In the 60s, T.S.K. Johansson wrote a series in Bee World called: FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN HISTORY. 

here's an excerpt

it is interesting to note that as long ago as 1873 A. I. Root suggested that
beekeepers provide eggs and larvae from superior stock by sending them
through the mails; he reported that Murphy and Marvin had stated in the
National Bee Journal that eggs can be sent safely by post. Root offered
to 'advertise gratis the names of all responsible persons who will undertake
to aid our friends, as follows: On the receipt of 25c. we will mail to any
address a piece of comb containing freshly laid eggs from an imported
Italian queen'. Small larvae for queen rearing were listed in his 1875
price list.

A paper box which could be opened for inspection was considered
more suitable than a wooden one and a tin box was stipulated if the
shipment was to be carried on horse-back.

T.S.K. Johansson (1964) For those Interested in History
Bee World, 45:2, 86-86

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