Post Office of Loretta
Historical marker location: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 the 16th century, Spanish explorers began to venture into what is now Texas County. However, it was not until the 19th century that significant settlements were established. During this time, Texas County was part of the Unassigned Lands, which were designated for Native Americans who were forcefully relocated from their ancestral territories further east.
In 1901, the discovery of vast oil reserves in nearby Osage County sparked a boom in Texas County. Many people flocked to the area in hopes of striking it rich, leading to a rapid increase in population. This influx of settlers laid the foundation for the county's development and growth.
Over the years, Texas County has continued to thrive, largely due to its strong agricultural and energy sectors. The region became known for its vast cattle ranches, wheat and corn farms, and oil and gas production. Today, Texas County remains an important economic hub in Oklahoma, attracting visitors for its rich history and natural beauty.
Throughout its history, Texas County has seen significant changes and developments, from its early Native American inhabitants to its status as a prominent agricultural and energy center. The county's past is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its residents, who have shaped it into the vibrant community it is today.
Texas County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Texas County, Oklahoma.
- 1884 - Texas County is established as a county in the Oklahoma Territory.
- 1887 - The town of Guymon is founded and becomes the county seat of Texas County.
- 1901 - The first oil well is drilled in Texas County, marking the beginning of the county's oil industry.
- 1933 - The Dust Bowl hits Texas County, leading to severe drought and economic hardships.
- 1943 - The Guymon Army Airfield is established to train pilots during World War II.
- 1957 - The Optima National Wildlife Refuge is created in Texas County.
- 1981 - Texas County experiences an oil boom, bringing economic growth to the region.
- 2009 - Guymon is named the "Golden Spread" for its economic stability during the national recession.