U.S. Post Office, Courthouse, and Customhouse
a.k.a. Main Post Office
11th and Market Sts., Wilmington, DE Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
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.
The District of Delaware is home to several historic landmarks, including the Old New Castle Courthouse, which was built in 1732 and served as the state's first courthouse, and the Nemours Estate, a mansion built in the early 20th century by Alfred I. du Pont. The district is also home to several museums, including the Delaware Art Museum and the Hagley Museum and Library.
In the 18th century, New Castle County played a significant role in the American Revolution. It was home to several key figures, including Caesar Rodney, who famously rode from Delaware to Philadelphia to cast the deciding vote for American independence. The area was also a critical shipping and trading port, attracting merchants and businessmen from all over the region.
As the 19th century dawned, New Castle County transitioned from an agrarian society to an industrial hub. The growth of the county was fueled by the construction of canals and railroads, which brought prosperity and commerce to the area. Industries such as textiles, paper, and shipbuilding thrived during this time, attracting a wave of immigrants who found work and settled in the county.
In the 20th century, New Castle County experienced rapid urbanization and suburbanization. Wilmington, the county seat, grew into a major financial and corporate center, with the presence of large banking and chemical industries. The county also saw significant population growth, as people moved from rural areas to live closer to employment opportunities. In recent decades, New Castle County has focused on attracting high-tech industries and promoting economic development while preserving its historical landmarks and natural beauty.
New Castle County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of New Castle County, Delaware.
- New Castle County is founded by Dutch colonists and named after the city of Nieuw-Amstel, which later becomes New Castle, in 1664.
- In 1682, New Castle County becomes part of the newly formed British colony of Delaware.
- During the American Revolutionary War, New Castle County sees military action, including the Battle of Cooch's Bridge in 1777.
- In 1801, the state capital is moved from New Castle to Dover, but New Castle County remains an important economic and cultural center.
- The Industrial Revolution leads to the growth of manufacturing and industry in New Castle County in the 19th century.
- In the early 20th century, New Castle County experiences rapid urbanization and population growth.
- During World War II, New Castle County becomes a military hub with the construction of the New Castle Army Air Base.
- After the war, New Castle County continues to grow and develop, becoming a major center for banking, finance, and healthcare.