Historical Marker

"Old" Chardon Post Office

Historical marker location:
121 South Street, Chardon, Ohio
Marker installed: 2012

  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.

The city of Akron, Ohio, was once known as the "Rubber Capital of the World" because of its thriving rubber industry. Companies like Goodyear, Firestone, and General Tire all had headquarters in Akron at one point.
Ohio random facts
Geauga County, Ohio, was first settled by European-American pioneers in the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1806 as one of the original counties of the Connecticut Western Reserve. The name "Geauga" is derived from a Native American word meaning "raccoon." The first European settlers faced harsh conditions, including dense forests and swamps, as they began clearing the land for agriculture and establishing small communities.

By the mid-1800s, Geauga County had become known for its agricultural productivity. The fertile soil supported a thriving industry of dairy farming and fruit cultivation. The county's proximity to Lake Erie and the development of railroads also contributed to its economic growth. Several small towns emerged, including Chardon, the county seat, which became a hub for governmental and commercial activities.

During the American Civil War, Geauga County made significant contributions to the Union cause. Many residents served in the Union Army, and the county provided supplies and support for the war effort. In the post-war years, the county experienced further development, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The expansion of industries such as manufacturing, lumbering, and quarrying also contributed to Geauga County's growth and prosperity.

In the 20th century, Geauga County maintained its agricultural heritage while also adapting to changing economic conditions. The county experienced a population boom and suburban development around major cities like Cleveland, leading to a mix of rural and suburban areas. Today, Geauga County continues to be known for its picturesque landscapes, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community. The county's rich history is preserved in its historical sites, museums, and local traditions, reflecting the resilience and growth of the area over the centuries.

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

  • 1796 - Geauga County is established as the first county in the Connecticut Western Reserve.
  • 1808 - Geauga County becomes an official county of the state of Ohio.
  • 1812 - Geauga County plays a role in the War of 1812 with the establishment of militia units.
  • 1842 - The village of Chardon becomes the county seat of Geauga County.
  • 1858 - The Geauga County Fair, one of the oldest and largest county fairs in Ohio, is established.
  • 1946 - Burton, a village in Geauga County, becomes the center of the nation's largest concentration of maple syrup production.
  • 1990 - Geauga County has the highest percentage of Amish residents of any county in Ohio.
  • 2010 - The population of Geauga County reaches over 93,000 residents.