Historical Marker

United States Post Office

Historical marker location:
140 4th Ave W, Hendersonville, North Carolina
( Marker is at the intersection of 4th Avenue West and North Church Street, on the right when traveling east on 4th Avenue West.)

1914

  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 city of Durham, North Carolina, is home to the world-renowned Duke University and Duke Medical Center, as well as several other prestigious colleges and universities.
North Carolina random facts
Henderson County, located in the western part of North Carolina, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee Nation, who revered the area for its fertile land and abundant natural resources.

European settlement in the area began in the late 18th century, when pioneers began to establish homesteads and farms. The county was officially formed in 1838 and named after Supreme Court Chief Justice Leonard Henderson. Hendersonville, the county seat, quickly became a center for trade and commerce, thanks to its strategic location along major transportation routes.

In the mid-19th century, the arrival of the railroad spurred economic growth in Henderson County, particularly in the agriculture industry. The county embraced apple cultivation and soon became known as the "Apple Capital of North Carolina." The apples grown in Henderson County were highly sought after and helped solidify the region's reputation as a major agricultural hub.

Over the years, Henderson County has continued to evolve and thrive. In the early 20th century, the county saw the establishment of several educational institutions, including Blue Ridge Community College and Hendersonville High School. Today, Henderson County's economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, tourism, and agriculture.

Throughout its history, Henderson County has remained a place of natural beauty and cultural significance. Its stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and vibrant community make it a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Henderson County, North Carolina.

  • 1838 - Henderson County is established.
  • 1841 - The county seat is established in Hendersonville.
  • 1861-1865 - Henderson County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1895 - The Asheville and Spartanburg Railroad is completed, connecting Henderson County to the rail network.
  • 1901 - The Pisgah National Forest is established, protecting large areas of land in Henderson County.
  • 1905 - The Henderson County Courthouse is built.
  • 1925 - The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is established.
  • 1934 - Construction begins on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which intersects Henderson County.
  • 1961 - The Henderson County Public Library is established.
  • 1992 - The Dupont State Forest is established, providing recreational opportunities.