Historical Marker

U.S. Post Office and Courthouse

Historical marker location:
83 Broad Street, Charleston, South Carolina
( Marker is at the intersection of Broad Street and Meeting Street, on the right when traveling east on Broad Street.)
Marker installed: 1976

  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 South Carolina.
The first successful English settlement in South Carolina was established in 1670 in what is now known as Charleston. The settlement was named Charles Towne in honor of King Charles II of England.
South Carolina random facts
Charleston County, located in the southern part of South Carolina, has a rich and storied history that dates back centuries. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, such as the Cusabo and the Kiawah, who thrived along the coast. European exploration began in the late 16th century when Spanish, French, and English expeditions arrived.

In 1670, the English established the first permanent European settlement in the region, known as Charles Towne. The settlement quickly grew and became an important trading port, attracting colonists from England, Scotland, and Germany. By the early 18th century, Charleston had become one of the wealthiest and largest cities in the American colonies.

During the Revolutionary War, Charleston played a pivotal role as a major British stronghold. In 1780, the city was attacked and captured by British forces, leading to a period of occupation until 1782. However, Charlestonians' resilience and contributions to the war effort were crucial in gaining independence.

In the 19th century, Charleston County experienced tremendous growth and prosperity, driven by industries such as rice and indigo plantations, and later, the cotton industry. This prosperity relied heavily on enslaved African labor, leading to significant social, economic, and cultural impacts on the county. The rise of the abolitionist movement and the ensuing Civil War would later shape Charleston's history and lead to its ultimate transformation.

Today, Charleston County is a diverse and vibrant region, known for its historic charm, beautiful architecture, and thriving tourism industry. It continues to honor and preserve its rich history while embracing progress and growth in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and technology.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Charleston County, South Carolina.

  • 1670 - Charleston County established when English settlers arrive and establish Charles Town.
  • 1718 - Blackbeard the pirate is killed off the coast of Charleston County.
  • 1776 - Charleston County residents sign the South Carolina Constitution.
  • 1861 - American Civil War begins with the bombardment of Fort Sumter in Charleston County.
  • 1871 - First public school in Charleston County opens.
  • 1927 - Ravenel Bridge, connecting Charleston County to Mount Pleasant, is completed.
  • 1989 - Hurricane Hugo hits Charleston County, causing significant damage.
  • 2000 - Charleston County population reaches over 309,969 people.
  • 2015 - Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church shooting in Charleston County.