Historical Marker

Grand Forks' First Post Office

Historical marker location:
2405 Belmont Rd, Grand Forks, North Dakota
( Marker is on Belmont Road.)
Marker installed: 2013

  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.

North Dakota is known for its extreme weather conditions, including frequent blizzards, tornadoes, and hailstorms. The state is also home to the coldest temperature ever recorded in the United States, which was -60 degrees Fahrenheit in 1936.
North Dakota random facts
Grand Forks County, North Dakota, has a rich and diverse history that spans over centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe people. European settlement began in the early 19th century, with fur traders and explorers making their way to the region.

In 1870, Grand Forks County was officially established as a county. The county's name is derived from the location at the junction of the Red and Red Lake Rivers, known as the "grand forks." The settlement of Grand Forks quickly grew in the late 19th century due to the expansion of the railroad and the opening of the University of North Dakota in 1883.

The early 20th century brought challenges to Grand Forks County, as it faced several devastating floods. The most notable was the Great Flood of 1997, which caused extensive damage to the city and resulted in the evacuation of thousands of residents. However, the community rallied together to rebuild and recover, showcasing the resilience and determination of its residents.

Today, Grand Forks County is a thriving community with a diversified economy. It is home to various industries, including agriculture, education, healthcare, and technology. The county continues to grow and develop, with a strong focus on preserving its heritage and fostering a vibrant cultural scene. From its Native American roots to its modern-day achievements, Grand Forks County stands as a testament to the strength and spirit of its people.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grand Forks County, North Dakota.

  • 1812-1825: Assiniboine and Dakota Native American tribes inhabited the area.
  • 1870: The Red River Valley was opened for settlement, leading to the establishment of Grand Forks County.
  • 1872: The City of Grand Forks was founded and became the county seat.
  • 1881: The University of North Dakota was established in Grand Forks.
  • 1927: The devastating Red River flood caused significant damage in the county.
  • 1948: The Grand Forks Air Force Base was established.
  • 1997: Grand Forks County, along with the city, experienced a second major flood, resulting in widespread destruction.