Historical Marker

Cross Post Office

Historical marker location:
Cross, South Carolina
( Marker is on Ranger Drive (State Highway 6), on the left when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1992

  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.

South Carolina is the birthplace of several famous musicians, including James Brown, Dizzy Gillespie, and Chubby Checker.
South Carolina random facts
Berkeley County, located in South Carolina, has a rich history dating back to the early colonial period. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Cusabo and Stono, who lived off the rich resources of the land and waterways. In the late 17th century, English settlers arrived and established plantations for growing crops such as rice, indigo, and later cotton. These plantations relied heavily on enslaved labor, shaping the economic and social fabric of the region.

During the American Revolution, Berkeley County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The Battle of Moncks Corner, fought in 1780, was a key engagement in the southern campaign and saw the Patriots successfully defend against the British forces. The county was also an important center for partisan warfare, with notable figures such as Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox," leading guerrilla attacks against British troops. The war left a lasting impact on the county, with many plantation owners losing their wealth and influence.

In the antebellum period, Berkeley County experienced further growth and prosperity through agriculture. The county's fertile soil and warm climate made it ideal for cultivating cash crops. The landscape was dotted with sprawling plantations, and the enslaved population grew to outnumber the white residents significantly. However, this prosperity was built on the backs of enslaved individuals who endured harsh conditions and exploitation.

The Civil War brought significant changes to Berkeley County, as it did to the entire South. The Union forces occupied the area in 1865, resulting in the abolition of slavery and changes to the social order. The economy, heavily dependent on agriculture, struggled to recover in the post-war years. Today, Berkeley County is a mix of rural and urban communities, with a diverse population and a vibrant economy driven by industries such as manufacturing and tourism. The county continues to honor its history through various historical sites, museums, and events that highlight its unique heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Berkeley County, South Carolina.

  • 1682 - Berkeley County is established as one of the three original counties in Carolina Province.
  • 1769 - The county courthouse is relocated from the original town of St. John's Parish to Mount Pleasant.
  • 1785 - Charleston becomes the county seat, replacing Mount Pleasant, which is designated as a separate district.
  • 1865 - The Civil War ends, and Berkeley County is occupied by Union forces.
  • 1895 - South Carolina's state constitution is ratified, effectively establishing Berkeley County's current boundaries.
  • 1909 - The construction of the Santee Canal is completed, connecting Berkeley County to the Santee River and fostering economic growth.
  • 1973 - The Naval Weapons Station Charleston is established in Berkeley County.
  • 2005 - Berkeley County experiences significant population growth due to increased development and new industries.