1910 Post Office Building
Historical marker location:Established in 1884, the original Marble Falls Post Office was built south of the Colorado River. William P. Cochran, appointed postmaster in 1901, built this structure in 1910 and leased it to the U. S. Government for use as a post office. It continued to serve as a postal facility until about 1950. Constructed of poured concrete, the building features a central double door with three-pane transom, a simply detailed cornice, and a stone parapet.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1989
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.
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
During the mid-1800s, the county played a significant role in the development of Texas. It served as a route for settlers heading west to other regions and became a popular stop for travelers. The town of Burnet, the county seat, grew steadily and became a center for trade and commerce.
In the late 19th century, Burnet County experienced a boom when the railroad reached the area in 1882. This new mode of transportation brought an influx of people and helped to stimulate economic growth. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, flourished during this time. The county also saw the establishment of various businesses, schools, and churches.
In the 20th century, Burnet County continued to evolve. It became known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors from all over. The area also played a role in World War II, as Camp Bowie, a military training facility, was built in the county. Today, Burnet County remains a vibrant community with a mix of historical significance and natural beauty, offering residents and visitors a unique experience.
Burnet County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Burnet County, Texas.
- 1848: Burnet County is established by the Texas legislature and named after David G. Burnet, the first president of the Republic of Texas.
- 1852: The first permanent settler, Reuben Hornsby, arrives in the area.
- 1854: The town of Burnet is designated as the county seat.
- 1861-1865: Burnet County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
- 1870: The population of Burnet County reaches over 2,000.
- 1873: The Austin and Northwestern Railroad is completed, connecting Burnet County to other parts of Texas.
- 1882: The Texas Legislature establishes the first marble quarry in Marble Falls, bringing economic growth to the county.
- 1937: Lake Buchanan is completed, becoming the first of several reservoirs built in Burnet County to provide water and hydroelectric power.
- 1984: The Highland Lakes chain, a series of six reservoirs including Lake Buchanan, becomes a major tourist attraction in Burnet County.
- 2008: The historic Burnet County Courthouse, built in 1884, is restored and reopened to the public.