U.S. Post Office
50 W. Chestnut St., Lancaster, PA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1981.
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.
The first successful commercially produced automobile in America was built in Philadelphia in 1895 by the Duryea brothers.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Lancaster County became known for its thriving agricultural industry. Its fertile soil and mild climate made it ideal for farming, and the county became a leading producer of wheat, corn, and livestock. With the advent of the Pennsylvania Canal and the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad in the 19th century, Lancaster County's agricultural products were easily transported to urban markets, further bolstering its economy.
In the early 20th century, Lancaster County experienced significant industrial growth, particularly in the city of Lancaster. The construction of railroad lines and the expansion of factories contributed to the county's economic prosperity. The county also gained recognition for its manufacturing sector, producing items such as silk textiles, cigars, and furniture.
Today, Lancaster County is known for its rich history and preserved heritage. It is often referred to as the "Garden Spot of America" due to its picturesque landscapes, traditional Amish communities, and thriving tourism industry. The county attracts visitors from around the world who come to experience its historical sites, charming small towns, and delicious Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
Lancaster County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
- 1709: Lancaster County was established by William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania.
- 1730: The city of Lancaster was founded as the county seat.
- 1751: Lancaster became the capital of Pennsylvania, serving as the seat of government until 1799.
- 1777: During the American Revolutionary War, Lancaster was briefly the capital of the United States when the Continental Congress fled Philadelphia.
- 1800s: Lancaster became known for its thriving agricultural industry, with a focus on farming and crop cultivation.
- 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg, a significant event in the American Civil War, took place just outside of Lancaster County.
- 1900s: Lancaster County experienced a growth in manufacturing, particularly in the production of textiles, steel, and tobacco products.
- 1957: The Amish Farm and House, a popular tourist attraction showcasing Amish lifestyle and culture, was established in Lancaster County.
- 1980s: The tourism industry in Lancaster County began to flourish, attracting visitors with its picturesque countryside and Amish traditions.