United States Post Office-Belvidere
200 S. State St., Belvidere, IL Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2000.
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 Chicago River was famously dyed green for the first time in 1962 to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The tradition has continued every year since then, and now the river is dyed green for the holiday using an eco-friendly vegetable dye.
In 1833, Boone County was established as part of the Illinois Territory and was named after the famous frontiersman Daniel Boone. The county soon saw an influx of settlers, primarily from the eastern United States, who were attracted to the fertile soil and abundant natural resources. Agriculture played a significant role in the county's early development, with farmers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. The establishment of small towns and villages, including Belvidere, the current county seat, further contributed to the growth of the region.
During the mid-19th century, Boone County experienced rapid expansion facilitated by the arrival of the railroad. The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, completed in 1852, connected the county with the growing city of Chicago, promoting trade and industrialization. This development brought new opportunities for the local economy, leading to the establishment of mills, factories, and other businesses. The population increased, and the county began to flourish.
Over the years, Boone County continued to develop and diversify its economy. Today, it is known for its thriving agricultural industry, manufacturing sector, and various recreational opportunities. The county also preserves its history through museums, historical sites, and events that showcase its heritage. Boone County remains an important part of Illinois's history and continues to be a vibrant community for its residents.
Boone County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Boone County, Illinois.
- 1835: Boone County is established as a county in the state of Illinois.
- 1837: The first permanent settlement, Belvidere, is established in Boone County.
- 1843: Boone County's first courthouse is constructed in Belvidere.
- 1851: The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad is completed, connecting Boone County to larger markets.
- 1855: Boone County's population exceeds 10,000 residents.
- 1881: The Great Blizzard of 1881 hits Boone County, causing extensive damage and loss of life.
- 1928: The Boone County Fair is established.
- 1935: Kishwaukee Community College is founded in Boone County.
- 1970: Boone County's population surpasses 30,000 residents.
- 2001: The Belvidere Tornado strikes, causing significant destruction and loss of life.
- 2020: Boone County celebrates its 185th anniversary.