Historical Marker

Deanwood Post Office

Historical marker location:
Marion, Kentucky
( 9907 KY-120, Marion, KY)

First established in 1873 as Iron Hill Post Office, located 1/2 mile west of present location. First postmaster James W. Woolf. Joseph M. Dean, appointed postmaster in 1874 and again in 1881, relocated post office to building in front of his home. Joseph N. Dean, son of Joseph M. Dean, moved post office into a building on present site; appointed postmaster in 1900.

(Reverse) Joseph N. Dean replaced the building with the existing one in 1910 and installed new post office boxes, which are now on display at Crittenden County Bob Wheeler Museum in Marion. The official name was changed to Deanwood in 1914, and the community is still known as Deanwood. Presented by the Dean Family

  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.

Post Office
Kentucky is known as the "Bluegrass State" because of the bluegrass that grows in many of its pastures.
Kentucky random facts
Crittenden County, Kentucky, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1842. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Shawnee nations. European settlement began in the late 18th century, with early pioneers attracted to the fertile lands along the Ohio and Tradewater Rivers.

The county was named after John J. Crittenden, a prominent statesman from Kentucky who served as both Attorney General and Secretary of State under different U.S. presidents. It was officially established in 1842, carved out of neighboring Livingston County. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, played a significant role in the county's early economy.

During the Civil War, Crittenden County was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Ohio River and its abundant agricultural resources. The area was heavily divided, with some residents supporting the Union and others sympathetic to the Confederacy. The county experienced numerous skirmishes and raids throughout the war, causing significant disruptions and challenges for its inhabitants.

In the years following the Civil War, Crittenden County faced economic struggles as agriculture prices fluctuated and infrastructure development lagged behind neighboring regions. However, in the 20th century, the construction of dams along the Ohio River brought about economic growth, providing hydroelectric power and attracting industry to the area. Today, Crittenden County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture, while also embracing tourism and outdoor recreational activities along the river.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Crittenden County, Kentucky.

  • 1825: Crittenden County is officially established.
  • 1830: The county is named after John J. Crittenden, a senator from Kentucky.
  • 1843: The county seat is established in Marion, Kentucky.
  • 1850s: Coal mining becomes an important industry in Crittenden County.
  • 1861-1865: Crittenden County residents serve in the Civil War.
  • 1873: The Ohio River flood devastates the county.
  • 1936: The Smithland Lock and Dam is completed on the Ohio River.
  • 1966: The Kincaid State Fish and Wildlife Area is established.
  • 1973: Crittenden County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1982: The 10,000-acre Crittenden County State Natural Area is established.