Old Post Office
a.k.a. United States Government Building
NE corner of Broadway and State St., Albany, NY Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
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.
In 1945, the United Nations was established in New York City, and its headquarters is located on a 17-acre site on the east side of Manhattan overlooking the East River.
In 1664, the English took control of the region and renamed it Albany, after the Duke of Albany, who would later become King James II. Albany became a significant center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along the Hudson River. The city's growth was further stimulated by the establishment of Fort Orange, a trading post that served as a vital link between the Dutch and Native Americans.
Throughout the 18th century, Albany County played a crucial role in the American Revolution. The city became a center of political activity, and in 1754, it hosted the Albany Congress, where representatives from several colonies gathered to discuss a unified response to the French threat. Albany was also a key transportation hub during the war, as troops and supplies moved along the Hudson River.
During the early 19th century, Albany County experienced significant industrial and economic development. The completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 connected Albany to the Great Lakes, allowing for increased trade and the growth of manufacturing industries. The city also became the capital of New York State in 1797, solidifying its position as a political and administrative center.
Today, Albany County continues to thrive as the heart of New York's Capital Region. It is known for its diverse culture, rich historical landmarks, and educational institutions such as the University at Albany. The county reflects a blend of its early Dutch and English colonial roots with modern urbanization, making it a fascinating destination with a deep historical legacy.
Albany County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Albany County, New York.
- 1683 - Albany County is officially established by the Province of New York.
- 1777 - Albany County becomes a strategic location during the American Revolutionary War.
- 1791 - The city of Albany is incorporated and becomes the county seat.
- 1800s - Albany County experiences rapid industrialization and becomes a center for trade and transportation.
- 1812 - The War of 1812 brings increased military activity to the county.
- 1825 - Erie Canal opens, connecting Albany County to the Great Lakes and boosting the local economy.
- 1846 - Albany County is divided, creating the separate county of Rensselaer.
- 1883 - The State Capitol building in Albany is completed.
- 1936 - The Albany County Airport (now Albany International Airport) opens.
- 1972 - The Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza is completed in Albany.
- 1998 - Albany County celebrates its 315th anniversary.