National Register Listing

United States Post Office

a.k.a. United States Federal Office Building

212 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2010.
  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.

architecture post office
Minnesota is home to the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior. It covers over 31,000 square miles and contains 10% of the world's fresh surface water.
Minnesota random facts
Hennepin County, located in the state of Minnesota, has a rich history that stretches back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota Sioux Native American tribes, who thrived along the banks of the Mississippi River. European exploration and settlement began in the 17th century, when French fur traders arrived in search of valuable pelts. In the late 18th century, the region came under American control following the Louisiana Purchase, and the United States established Fort Snelling in 1820 to control the fur trade and maintain relations with the Native Americans.

The 19th century brought significant changes to Hennepin County, largely driven by industrialization and the growth of Minneapolis, its largest city. The construction of the Mississippi River locks in the 1860s allowed for easier navigation and trade, leading to a boom in lumber and flour milling industries. Minneapolis became known as the "Flour Milling Capital of the World" and attracted thousands of immigrants seeking work and opportunities. With its thriving industry, the city expanded rapidly, and Hennepin County became a center of commerce and culture.

The early 20th century brought further growth and development to Hennepin County. The region continued to prosper, with advancements in transportation, such as the construction of highways and railroads. The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, began to flourish as major metropolitan areas, attracting businesses, immigrants, and diverse communities. Hennepin County played a significant role during World War II, contributing to the war effort through manufacturing and defense industries.

In recent decades, Hennepin County has experienced continued growth and economic diversification. Minneapolis has evolved into a thriving hub for various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. The county has also emphasized sustainable development and environmental conservation, focusing on initiatives like green spaces, bike lanes, and public transportation. Today, Hennepin County is a vibrant, diverse community that blends its rich history with modern advancements, offering residents and visitors a wide range of opportunities and attractions.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Hennepin County, Minnesota.

  • 1852: Hennepin County is established by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature.
  • 1855: The city of Minneapolis is incorporated within Hennepin County.
  • 1860: Hennepin County becomes the most populous county in Minnesota.
  • 1878: The Minneapolis City Hall is completed, becoming a notable landmark in Hennepin County.
  • 1883: The Hennepin County Library is founded.
  • 1893: Lake Minnetonka becomes a popular recreational destination in Hennepin County.
  • 1905: The Minnesota State Fairgrounds move from Ramsey County to Hennepin County.
  • 1926: The first major highway, the Theodore Wirth Parkway, is completed in Hennepin County.
  • 1957: The Interstate Highway 35W bridge is constructed, connecting Hennepin County with neighboring counties.
  • 1971: The Hennepin County Government Center is completed, housing various county administrative offices.
  • 2008: Hennepin County becomes the 34th most populous county in the United States.