Pocahontas Post Office
a.k.a. RA0018
109 Van Bibber St., Pocahontas, AR Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
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.
The Crater of Diamonds State Park, located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is the only diamond-producing site in the world that is open to the public. Visitors to the park can search for diamonds and other gems in the park's 37.5-acre diamond field.
In 1815, the United States government acquired the area as part of the Louisiana Purchase, leading to an influx of settlers. Randolph County was officially established on October 29, 1835, named after John Randolph of Virginia, a prominent politician during that time. The county's growth was primarily driven by agriculture, with cotton becoming a dominant crop.
During the Civil War, Randolph County was the site of several significant events. It was occupied by both Confederate and Union forces at different times, resulting in clashes and skirmishes. The Battle of Pitman's Ferry in 1864, for example, saw a Union victory as they successfully defended against Confederate attacks.
After the war, Randolph County continued to develop economically. The arrival of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway in the late 19th century enhanced transportation and stimulated trade in the area. With the decline of cotton production, farmers diversified into other crops such as soybeans and corn. The establishment of small industries, particularly in the timber and logging sector, also contributed to the county's growth.
Today, Randolph County is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Its historical sites, including the Randolph County Courthouse and Davidsonville Historic State Park, are popular attractions for visitors. The county's rich heritage, shaped by Native American influences and its role in the Civil War, is evident in its diverse cultural landscape.
Randolph County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Randolph County, Arkansas.
- 1800s: Native American tribes, including the Osage and Quapaw, inhabit the area that will become Randolph County.
- 1835: The Treaty of Washington is signed, removing Native Americans from the region and opening it up for settlement.
- 1836: Randolph County is established on October 29th, becoming the 32nd county of the Arkansas Territory.
- 1861-1865: Randolph County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War, experiencing battles, raids, and occupation by both Union and Confederate forces.
- Late 1800s: The timber industry booms in Randolph County, leading to significant economic growth and population increase.
- 1904: The town of Pocahontas becomes the county seat of Randolph County.
- Early 1900s: Agriculture becomes the primary industry in the county, with cotton, corn, soybeans, and livestock being major commodities.
- 1930s: The Great Depression deeply affects Randolph County, leading to high unemployment rates and economic hardship.
- 1960s: The construction of the Eleven Point River Dam brings new recreational opportunities to Randolph County.
- 1980s-1990s: The county experiences economic diversification, with the growth of industries such as manufacturing and healthcare.
- Present: Randolph County continues to be known for its beautiful natural landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and strong sense of community.