Historical Marker

Nation's Oldest Continuously Operating Post Office Building

Historical marker location:
13 Main Street, Hinsdale, New Hampshire
( Marker is on Main Street (New Hampshire Route 119) just west of Depot Street, on the left when traveling west.)

Since 1816

  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.

In 1803, New Hampshire resident Benjamin Dearborn built the first potato harvester, which revolutionized farming in the United States.
New Hampshire random facts
Cheshire County, New Hampshire, has a rich history dating back to its settlement in the mid-1700s. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Pennacooks and Abenaki. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1730s, led by Colonel John Schuyler. They established the town of Upper Ashuelot, which later became Keene, the county seat.

During the American Revolution, Cheshire County played a significant role. Many locals joined the patriot cause, and several battles and skirmishes took place within its borders. Keene, in particular, saw military activity during the war and served as a supply depot for the Continental Army. After gaining independence, the county experienced growth and prosperity as agriculture and industry flourished.

In the early 19th century, Cheshire County witnessed an increase in population and economic development. The construction of canals and railroads contributed to its growth, connecting the county to neighboring regions and expanding trade opportunities. Industries like textiles, lumber, and manufacturing thrived, attracting workers and further stimulating the local economy.

By the 20th century, Cheshire County saw a shift in its economic landscape. Manufacturing declined and was replaced by service-based industries, education, and healthcare. The county also became known for its scenic beauty, attracting tourists and recreation enthusiasts. Today, Cheshire County continues to be a vibrant area, balancing its historic significance with modern development and offering a high quality of life for its residents.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cheshire County, New Hampshire.

  • 1769 - Cheshire County was established on March 19, 1769, as one of the five original counties in New Hampshire.
  • 1771 - The first settlers, led by General Jonathan Chase, arrived in the region.
  • 1771-1774 - Settlements began to form in present-day Keene and other towns.
  • 1775-1783 - Cheshire County residents actively participated in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1780 - The town of Keene was incorporated.
  • 1791 - The town of Jaffrey was incorporated.
  • 1800s - Industrialization flourished across the county, with mills and factories being established.
  • 1858 - The city of Keene was incorporated.
  • 1902 - The city of Keene became the county seat.
  • 1940s-1960s - Cheshire County experienced significant population growth and suburbanization.
  • 1971 - The Cheshire County Historical Society was founded to preserve and promote local history.
  • 1980s-present - Cheshire County continues to thrive with a diverse economy and a focus on culture, education, and outdoor recreation.