Historical Marker

Former U.S. Post Office

Historical marker location:
100 North Main Street/Dublin Pike, Dublin, Pennsylvania
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street/Dublin Pike (Pennsylvania Route 313) and Maple Avenue, on the left when traveling north on Main Street/Dublin Pike.)

Dublin, Pa. • 1923-1975

  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 Hershey Company, one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world, was founded in Hershey, Pennsylvania, in 1894.
Pennsylvania random facts
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The county is located in the southeastern part of the state and is one of the three original counties established by William Penn in 1682. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lenni Lenape, who lived off the land and established settlements along the Delaware River.

In the 17th century, European settlers began to arrive in Bucks County, primarily from England, Wales, and Germany. These settlers were attracted to the fertile land and natural resources of the area. They established prosperous farming communities and built mills along the county's many creeks and rivers, utilizing water power to grind grain and saw lumber.

During the American Revolution, Bucks County played a significant role. It was the site of several important battles and skirmishes, including the Battle of Crooked Billet in 1778. The county's strategic location along the Delaware River made it a crucial crossing point for troops and supplies.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Bucks County underwent significant economic and social changes. Industrialization brought new opportunities, and the county experienced growth in sectors such as manufacturing and textiles. The development of transportation infrastructure, including railways and canals, further propelled the county's economic progress. Bucks County also became a popular destination for artists and writers seeking inspiration in its picturesque landscapes and quaint towns.

Today, Bucks County continues to thrive as a vibrant and diverse community. Its rich history is preserved in numerous historical sites and museums, attracting tourists and residents alike. The county remains an important cultural and economic hub in Pennsylvania, offering a blend of rural charm and modern amenities.

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

  • 1682 - William Penn receives land grant for Pennsylvania from King Charles II.
  • 1682 - Bucks County is established as one of the original counties in Pennsylvania.
  • 1684 - First courthouse in Bucks County is built in Fallsington.
  • 1711 - Bucks County's first jail is constructed in Bristol.
  • 1776 - Bucks County residents play a significant role in the American Revolution, with the Battle of Trenton fought nearby.
  • 1812 - The Doylestown Courthouse is built, which becomes the county seat.
  • 1827 - The first steam-powered mill is constructed in Bucks County.
  • 1850 - The Delaware Canal is completed, connecting Bucks County to Philadelphia.
  • 1893 - The first electric trolley line is established in Bucks County, revolutionizing transportation.
  • 1938 - Bucks County Playhouse opens in New Hope, becoming a renowned theater venue.
  • 1979 - Washington Crossing Historic Park is established, commemorating George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River.
  • 1989 - Bucks County Community College opens its Upper Bucks Campus in Perkasie.