National Register Listing

Old US Post Office

a.k.a. Old Main Post Office

745 NW Wall, Bend, OR
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
  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 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.

government architecture post office
Audiobooks about the history of Oregon.
The Oregon State Hospital, located in Salem, Oregon, was the setting for the novel and movie "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." The hospital was also known for its use of electroconvulsive therapy and other controversial treatments.
Oregon random facts
Deschutes County, located in central Oregon, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, most notably the Northern Paiute, who relied on the rich natural resources of the area for their livelihoods. However, with the arrival of European explorers and settlers in the 19th century, the region underwent significant changes.

In the mid-1800s, many pioneers began to settle in what is now Deschutes County, drawn by the promise of fertile land and abundant water sources. The Deschutes River, which runs through the county, played a crucial role in the development and later irrigation of the area. These early settlers engaged in various industries such as logging, ranching, and agriculture, which formed the foundation of the county's economy.

Deschutes County experienced a significant period of growth and prosperity following the construction of the Oregon Trunk Railroad in the early 1900s. The railroad not only facilitated faster transportation and the movement of goods but also led to increased tourism. Many people were attracted to the county's stunning natural landscapes, including the famous lava fields, high desert, and the nearby Cascade Mountains, which provided opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventure.

In more recent times, Deschutes County has experienced a population boom and rapid urbanization, particularly in the city of Bend. The county's vibrant arts scene, thriving breweries, and popular outdoor activities have made it a desirable destination for residents and tourists alike. However, managing the challenges that come with growth, such as housing affordability and environmental conservation, has become a key concern for the county's leaders.

Overall, Deschutes County's history has seen a transition from Native American homelands to a pioneer settlement, railroad expansion, and the development of the region into a popular recreational and tourist destination. Its diverse landscape and natural resources continue to shape the county's culture, economy, and growth patterns.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Deschutes County, Oregon.

  • 1836: The area that is now Deschutes County was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Northern Paiute, Bannock, and Warm Springs tribes.
  • 1843: John C. Fremont becomes the first recorded non-Indian to visit the region. He names the Deschutes River "Riviere des Chutes," meaning "River of the Falls" in French.
  • 1859: Oregon becomes a state, and the Deschutes County area becomes part of Wasco County.
  • 1870s: The Central Oregon region, including present-day Deschutes County, starts attracting settlers and ranchers due to its fertile lands and opportunities for farming.
  • 1904: Deschutes County is established, separating from the larger Wasco County.
  • 1905: Bend is established as the county seat of Deschutes County, replacing the initial county seat of Hila.
  • 1911: The first Deschutes County Fair is held, showcasing the agricultural achievements of the region.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression affects Deschutes County's economy, leading to a decline in agricultural and mining industries.
  • 1938: Pilot Butte State Park is established, providing recreational opportunities and hiking trails.
  • 1960s: The construction of the Deschutes River dams, including the Wickiup and Crane Prairie dams, leads to the creation of reservoirs and the development of the area's irrigation system.
  • 1980s: Deschutes County experiences rapid growth and development, with an influx of new residents attracted to the area's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • 2002: The Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center is expanded and renovated to better serve the community.
  • Present: Deschutes County continues to grow and thrive as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, fishing, and whitewater rafting.