US Post Office-Lynn Main
a.k.a. Lynn Main Post Office
51 Willow St., Lynn, MA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
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.
In 1773, the Boston Tea Party occurred, where American colonists disguised as Native Americans dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor to protest British taxation.
During the late 17th century, Essex County experienced a dramatic event that would shape its history for centuries to come: the Salem Witch Trials. In 1692, a wave of hysteria swept through Salem, resulting in the execution of 20 individuals accused of witchcraft. This dark period is now remembered as one of the most infamous episodes in American history and has left a lasting impact on the county's cultural identity.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Essex County became a hub of economic activity and industrialization. The region's harbors facilitated trade and shipbuilding, while its rivers powered mills and factories. Cities like Lawrence and Lowell became major centers of textile manufacturing, attracting large numbers of immigrants seeking employment in the mills. This influx of diverse cultures has enriched Essex County's cultural heritage.
In the 20th century, Essex County continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. The decline of traditional industries led to a shift towards a more diversified economy, with an emphasis on healthcare, education, and technology. Today, Essex County remains an important part of the Greater Boston metropolitan area, with its towns and cities offering a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and urban amenities.
Essex County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Essex County, Massachusetts.
- 1629: The area that is now Essex County is settled by English colonists.
- 1643: Essex County is officially established as one of the three original counties in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
- 1692: The infamous Salem Witch Trials take place in Essex County, leading to the execution of several individuals accused of witchcraft.
- 1700s: Essex County becomes a center for shipbuilding and maritime trade.
- 1775-1783: Essex County residents play a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, with many serving in the Continental Army.
- 1808: The Essex Merrimack Bridge, connecting Essex County with Merrimack, New Hampshire, is completed, facilitating trade.
- 1836: The city of Lawrence is incorporated, becoming one of the major industrial centers in Essex County.
- 1861-1865: Many residents of Essex County fight in the American Civil War, with some notable involvement in naval operations.
- 1908: The Great Chelsea Fire destroys parts of Chelsea, a city in Essex County, leading to advancements in fire safety regulations.
- 1965: Essex County Community College is established in Haverhill, providing higher education opportunities for local residents.
- 2004: Essex County Greenbelt Association is formed to preserve and protect open spaces and farmlands in the county.