacts can be seen.  A stop at the bridge is part of your visit to the area.

The stories shared on this show are heartwarming, endearing and show the true spirit of the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.

For more information on visiting the area visit the following websites:

www.ncbrunswick.com
www.theoldbridge.org

For more information about the Brunswick Islands click here

For more information about places to stay when visiting the Brunswick Islands click here

Photos of the Kindred Spirit Mailbox experience

Frank’s way to visit the Kindred Mailbox – by bike.

Many, many notebooks have been filled with messages. Photo courtesy of NC Brunswick

In loving memory of Frank Nesmith – The Kindred Spirit.  Photo courtesy Lynn Nesmith

I had a chance to meet and chat with Frank. His daughter Lynn said this was one of his last trips to see the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.

Frank at the Kindred Spirit Mailbox – photo courtesy of Lynn Nesmith

My chance to experience the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.

The Kindred Spirit Mailbox, waiting for you to have your own experience. It is tucked in a spot overlooking the ocean, between sand dunes, taking our messages away on cool breezes.

Whatever is on your heart, happy, sad, joyful, regrets, apologies or love. Share it with the Kindred Spirit.

Pier at Sunset Beach – photo courtesy of NC Brunswick

Enjoy a day on the water kayaking

Photo of the old bridge. You can learn more about the old bridge at the Old Bridge Museum

Visit the lighthouse on Oak Island

Story photo courtesy of Lynn Nesmith

Thanks and gratitude

Annette Thompson

Deborah Stone

NC Brunswick

and Lynn Nesmith

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