National Register Listing

US Post Office-Charleroi

a.k.a. John K. Tener Library

638 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi, PA
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
  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 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.

politics government architecture post office
The first U.S. Navy submarine, the USS Holland, was built in Philadelphia in 1900.
Pennsylvania random facts
Washington County, Pennsylvania has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1781. Located in the southwestern part of the state, it was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Delaware, before European settlers arrived.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Washington County played a significant role in the development of the region. The Battle of Jumonville Glen, a precursor to the French and Indian War, took place in present-day Fayette County, just south of Washington County. This conflict marked a pivotal moment in the struggle between the French and British for control over the Ohio River Valley.

With the onset of the American Industrial Revolution, Washington County became an important hub for coal mining, natural gas, and oil production in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The county's natural resources fueled economic growth and attracted immigrants seeking employment opportunities. Many European immigrants, particularly from Scotland and Eastern Europe, settled in Washington County during this time and contributed to the region's cultural diversity.

Washington County also played a significant role in the Whiskey Rebellion of 1791. The rebellion was a response to an excise tax imposed by the newly formed federal government on whiskey production. The area had a high concentration of distillers, and many farmers relied on whiskey as a form of currency. The rebellion was eventually suppressed by federal forces, but it highlighted the challenges faced by the young United States in enforcing federal laws in rural areas.

Today, Washington County continues to be an important center for energy production and agriculture. The region is also home to educational institutions like Washington & Jefferson College and scenic natural attractions such as the Ohiopyle State Park. With its rich history and diverse industries, Washington County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Pennsylvania's heritage.

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

  • 1781 - Washington County is established on March 28, 1781, as one of the original three counties of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
  • 1791 - The Whiskey Rebellion, a violent protest against the federal excise tax on whiskey, occurs in Washington County.
  • 1802 - Construction begins on the National Road, which passes through Washington County, becoming an important transportation route.
  • 1861-1865 - During the American Civil War, Washington County actively participates, and many soldiers from the area fight in various battles.
  • 1901 - The coal mining industry becomes a significant economic driver in Washington County, leading to rapid growth and development.
  • 1928 - The Washington County Courthouse, an iconic neoclassical structure, is completed and becomes a recognized landmark.
  • 1954 - The construction of the Washington County Airport begins, providing improved air transport options for the region.
  • 1968 - Washington County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the history of the area.
  • 1997 - The Meadows Racetrack and Casino opens in Washington County, contributing to the local economy and entertainment scene.
  • 2011 - The Marcellus Shale natural gas industry boom brings significant economic changes to Washington County.