Historical Marker

Old Sewickley Post Office

Historical marker location:
Sewickley, Pennsylvania
( Marker can be reached from the intersection of Broad Street and Bank Street, on the right when traveling north.)

Historic Landmark

  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.

Pennsylvania is home to the oldest gas station in America, which was built in 1909 in Pittsburgh.
Pennsylvania random facts
Allegheny County, located in western Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and Delaware, European settlers arrived in the area during the 18th century. The French and Indian War and the American Revolution played significant roles in shaping the early days of the county, with events like the Battle of Bushy Run and the Whiskey Rebellion taking place within its borders.

The county's development, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries, was heavily influenced by the rise of industry. With its abundant natural resources, including coal and iron ore, Allegheny County became a major center for steel production, earning the moniker "Steel City." The expansion of railroads and the construction of the Erie Canal further facilitated economic growth in the area.

Throughout its history, Allegheny County has been home to influential figures in politics, business, and culture. Pittsburgh, the county seat and largest city, has produced notable individuals such as Andrew Carnegie, who built a vast steel empire, and Rachel Carson, environmentalist and author of "Silent Spring." The region's thriving arts scene also includes the Carnegie Museums, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and the Pittsburgh Opera.

In recent decades, Allegheny County has undergone a transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a more diversified economy focused on healthcare, education, technology, and robotics. Although the decline of the steel industry caused significant challenges, the county has rebounded by embracing new industries and investing in urban revitalization efforts.

Today, Allegheny County remains a vibrant and culturally rich area, with a strong spirit of resilience and innovation. Its history continues to shape its present, as the county keeps evolving and adapting to the changing economic and social landscape.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1788 - Allegheny County is established on September 24.
  • 1794 - The "Whiskey Rebellion" protests occur in the county.
  • 1840 - The Pennsylvania Railroad arrives in Allegheny County, stimulating industrial development.
  • 1873 - The Great Railroad Strike takes place in the county.
  • 1889 - The Johnstown Flood affects parts of Allegheny County.
  • 1907 - The Pittsburgh Pirates, now known as the Pittsburgh Steelers, are founded in Allegheny County.
  • 1968 - Pittsburgh becomes the county seat of Allegheny County.
  • 1981 - The collapse of the Kinzua Bridge impacts the county's transportation infrastructure.
  • 1998 - The completion of the Pittsburgh International Airport's new terminal enhances air travel in the county.
  • 2018 - Allegheny County celebrates its 230th anniversary.