Historical Marker

United States Post Office and Court House

Historical marker location:
200 N 4th St, Steubenville, Ohio
( Marker is on North 4th Street just north of Washington Street (Ohio Route 43/822), on the right when traveling north.)

  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.

architecture houses residential buildings
Ohio has a rich tradition of aviation history, with several famous aviators hailing from the state. In addition to the Wright brothers, who invented the airplane, other notable Ohio aviators include Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, and Jerrie Mock, the first woman to fly solo around the world.
Ohio random facts
Jefferson County, OH, located in the eastern portion of the state, has a rich and storied history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mingo and Delaware tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, attracted to the region's fertile land and abundant natural resources.

In the early 19th century, Jefferson County experienced significant growth due to the expansion of the coal mining industry. The discovery of large coal deposits and the construction of the Ohio River and Erie Canal enhanced transportation and trade, leading to a rapid increase in population and economic development. Steubenville, the county seat, became a thriving center for industry and commerce during this time.

Jefferson County played a significant role in the development of the steel industry in the United States. The presence of high-quality coal and iron deposits in the county made it an ideal location for steel production. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, numerous steel mills were established, attracting an influx of immigrants to the area. The steel industry was a major contributor to the county's prosperity, providing jobs and fueling economic growth.

Over time, Jefferson County faced economic challenges as the steel industry declined. The closure of the steel mills in the late 20th century led to job losses and a decline in population. However, the county has made efforts to diversify its economy and attract new industries. Today, Jefferson County is known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and recreational opportunities, attracting tourists and providing a range of outdoor activities to locals.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jefferson County, Ohio.

  • 1786: Jefferson County is established by the Northwest Ordinance
  • 1797: Steubenville, the county seat, is founded
  • 1803: Ohio becomes a state
  • 1812: Jefferson County's population reaches 1,431
  • 1817: The Steubenville and Indiana Railroad is incorporated
  • 1825: The Ohio and Pennsylvania Canal opens in Jefferson County
  • 1861-1865: Jefferson County contributes soldiers to the Union Army during the Civil War
  • 1877: The Steubenville Gas Company is founded
  • 1902: The Carnegie Library of Steubenville is built
  • 1937: The Steubenville Steel Company is formed
  • 1956: Jefferson County's population peaks at 93,929
  • 1990: The Jefferson County Historical Association is founded