U.S. Post Office, Court House and Custom House
a.k.a. Alexander Pirnie Federal Building
10 Broad St., Utica, NY Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2015.
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 Hudson River School of painting, which was a 19th-century art movement that focused on landscapes and the natural world, was founded in New York State. Some of its most famous artists, such as Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, lived and worked in the Hudson River Valley.
In the 18th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area. In 1798, Oneida County was formed as one of the original counties of New York State. The county's primary economic activities during this time were farming, logging, and trade. Large-scale commercial operations, such as mills and factories, started to emerge in the early 19th century, thanks to the establishment of the Erie Canal, which connected the region to major markets.
During the American Revolutionary War, Oneida County played a significant role. The Oneida Indian Nation provided support to the American forces and were valued allies in the fight against the British. After the war, the county experienced significant growth and development, with new towns and cities being established.
In the 20th century, Oneida County continued to evolve as industrialization took hold. The region became a major center for manufacturing, especially in industries like textiles, steel, and electronics. The area also played a crucial role in the aerospace industry, with Griffiss Air Force Base serving as a research and development site.
Today, Oneida County is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and diverse economy. It is home to several educational institutions, including Utica College and Hamilton College. The county also boasts various recreational opportunities, such as state parks, historic sites, and cultural events, making it an appealing destination for both residents and tourists.
Oneida County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Oneida County, New York.
- 1798 - Oneida County is formed from parts of Herkimer and Montgomery counties.
- 1799 - Utica is established as the county seat.
- 1805 - Clinton becomes the county seat, but Utica regains the title in 1820.
- 1807 - Construction of the Erie Canal begins, which greatly impacts the county's economy.
- 1812-1814 - Oneida County plays a significant role in the War of 1812.
- 1816 - Utica becomes an incorporated village.
- 1829 - The first railroad in the county, the Mohawk and Hudson Railroad, is chartered.
- 1843 - Oneida County Agricultural Society organizes the first county fair.
- 1851 - The first public water supply system is established in Utica.
- 1870 - Oneida County Historical Society is founded.
- 1879 - The Utica Curling Club is established, becoming the oldest continuously operating curling club in the United States.
- 1918-1920 - Spanish influenza pandemic affects Oneida County.
- 1974 - Griffiss Air Force Base is established in Rome.
- 1990 - Turning Stone Resort Casino opens in Verona.
- 2013 - Oneida Indian Nation purchases two golf courses and transforms them into the Atunyote Golf Club.