National Register Listing

Rogers Post Office Building

a.k.a. 1984

120 W. Poplar St., Rogers, AR
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
  A brief timeline of the history of the United States Postal Service (USPS)

  • 1775: The Second Continental Congress establishes the Constitutional Post to provide postal services in the thirteen American colonies. Benjamin Franklin is appointed as the first Postmaster General.

  • 1792: The Postal Service Act is passed, officially establishing the United States Postal Service as a federal agency. It sets the foundation for the organization and regulation of postal operations.

  • 1847: The introduction of prepaid adhesive postage stamps revolutionizes mail delivery, simplifying the process and promoting efficiency.

  • 1860: The Pony Express, a fast mail delivery service, is launched to transport mail between the eastern and western regions of the United States. It becomes famous for its daring riders and swift delivery.

  • 1863: Free city delivery is introduced, allowing mail to be delivered directly to urban households and businesses rather than being picked up from local post offices.

  • 1864: The Postal Money Order system is established, providing a secure way for people to send money through the mail.

  • 1896: Rural Free Delivery (RFD) is implemented, bringing mail delivery to rural areas for the first time. This service significantly improves communication and connects rural communities to the rest of the country.

  • 1971: The United States Postal Service is reorganized as an independent agency within the federal government, operating as the USPS. It is no longer directly controlled by the Postmaster General.

  • 1974: The USPS introduces the ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) Code system, which assigns unique codes to geographic areas to improve mail sorting and delivery efficiency.

  • 1997: The USPS launches its website, usps.com, providing online access to postal services, tracking, and information.

  • 2001: Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the USPS faces security challenges and undergoes significant changes to enhance mail screening and protection.

  • 2013: The USPS announces the end of Saturday mail delivery for regular letters and reduces delivery to five days a week.

  • Present: The USPS continues to be a vital service, handling billions of pieces of mail annually and adapting to changes in technology, communication, and the shipping industry. It plays a crucial role in connecting people, facilitating commerce, and serving as a backbone of the American communication infrastructure.

This timeline provides an overview of key milestones in the history of the USPS, which has played a crucial role in facilitating communication and connecting communities throughout the United States for over two centuries.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture post office
The Battle of Helena, which took place in Helena, Arkansas, in July 1863, was one of the largest Civil War battles fought in the state. Union forces were able to repel a Confederate attack, which helped secure control of the Mississippi River for the Union.
Arkansas random facts
Benton County, located in the northwestern part of Arkansas, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Native American tribes, including the Osage, Caddo, and Quapaw, inhabited the area long before European settlers arrived. The first known European exploration of the region was conducted by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, followed by French explorers in the 17th century. However, it was not until the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 that the area officially became part of the United States.

The first permanent settlements in Benton County were established in the early 19th century. The county was officially formed on September 30, 1836, with the town of Bentonville chosen as its county seat. The county was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a prominent U.S. senator from Missouri. Agriculture played a significant role in the early economy of Benton County, with cotton and corn being the primary crops. The development of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economic growth, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people across the region.

During the Civil War, Benton County was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, resulting in several skirmishes and battles taking place within its borders. Notably, the Battle of Pea Ridge in March 1862 was one of the most significant battles of the war in the region. After the war ended, Benton County began to rebuild and experienced a period of industrial growth. The lumber and mining industries thrived, and new businesses and educational institutions emerged.

In the 20th century, Benton County saw significant development and modernization. The construction of Beaver Dam on the White River led to the creation of Beaver Lake, which has become a popular recreational area. The county's economy diversified, with the rise of poultry farming, manufacturing, and the retail industry. Today, Benton County is one of the fastest-growing regions in Arkansas, with a diverse and dynamic economy, a thriving cultural scene, and a rich historical heritage that continues to shape its growth and identity.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Benton County, Arkansas.

  • 1836 - Benton County established
  • 1838 - First post office opened in Benton County
  • 1846 - County seat established in Bentonville
  • 1861 - Civil War begins, Benton County largely supports the Confederacy
  • 1867 - Bentonville becomes the permanent county seat
  • 1872 - University of Arkansas established in Fayetteville
  • 1903 - First automobile arrives in Benton County
  • 1941 - United States enters World War II, Benton County contributes to the war effort
  • 1998 - Walmart opens its first Supercenter in Bentonville
  • 2010 - Population of Benton County exceeds 200,000