National Register Listing

US Post Office-Prestonsburg

a.k.a. FD-48

Central Ave. and E. Court St., Prestonsburg, KY
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
  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.

post office
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
Kentucky was originally part of Virginia and was known as the "Kentucky County" until it became a separate state in 1792.
Kentucky random facts
Floyd County is located in eastern Kentucky, encompassing the Appalachian Mountains and the Big Sandy River. The region that would later become Floyd County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee. European settlement began in the late 18th century when pioneers started to establish communities along the river valleys and the Kentucky Trace, an important pioneer route.

In 1799, Floyd County was established by the Virginia General Assembly, named in honor of Virginia governor John Floyd. The county initially included a vast territory that later became several other counties as the region developed. The early settlers in Floyd County relied on subsistence farming and hunting for their livelihoods. The county also became an important center for salt production, as numerous salt springs were discovered in the area.

During the Civil War, Floyd County witnessed its share of conflict. The region was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Guerrilla warfare was prevalent, with both sides engaging in raids and attacks. In 1862, Confederate forces under General Humphrey Marshall clashed with Union troops at the Battle of Middle Creek, resulting in a Union victory. This battle was a significant moment in the county's history, as it helped secure eastern Kentucky for the Union cause.

In the early 20th century, the development of the coal industry brought significant changes to Floyd County. Coal mining became the primary economic driver, attracting large numbers of miners and their families to the area. However, the industry also brought labor disputes, environmental challenges, and economic fluctuations. Today, Floyd County is known for its rich coal heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and a vibrant community that celebrates its history while striving for a prosperous future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Floyd County, Kentucky.

  • 1799: Floyd County is established as a county in Kentucky.
  • 1800: The first permanent settlement is established in the county.
  • 1803: The county's first courthouse is constructed.
  • 1807: Prestonsburg is officially established as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Floyd County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1920s: The county experiences a boom in the coal mining industry.
  • 1984: The Big Sandy Community and Technical College is established in Floyd County.