Machias Post Office and Customhouse
Main and Center Sts., Machias, ME Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
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.
Maine was the site of the worst maritime disaster in U.S. history: The worst maritime disaster in U.S. history occurred off the coast of Maine in 1914, when the passenger ship SS Eastland capsized, killing 844 people. The disaster was caused by overcrowding and instability due to design flaws.
In the early 17th century, European explorers and settlers began arriving in the area. Dutch colonists were among the first Europeans to establish a presence, followed by the English who claimed the land for their expanding colonies. The English established trading posts and fishing villages, leading to increased European presence in the region.
During the American Revolution, Washington County played a significant role. The population was divided in its support, with some residents favoring independence while others remained loyal to the British Crown. The area's coastal location made it a hotbed for smuggling and privateering, as it provided easy access to the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean.
In the 19th century, Washington County experienced significant economic growth, particularly in the lumber and fishing industries. Sawmills and shipyards were established, taking advantage of the region's abundant forests and access to the sea. The coastal towns also became popular summer destinations for wealthy tourists, who were drawn to the picturesque coastlines and natural beauty of the area.
Today, Washington County continues to be known for its natural resources and picturesque landscapes. It remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and kayaking. The county also has a strong sense of community pride and embraces its historical roots, with numerous museums, festivals, and events celebrating the region's unique history and culture.
Washington County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Washington County, Maine.
- 1789 - Washington County established as a county in the state of Maine
- 1808 - Machias becomes the county seat of Washington County
- 1838 - Washington County's population reaches 10,784
- 1860s - Lumber industry booms in Washington County
- 1889 - Washington County's population reaches its peak at 34,518
- 1914 - Eastport becomes the easternmost port in the United States
- 1940s - Decline in the lumber industry negatively affects Washington County's economy
- 1961 - Quoddy Dam is completed, creating the West Quoddy Head State Park
- 2002 - Washington County's population declines to 33,941
- 2012 - 75% of the county's land is under forest cover