US Post Office-Oxford
a.k.a. Oxford Post Office
S. Washington Ave., Oxford, NY Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
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 1777, the Battle of Saratoga took place in upstate New York and is considered a turning point in the American Revolution. It was the first major American victory and led to France recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation and entering the war as an ally.
In 1791, Chenango County was officially formed when it split off from Herkimer County. The county was named after the Chenango River, which flows through the area. The first settlement in the county was made in 1784 by a group of pioneers led by Colonel William Butler and Lieutenant Colonel John Lincklaen, who saw the area's potential for agriculture and trade.
During the 19th century, Chenango County experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The construction of the Chenango Canal in the 1830s played a significant role in boosting the local economy by facilitating trade and transportation. The county became known for its agricultural production, particularly in areas such as dairy farming and fruit cultivation.
In the late 1800s, Chenango County saw its industrial sector flourish, with the establishment of manufacturing industries such as textiles, shoes, and furniture. Towns like Norwich and Greene became centers of industry and commerce. The county also saw advancements in education, with the founding of Colgate University in Hamilton in 1817 and the establishment of other educational institutions throughout the area.
Today, Chenango County retains its agricultural heritage while embracing modern industries such as healthcare, education, and tourism. The county offers a blend of rural charm and historical significance, with numerous landmarks and cultural attractions that celebrate its past. From the Chenango County Historical Society to the annual Chenango County Fair, the region continues to honor its history while looking towards the future.
Chenango County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Chenango County, New York.
- 1788 - Chenango County is established by New York State legislation.
- 1791 - The village of Oxford is founded.
- 1795 - Norwich is established as the county seat.
- 1806 - The first courthouse is built in Norwich.
- 1812 - Chenango Canal is completed, connecting the county to the Erie Canal.
- 1847 - The Chenango County Agricultural Society is formed.
- 1853 - The Utica, Chenango, and Susquehanna Valley Railroad opens.
- 1870 - The Chenango County Fair is first held.
- 1908 - Chenango County Historical Society is founded.
- 1935 - Chenango Valley State Park is established.
- 1975 - Earlville Opera House is placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 1997 - The Chenango County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 2010 - Sherburne Historic District is added to the National Register of Historic Places.