National Register Listing

US Post Office-Hanover

a.k.a. Hanover Post Office

141 Broadway, Hanover, PA
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
  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.

politics government architecture post office
Audiobooks about the history of Pennsylvania.
The first drive-in movie theater in the world opened in Camden, New Jersey, just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, in 1933.
Pennsylvania random facts
York County, Pennsylvania has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1749. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Shawnees. European settlers began to arrive in the early 18th century, primarily of German and Scots-Irish descent. York County was named after York, England, and quickly became an important trading and transportation hub due to its location along the Susquehanna River.

During the American Revolution, York County played a significant role. In 1777, the Continental Congress temporarily moved to York, seeking a safe haven from the British forces occupying Philadelphia. The Articles of Confederation, the precursor to the U.S. Constitution, were drafted in York and later ratified in 1781. York County was also the site of the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863, which marked a turning point in the Civil War. Many historic buildings and landmarks associated with these events can still be found in the county today.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, industrialization transformed York County. The region became known for its manufacturing, especially in the production of agricultural products, automobiles, and textiles. One of the county's most famous companies is the York Barbell Company, which revolutionized the fitness industry with its weightlifting equipment. Many notable figures, including President John F. Kennedy and boxer Muhammad Ali, visited the company's headquarters. Today, York County is still home to a diverse range of manufacturing and industrial companies.

In recent decades, York County has experienced growth and development while also preserving its historical character. The county boasts numerous historic sites and museums, such as the York County History Center and the Agricultural & Industrial Museum, which provide glimpses into its past. Moreover, the charming town of York is renowned for its colonial architecture and hosts popular events like the York Fair, America's first fair. With a mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern amenities, York County continues to be an appealing destination for visitors and residents alike.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of York County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1749 - York County is formed from part of Lancaster County.
  • 1751 - The town of York is officially laid out and becomes the county seat.
  • 1777 - York serves as the temporary capital of the United States while Philadelphia is occupied by the British during the American Revolution.
  • 1800s - The county experiences significant industrial growth, particularly in the iron and railroad industries.
  • 1863 - During the Civil War, the Battle of Gettysburg takes place in neighboring Adams County, resulting in significant casualties in York County.
  • 1903 - The York Peppermint Pattie is invented in York, becoming a popular candy nationwide.
  • 1950s-1960s - York County experiences suburbanization and population growth, with many people moving to the area for employment opportunities.
  • 1973 - The Three Mile Island nuclear accident occurs just south of York County, leading to concerns about radiation exposure.
  • 2000s - The county continues to experience population growth and economic development, with a focus on healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism.