Historical Marker

The Gettysburg Post Office and the Civil War

Historical marker location:
115 Buford Avenue, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
( Marker is at the intersection of Lincoln Highway (U.S. 30) and Reynolds Street, on the right when traveling west on Lincoln Highway.)

  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 Pennsylvania.
The Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, was originally cast in England in 1752 and cracked during its first use. It was recast twice in Philadelphia, and the current bell has been on display in Independence National Historical Park since 2003.
Pennsylvania random facts
Adams County, Pennsylvania was established on January 22, 1800, as the 42nd county in the state. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Lenape, until European settlers began arriving in the early 18th century. The county was named after John Adams, the second President of the United States.

During the American Revolutionary War, Adams County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1-3, 1863, was a major turning point in the Civil War and one of the most significant battles in American history. It took place in Gettysburg, a borough in Adams County, and resulted in a Union victory with over 50,000 casualties on both sides. The battlefield is now a national park and a popular tourist attraction.

Agriculture has always been a vital part of Adams County's economy. The county is known for its rich farmland and fertile soil, making it a prime area for growing apples and other fruits. In fact, Adams County is known as the "Fruit Belt" of Pennsylvania and is famous for its apple orchards and apple products, such as apple cider and apple butter. The annual Adams County Apple Harvest Festival, held in October, celebrates this agricultural heritage.

In addition to agriculture, Adams County has a diverse economy, with industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism contributing to its growth. The county seat is located in Gettysburg, which is not only home to historic landmarks but also a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Over the years, the county has experienced population growth and development while still maintaining its rural charm and historical significance.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Adams County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1736: Adams County is formed from York County and named after John Adams, the second President of the United States.
  • 1776: The Battle of Gettysburg takes place during the American Revolutionary War, marking a significant turning point in the war.
  • 1800s: The county's economy thrives with the growth of agriculture, particularly fruit cultivation, wheat farming, and dairy production.
  • 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg occurs during the American Civil War, leading to a devastating loss of life and damage to the area.
  • 1888: The Gettysburg National Military Park is established to preserve and commemorate the historic battlefield.
  • 1900s: The county experiences further growth in agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing industries.
  • 1962: The Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking trail, is completed and passes through Adams County.
  • 2008: Adams County celebrates its 250th anniversary with various events and commemorations.