Historical Marker

First Post Office of Rocky Mount

Historical marker location:
Rocky Mount, North Carolina
( Marker can be reached from Battlepark Lane east of Falls Road (State Highway 43), on the right when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 1941

  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 state's largest city, Charlotte, was named after Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife of King George III of England.
North Carolina random facts
Nash County, located in North Carolina, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1777. Named after General Francis Nash, a hero of the American Revolution, the county was originally part of Edgecombe County before being carved out as its own entity. The region was once inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tuscarora and Saponi before European settlers began to arrive.

During the early years of its settlement, Nash County relied heavily on agriculture, with tobacco being the primary cash crop. The county's economy prospered as plantations and farms grew, and the area became known for its production of tobacco, cotton, and other crops. The construction of transportation infrastructure in the form of railroads and highways played a pivotal role in connecting Nash County to other parts of the state and facilitated economic growth.

In 1907, the town of Rocky Mount was established by the merger of two neighboring towns, Battleboro and Rocky Mount. This merger led to the creation of a new industry hub in Nash County, attracting businesses and increasing job opportunities. The growth of Rocky Mount brought about an era of urbanization and development as it became an important center for trade and commerce in the region.

In the 20th century, Nash County underwent significant changes in its economy and demographics. Agriculture remained an important sector, but industries such as manufacturing and healthcare began to play a larger role. Today, Nash County continues to thrive, offering a mix of rural charm and urban amenities, with a diverse economy and a vibrant community that celebrates its historical roots.

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

  • 1777: Nash County was formed from Edgecombe County.
  • 1780s: The first settlement in Nash County, called Rocky Mount, was established.
  • 1840: The town of Nashville was incorporated, becoming the county seat.
  • 1848: The Wilmington and Weldon Railroad reached Nash County, spurring economic growth.
  • 1861-1865: Nash County residents fought in the American Civil War, with some joining the Confederate Army.
  • 1880s: The tobacco industry gained prominence, with numerous tobacco warehouses established in Nash County.
  • 1907: The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad was completed, connecting Nash County to other parts of North Carolina.
  • early 20th century: Agriculture remained the mainstay of Nash County's economy, with cotton becoming a major crop.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression brought economic hardship to Nash County, but programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps provided employment.
  • late 20th century: Industrial development and the growth of healthcare and education sectors contributed to Nash County's economy.