Historical Marker

Salem Post Office

Historical marker location:
120 W Broadway, Salem, New Jersey
( Marker is on West Broadway (New Jersey Route 49) just east of 5th Street, on the right when traveling west.)

  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 New Jersey.
The first color television broadcast in the world took place in New Jersey in 1951. CBS broadcast a one-hour program called "Premiere," which included a variety of musical performances and a short film.
New Jersey random facts
Salem County, located in southwestern New Jersey, has a rich history that dates back to colonial times. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native American tribe before European settlers arrived in the late 17th century. In 1675, the first European settlement was established by Swedish and Finnish immigrants along the Salem River, which became known as Elsinboro.

During the American Revolutionary War, Salem County played a significant role. The county was a hotbed of patriotic sentiment, with many residents actively supporting the cause of independence. The county's strategic location along the Delaware River made it a key point for transportation and military operations. The Battle of Fort Mercer, a pivotal engagement during the war, took place in Salem County in 1777.

Throughout the 19th century, Salem County thrived due to its agricultural and maritime industries. The county became known for its thriving glass industry, with factories producing glass bottles and window panes. Salem County also had a bustling shipping industry, with the Salem River and the Delaware Bay providing access to markets in Philadelphia and beyond.

In the 20th century, Salem County experienced various economic shifts. While agriculture and industry remained important, the county also became a significant hub for energy production. Salem County is home to the Salem Nuclear Power Plant, which has been in operation since the 1970s. Additionally, the area is known for its picturesque farmland, historic architecture, and small-town charm, attracting visitors and residents alike.

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

  • 1675: European settlement begins in Salem County
  • 1694: Salem County officially established by West Jersey Legislature
  • 1739: Salem incorporated as a city
  • 1778: Salem attacked and plundered by British forces during the American Revolution
  • 1801: First cast iron plow invented in Alloway Township, Salem County
  • 1835: Salem Railroad Company chartered
  • 1868: Salem County Courthouse built
  • 1904: First successful glass factory established in Alloway Township
  • 1952: Construction of the Delaware Memorial Bridge connecting Salem County to Delaware begins
  • 1985: Cowtown Rodeo established, becoming the oldest weekly running rodeo in the USA
  • 2001: Salem Nuclear Power Plant begins commercial operation