Historical Marker

Holland Post Office

Historical marker location:
31 West 10th Street, Holland, Michigan
( Marker is at the intersection of West Tenth Street and South River Avenue (U.S. 31), on the right when traveling west on West Tenth Street.)
Marker installed: 1997

  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.

Audiobooks about the history of Michigan.
The first known use of the word "Yooper" to refer to someone from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan was in the 1970s. The term has since become a popular nickname for residents of the UP.
Michigan random facts
Ottawa County is located in the state of Michigan and has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1837. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Ojibwe tribes, who primarily relied on the land for hunting and fishing. European settlers arrived in the early 19th century, with the first permanent settlement established in what is now known as Holland, Michigan.

The county's early economy was largely centered around agriculture, with settlers cultivating crops such as wheat and corn. The construction of the Erie Canal in the 1830s facilitated trade and transportation, opening up opportunities for economic growth and attracting more settlers to the area. As the population grew, Ottawa County became a key hub for manufacturing and industry, particularly in the furniture, automotive, and manufacturing sectors.

Ottawa County played a significant role in the early development of the automotive industry in Michigan, with Henry Ford opening his first automobile factory in Highland Park, just outside of the county, in the early 1900s. The county's proximity to major waterways, including Lake Michigan and the Grand River, also made it an important transportation and shipping hub.

In recent years, Ottawa County has experienced continued growth and development, with a diversification of industries and population. The county is known for its natural beauty, including its picturesque beaches along Lake Michigan, as well as its commitment to preserving its history and culture. Today, Ottawa County is a thriving community with a strong economy, vibrant cities, and a rich historical heritage.

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

  • 1831: Ottawa County is established by an act of the Michigan Territorial Legislature.
  • 1836: The county is formally organized, with its first government officials appointed.
  • 1837: The city of Holland is settled by Dutch immigrants, becoming an important cultural and economic center in the county.
  • 1845: Grand Haven is incorporated as a city, serving as a major port on Lake Michigan.
  • 1850: The county's population reaches over 8,000 people.
  • 1860: The county's population grows to more than 22,000 people.
  • 1885: The city of Zeeland is incorporated, founded by Dutch Calvinist separatists.
  • 1901: The county's population reaches over 40,000 people.
  • 1938: The Grand Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse is built, becoming a historic landmark in the county.
  • 1956: The county's population surpasses 100,000 people.
  • 1981: Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission is established, leading to the development of numerous parks and natural areas.
  • 2000: The county's population exceeds 238,000 people.
  • 2019: Ottawa County continues to experience steady growth and maintains a strong economy.