National Register Listing

US Post Office, Federal Building, and Federal Courthouse-Sterling Main

a.k.a. Sterling Post Office,Federal Building, and Federal Courthous

Third and Popular Sts., Sterling, CO
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
  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.

architecture law courthouses buildings
The first documented discovery of gold in Colorado was in 1858, when a group of prospectors found gold near present-day Denver. This discovery led to the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and a population boom in the area.
Colorado random facts
Logan County, Colorado, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho, who relied on the land for hunting and gathering. In the late 19th century, European settlers began to arrive, attracted by the promise of fertile soil and abundant opportunities for cattle ranching.

In 1885, Logan County was officially established, named after John A. Logan, a Civil War general and senator from Illinois. The burgeoning county soon became a hub for agricultural activity, with settlers cultivating crops like wheat, corn, and sugar beets. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further stimulated the region's growth, facilitating transportation and trade.

During this period, the county faced various challenges, including droughts and economic downturns. However, the resilient community persevered and adapted, diversifying its agricultural practices and exploring new industries. In the early 20th century, oil was discovered in the area, leading to a boom in oil production and providing a significant economic boost for Logan County.

Today, Logan County is a mix of agricultural, industrial, and recreational interests. Agriculture remains a vital part of the local economy, with farming and ranching playing significant roles. The county is also home to manufacturing and refining industries, as well as important natural resources like sand and gravel. With its picturesque landscapes and recreational opportunities, including camping, fishing, and hunting, Logan County continues to attract visitors and residents alike, preserving its distinct history while embracing the possibilities of the future.

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

  • 1887 - Logan County is established on February 25th.
  • 1895 - Sterling is incorporated as the county seat on February 25th.
  • 1899 - The Logan County Courthouse is completed.
  • 1935 - The Dust Bowl severely affects agriculture in Logan County.
  • 1942 - Japanese American internment camps open in Amache near Granada.
  • 1953 - Logan County Historical Society is founded.
  • 2009 - The Sterling Correctional Facility, Colorado's largest prison, is constructed.
  • 2013 - The South Platte River flood affects Logan County and surrounding areas.