United States Post Office, Federal Annex
a.k.a. Federal Annex; Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building
77 Forsyth St., Atlanta, GA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
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 city of Atlanta hosted the Summer Olympics in 1996, and it was the first time that a bomb exploded at the Olympic Games, killing two people and injuring over 100 others.
In 1853, Fulton County was created from portions of DeKalb, Cobb, and Campbell counties. Its formation was a result of Atlanta's rapid growth as a railroad hub, as well as its status as the capital of Georgia. The county was named after Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat.
During the Civil War, Fulton County played a significant role as a major supply and transportation center for the Confederacy. Atlanta, the county seat, was a key target for Union troops. In 1864, General William T. Sherman led his famous March to the Sea, devastating Atlanta and much of Fulton County.
After the war, Fulton County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The city of Atlanta became a prominent center for commerce and industry in the South. With the expansion of railroads and the establishment of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Fulton County became a major transportation hub and economic powerhouse.
Today, Fulton County is the most populous county in Georgia, with a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and a thriving economy. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, prestigious universities, and world-class sporting events. Fulton County continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its residents, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Fulton County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Fulton County, Georgia.
- 1845: Fulton County is created on December 20th, out of the western half of DeKalb County.
- 1853: Atlanta becomes the county seat after winning a county seat war against neighboring town, Marietta.
- 1864: During the Civil War, Atlanta is captured by Union forces led by General William T. Sherman.
- 1871: The first horse-drawn streetcar line begins operating in Atlanta.
- 1907: Atlanta's first professional baseball team, the Atlanta Crackers, is founded.
- 1956: Civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leads the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sparking a nationwide movement for equality.
- 1973: The iconic Atlanta stadium, later known as the Fulton County Stadium, is completed.
- 1996: Atlanta hosts the Summer Olympics, showcasing the city's growth and development.
- 2000: The Georgia Dome, a multi-purpose sports and convention center, opens in Atlanta.
- 2017: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, opens its doors.