U.S. Post Office
a.k.a. Federal Building-U.S. Post Office (Downtown Station)
522 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
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 first documented European exploration of Arizona was in 1539: Spanish explorer Marcos de Niza became the first European to explore what is now Arizona in 1539. He claimed the area for Spain and named it "Arizona" after a Native American word meaning "silver-bearing."
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers led by Estevanico, also known as Esteban the Moor, ventured into the present-day Maricopa County area. This encounter marked the beginning of European exploration and influence in the region. However, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that significant American settlement began. The establishment of Fort McDowell in 1865 and the subsequent discovery of gold in nearby areas attracted settlers to the county.
With the completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s, Maricopa County experienced a surge in population growth and economic development. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a major industry. The county's fertile land and reliable water supply made it a favorable location for agricultural ventures.
Following World War II, Maricopa County experienced tremendous growth due to factors such as the availability of affordable land, a warm climate, and a booming economy. The county's largest city, Phoenix, became a thriving metropolis, attracting businesses and new residents. The establishment of Arizona State University in Tempe and the expansion of Luke Air Force Base further contributed to the county's growth.
Today, Maricopa County is home to more than four million residents, making it the most populous county in Arizona. It is known for its diverse economy, which includes industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and tourism. The county is also famous for its expansive outdoor recreation opportunities, with numerous parks, hiking trails, and beautiful desert landscapes.
Maricopa County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Maricopa County, Arizona.
- 1871 - Maricopa County is created from parts of Yavapai County and Pima County.
- 1878 - Phoenix becomes the official county seat of Maricopa County.
- 1881 - The first train arrives in Phoenix, connecting the city to the rest of the country.
- 1889 - Maricopa County Courthouse is built in Phoenix.
- 1911 - Roosevelt Dam is completed, providing a reliable water source for agriculture and growth in the county.
- 1941 - Luke Air Force Base is established, playing a significant role during World War II and beyond.
- 1960 - Maricopa County population surpasses half a million.
- 1980 - Maricopa County becomes the most populous county in Arizona.
- 1993 - Sheriff Joe Arpaio takes office, gaining national attention for his hardline stance on immigration and controversial practices.