National Register Listing

Martinez Downtown Post Office

a.k.a. Post Office

815 Court St., Martinez, CA
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture; Art

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2012.
  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.

politics government architecture art post office
The California Gold Rush of 1849 brought a huge influx of people to the state. In just two years, the population of San Francisco grew from 1,000 to 25,000. However, only a small percentage of gold-seekers actually struck it rich, and many ended up in debt or poverty.
California random facts
Contra Costa County, located in Northern California, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, such as the Miwok and Ohlone people, who thrived off the region's natural resources and lived in harmony with the land. The arrival of Spanish explorers and missionaries in the 18th century marked a significant shift in the region's history.

In 1772, the Spanish established the first European settlement in the area, known as Mission San Francisco de Asís (also called Mission Dolores), which was part of the larger Alta California mission system. The mission's purpose was to convert the indigenous people to Christianity and ensure Spanish control over the region. During this period, Spanish settlers also established ranchos, large land grants that became the foundation of the region's agricultural economy.

The 19th century brought significant changes to Contra Costa County. With the Mexican War of Independence in 1821, Spain's influence in the area waned, and Mexico gained control. During this time, Mexican rancheros maintained control over their land, but American settlers began to arrive in increasing numbers, lured by the promise of fertile land and economic opportunities.

The discovery of gold in nearby Coloma in 1848 triggered the California Gold Rush, drawing countless fortune seekers to the region. This influx of people led to the rapid growth of towns and settlements in Contra Costa County, as well as the construction of transportation infrastructure like railroads and canals. Agriculture, particularly wheat and fruit orchards, grew in prominence, and the region became known for its agricultural output.

In 1850, California officially became a state, and Contra Costa County was established as one of the original 27 counties. Over the years, the county continued to develop and urbanize, with industrialization bringing new opportunities and challenges. Today, Contra Costa County is a thriving and diverse region known for its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant communities.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Contra Costa County, California.

  • 1772: Spanish explorers first arrive in the area of Contra Costa County.
  • 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain and the land becomes part of Mexico.
  • 1849: Contra Costa County is formed as one of California's original 27 counties.
  • 1850: Martinez becomes the first county seat.
  • 1855: The county seat is moved to San Ramon.
  • 1857: The county seat is moved again, this time to Martinez permanently.
  • 1868: The Central Pacific Railroad arrives in the county, enhancing transportation and growth.
  • 1928: Construction of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge begins, connecting Contra Costa County to San Francisco.
  • 1941: The Concord Naval Weapons Station is established, playing a significant role in World War II and the Cold War.
  • 1972: BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) extends into Contra Costa County, providing a new mode of transportation.
  • 1991: The devastating Oakland Hills Fire impacts parts of Contra Costa County.
  • 2002: Contra Costa County celebrates its 150th anniversary.