National Register Listing

U.S. Post Office

a.k.a. Federal Building

Randolph and Church Sts., Champaign, IL
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
  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 post office
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.
Illinois random facts
Champaign County, located in central Illinois, has a rich history that spans over two centuries. The region was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Kickapoo, Potawatomi, and Chippewa, who utilized the land for hunting and agriculture. European settlers began to arrive in the area in the early 19th century, drawn to the fertile soil and abundant natural resources.

In 1833, Champaign County was officially established, named after the prominent Champaign County in Ohio. The county seat was initially located in a small village called Urbana, which has remained the county's central hub for government, commerce, and education. The early settlers played a crucial role in developing the area's infrastructure, establishing schools, and creating a sense of community.

The arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in the 1850s played a significant role in the county's development, connecting towns and facilitating trade. The railroad brought increased economic opportunities, leading to the establishment of new industries and a growing population. Agriculture also played a vital role in Champaign County's economy, with farmers taking advantage of the fertile soil to grow a variety of crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat.

Over the years, Champaign County has become known for its educational institutions. In 1867, the University of Illinois was founded in Urbana, which quickly became a leading research institution. The university's presence has greatly influenced the county, attracting scholars, businesses, and cultural activities. Today, Champaign County remains a vibrant and prosperous area, with a strong emphasis on education, agriculture, and innovation.

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

  • 1833: Champaign County is established
  • 1835: First public land sales occur in the county
  • 1850: Population reaches 5,243
  • 1855: Illinois Central Railroad begins operating in Champaign County
  • 1868: University of Illinois is founded in Champaign
  • 1893: Urbana becomes the county seat
  • 1909: First paved road is constructed in the county
  • 1942: Chanute Air Force Base is established near Rantoul
  • 1954: Memorial Stadium is built at the University of Illinois
  • 1968: Interstate 57 opens, connecting Champaign County to Chicago
  • 2000: Champaign County's population reaches 179,669