US Post Office-Scottsbluff
a.k.a. NEHBS #SF 11-151
120 E. 16th St., Scottsbluff, NE Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
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 state song of Nebraska is "Beautiful Nebraska," which was written by Jim Fras and Guy G. Miller in 1967.
The Oregon Trail, which passed through present-day Scotts Bluff County, became a popular route for pioneers during the mid-19th century. The Donner Party, one of the most famous wagon trains, passed through this area in 1846. In 1851, the U.S. government established Fort Mitchell to protect travelers along the Oregon Trail. However, conflicts with Native American tribes led to the fort's relocation and eventual abandonment.
In 1853, the U.S. Army established Fort Mitchell as Fort Mitchell Military Road, securing the area as a strategic military post. The military presence in the region helped pave the way for further settlement and development. In 1867, Scotts Bluff County was formed and named after the prominent landmark of Scotts Bluff, a natural formation that served as a significant landmark for pioneers traveling west.
The arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad in 1867 further accelerated the growth and development of Scotts Bluff County. The railroad brought new opportunities for trade, transportation, and economic growth. Agriculture became a vital industry, with farmers taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant water supply from the North Platte River. Over time, Scotts Bluff County became a thriving agricultural hub, with various crops and livestock flourishing in the region.
Today, Scotts Bluff County continues to thrive as a vital part of Nebraska's economy, with agriculture remaining a significant industry. The county's rich history, natural beauty, and strategic location along major transportation routes make it a unique and important part of the state's heritage.
Scotts Bluff County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska.
- 1812 - Scotts Bluff County area identified by American explorers Lewis and Clark during their expedition.
- 1838 - The first recorded non-native settlement in the area is established at Fort Robidoux.
- 1849 - The Oregon Trail becomes a popular route through the county, leading to increased settlement and trade.
- 1867 - Scotts Bluff County is organized and officially established.
- 1887 - The city of Gering is founded.
- 1908 - The towns of Melbeta and Minatare are incorporated.
- 1929 - The North Platte Project brings irrigation to the county, boosting agricultural production.
- 1954 - The city of Scottsbluff is formed through the merger of two neighboring communities.
- 1983 - Scotts Bluff National Monument is designated, preserving the iconic geological formation in the area.