National Register Listing

U.S. Post Office

a.k.a. Old Post Office

Irby and W. Evan Sts., Florence, SC
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
  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.

post office
South Carolina was the first state to secede from the Union, but it was also the last state to rejoin the Union after the Civil War. Reconstruction in the state was marked by violence and political turmoil.
South Carolina random facts
Florence County, located in the northeastern part of South Carolina, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Pee Dee and Cheraw tribes. European exploration and settlement began in the early 18th century, with the arrival of traders and settlers from England and Scotland.

In 1888, Florence County was formally established after being carved out of neighboring Darlington County. The city of Florence, which would become the county seat, was incorporated in 1890. Early economic development in the county was driven by agriculture, particularly cotton farming, and the construction of railroads, which connected the region to larger markets.

The history of Florence County is marked by key events that reflect the broader historical context of the South. During the Civil War, the county witnessed significant military action, including the Battle of Florence in 1865. The war brought destruction and hardships, but the area gradually recovered in the postwar years.

In the 20th century, Florence County experienced growth and diversification in its economy. The rise of manufacturing, particularly in textiles and tobacco, brought about industrialization and increased employment opportunities. Over time, the county evolved into a regional center for healthcare, education, and cultural activities, with institutions like McLeod Regional Medical Center and Francis Marion University playing vital roles in the community.

Today, Florence County continues to thrive as a vibrant and dynamic part of South Carolina. Its history can be seen through its architecture, museums, and landmarks, preserving the legacy of its past while embracing the opportunities of the present and future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Florence County, South Carolina.

  • 1888: Florence County is formed from parts of Darlington and Marion counties.
  • 1911: The city of Florence is established.
  • Early 1900s: The textile industry booms, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1940s: The Interstate Highway System is developed, connecting Florence County to other parts of the state.
  • 1970s: The healthcare industry becomes a major employer in the county with the opening of McLeod Regional Medical Center.
  • 2000s: Florence County experiences population growth and urban development.