Campbell Post Office-Kuykendall General Store
a.k.a. SE0325
Co. Rd. 73 NW of Oxley, Oxley, AR Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
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.
In the early 19th century, settlers began to establish themselves in the area, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county was officially formed in 1838 and was named after Richard Searcy, a prominent Arkansan who served as a judge. During this time, agriculture, primarily centered around subsistence farming and cash crops like cotton, became the backbone of the county's economy.
Searcy County played a significant role in the Civil War, with many residents serving in both Union and Confederate armies. The region's rugged terrain and remote location made it an ideal hiding spot for both guerrilla fighters and deserters, leading to increased violence and lawlessness. After the war, the county embarked on a path of recovery, focusing on rebuilding infrastructure and revitalizing the agricultural industry.
In the 20th century, Searcy County experienced both economic growth and decline. The timber industry became essential during this period, with the county's abundant forests providing much-needed jobs and resources. However, by the 1970s, the decline in logging and industrial manufacturing led to an economic downturn that the county still faces today. Despite these challenges, Searcy County remains a close-knit and resilient community, proud of its vibrant history and natural beauty.
Searcy County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Searcy County, Arkansas.
- 1838: Searcy County is established as a county in the state of Arkansas.
- 1852: The town of Marshall is founded, becoming the county seat of Searcy County.
- 1879: The first courthouse in Searcy County is built in Marshall.
- 1892: The Kansas City, Pittsburg and Gulf Railroad reaches Searcy County, providing transportation and economic opportunities.
- 1902: The first bank in Searcy County, the Bank of Marshall, is established.
- 1930s: Searcy County is heavily affected by the Great Depression, with many residents struggling financially.
- 1940s-1950s: Searcy County experiences a decline in population due to economic hardships and opportunities elsewhere.
- 1960s: The construction of Greers Ferry Dam on the Little Red River brings economic activity and recreation to Searcy County.
- 1980s: The tourism industry begins to grow in Searcy County, attracting visitors to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
- 2007: The Searcy County Museum is established in Marshall, showcasing the county's history and heritage.