US Post Office-Greenfield Main
a.k.a. Greenfield Main Post Office
442 Main St., Greenfield, MA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
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 Boston Marathon, one of the world's oldest annual marathons, has been held since 1897. It takes place on Patriots' Day, a Massachusetts state holiday commemorating the start of the American Revolutionary War.
In the 1800s, Franklin County experienced significant industrial growth. The construction of canals and the expansion of the railroad network allowed for the transportation of goods and materials, leading to the establishment of mills and factories. Towns such as Greenfield, Shelburne Falls, and Turners Falls became centers of industry, manufacturing textiles, paper, and machinery.
During the mid-1800s, Franklin County played a prominent role in the abolitionist movement. Many residents actively participated in the Underground Railroad, assisting escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. Greenfield became a hub for anti-slavery organizations and hosted meetings and conventions advocating for the abolition of slavery.
In the 20th century, Franklin County underwent significant changes. With the decline of traditional industries, the area transitioned towards a more service-based economy. Today, the county is known for its vibrant cultural scene, natural beauty, and agricultural heritage, attracting tourists and residents alike.
Overall, Franklin County's history is characterized by its rich Native American heritage, industrial boom, abolitionist legacy, and transition towards a diverse and thriving community.
Franklin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, Massachusetts.
- 1600s: Native American tribes, including the Pocomtuc and Mahican, inhabit the area now known as Franklin County.
- 1673: English colonists establish the town of Deerfield, one of the first European settlements in the region.
- 1675-1676: King Philip's War erupts, resulting in attacks on English settlements, including the infamous Deerfield Massacre in 1675.
- 1736: The town of Greenfield is officially incorporated.
- 1774: Residents of Northfield form the Northfield Association, which becomes a model for colonial self-government and local democracy.
- 1783: The Treaty of Paris formally ends the American Revolutionary War, leading to the creation of the United States.
- 1800s: The development of the Industrial Revolution brings manufacturing and industrialization to towns in Franklin County.
- 1831: The Deerfield Academy is founded, becoming one of the earliest college-preparatory schools in the United States.
- 1851: The town of Shelburne Falls is incorporated, known for its picturesque Bridge of Flowers.
- 1893: The first trolley line is established in Greenfield, connecting the town to neighboring communities.
- 1901: The Franklin County Courthouse in Greenfield is completed, serving as the county seat.
- 1956: The Interstate Highway System reaches Franklin County, with the completion of Interstate 91 through the region.
- 2004: The Great Falls Discovery Center opens in Turners Falls, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the Connecticut River.
- 2011: Franklin County celebrates its 200th anniversary since being officially established as a county in 1811.