Historical Marker

First Franklin Post Office

Historical marker location:
475 S River St, Franklin, Ohio
( Marker is on South River Street (Ohio Route 123) just north of West 5th Street, on the right when traveling south.)

1805-1812. John N.C. Schenk
First postmaster 1805 - 1829

  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 Ohio River, which forms the state's southern border, played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by African American slaves to escape to freedom in the North before the Civil War.
Ohio random facts
Warren County, Ohio, has a rich and vibrant history that stretches back for centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Shawnee, and Miami peoples. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.

In 1803, Warren County was officially established and named after General Joseph Warren, a hero of the American Revolution. The county quickly developed into an agricultural hub, with crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco being major economic drivers. The nearby Little Miami River also played a crucial role in the region's growth, serving as a transportation route for goods and supplies.

The county's strategic location also made it an important stop on the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century. Many abolitionists utilized Warren County as a safe haven for escaped slaves, with several communities actively aiding in their journey towards freedom.

As the 20th century progressed, Warren County's agricultural background began to shift towards a more diverse economy. The arrival of the Miami Valley Gaming Casino in 2013 brought a boost to the local economy and tourism industry. Today, the county boasts a mix of rural charm and modern amenities, with a wide range of recreational activities and cultural attractions for visitors and residents alike.

In conclusion, Warren County, Ohio, has a history rooted in agricultural and economic development, with a significant role in the Underground Railroad movement. Over the years, it has transformed into a diverse and thriving community that preserves its heritage while embracing progress.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Warren County, Ohio.

  • 1803 - Warren County is established
  • 1804 - Lebanon becomes the county seat
  • 1834 - The Miami and Erie Canal reaches Lebanon
  • 1863 - The Great Western Railroad is completed through the county
  • 1929 - The Warren County Historical Society is founded
  • 1941 - Construction begins on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base
  • 1954 - Kings Island amusement park opens in Mason
  • 1968 - Warren County Courthouse is placed on the National Register of Historic Places
  • 1995 - The Ohio Renaissance Festival begins in Harveysburg