US Post Office-Anthony
a.k.a. Anthony United States Post Office
121 W. Steadman, Anthony, KS Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
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.
Kansas was named after the Kansa Native American tribe, which means "people of the south wind."
In 1873, Harper County was officially established, named after the governor of Kansas at the time, Marion Harper. The region quickly became an important hub for trade and agriculture, thanks to its prime location along the Chisholm Trail. Cattle drives into Texas and neighboring states brought prosperity to the area, attracting more settlers to the growing communities within the county.
The late 19th century saw the arrival of railroads, which further boosted Harper County's economic development. The construction of the Santa Fe Railroad in the 1880s created new opportunities for trade and transportation, allowing goods and people to easily flow in and out of the county. This led to the establishment of additional towns, such as Anthony and Harper, which continued to thrive as agricultural centers.
Throughout the 20th century, Harper County faced its share of challenges, including the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. However, the resilient spirit of the residents allowed them to overcome these difficulties and adapt to changing circumstances. Today, Harper County remains an important agricultural area, with farming and ranching still playing a vital role in the local economy. The county also offers various recreational opportunities, such as Lake Harper and the Flinthills Nature Trail, attracting visitors and contributing to its continued growth and prosperity.
Harper County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harper County, Kansas.
- 1803: The area that would become Harper County is acquired as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
- 1867: The Medicine Lodge Treaty is signed, allowing settlement in the area.
- 1873: Harper County is officially organized.
- 1887: The railroad reaches Harper County, enhancing transportation and economic opportunities.
- 1900s: Agriculture becomes the primary industry, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in the county's economy.
- 1920s: Oil is discovered in Harper County, leading to a boom in the oil industry and economic growth.
- 1930s: The Dust Bowl devastates the area, causing agricultural hardships and population declines.
- 1960s: Lake City Army Ammunition Plant is established, providing employment opportunities in the county.
- Today: Harper County continues to be a center for agriculture, oil production, and the manufacturing industry.