National Register Listing

Jackson Post Office

a.k.a. Br-J-4

Jct. of Hawk and Broadway, Jackson, KY
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Politics/government; Communications

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
  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.

post office
The Kentucky State Capitol building in Frankfort, Kentucky, is the only state capitol in the United States that has a working railroad track running directly underneath it.
Kentucky random facts
Breathitt County, located in eastern Kentucky, has a rich and storied history that dates back to its formation in 1839. The area that now comprises the county was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee. However, the county's history is largely shaped by the arrival of European settlers in the early 19th century. The first permanent European settlement was established in 1809 by a man named George Breathitt, after whom the county is named.

In the early years, Breathitt County's economy relied heavily on agriculture and natural resources. Timber, coal, and clay were abundant in the region, and many families made a living through farming and mining. With the advent of the railroad in the late 19th century, the county saw increased economic growth and development. The railroad allowed for easier transportation of goods and played a significant role in the expansion of the county's coal industry.

However, Breathitt County's history also includes tumultuous times. The county became known as a hotspot for feuds, with violence and bloodshed becoming a common occurrence. One of the most notable feuds was the "Breathitt War" in the late 19th century, which lasted for several years and resulted in numerous casualties. These feuds left a lasting impact on the county's reputation and played a role in shaping its identity.

Throughout the 20th century, Breathitt County faced various challenges, including economic downturns, social issues, and natural disasters. Despite these hardships, the county has continued to evolve and adapt. Today, Breathitt County is home to a resilient community that remains proud of its heritage, with a diverse economy including agriculture, tourism, and small industries. The county is also known for its natural beauty, with the Appalachian Mountains and Daniel Boone National Forest providing stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Breathitt County, Kentucky.

  • 1799: Breathitt County, Kentucky is established and named after Governor John Breathitt.
  • Early 1800s: The area attracts settlers primarily due to its fertile land and natural resources.
  • 1839: The county seat is established in the town of Jackson.
  • 1843-1850s: The region experiences a population boom as more settlers arrive, leading to the creation of new towns and communities.
  • 1861-1865: Breathitt County, like many other parts of Kentucky, is torn apart by the American Civil War. The county is divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, leading to conflicts and skirmishes.
  • Late 1800s-Early 1900s: The economy of Breathitt County revolves around agriculture, timber, and coal mining, attracting investors and industrial development.
  • 1920s: The county becomes known for its moonshine production during the Prohibition era.
  • 1937: The infamous "Battle of Booger Branch" occurs, a violent feud between the Baker and Howard families that gains national attention for the county's lawlessness.
  • 1950s-1960s: Economic decline hits the county as timber and coal industries face challenges, leading to a decline in population and job opportunities.
  • Presently, Breathitt County, KY faces ongoing challenges in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic diversification.