Historical Marker

Chesterfield Post Office

Historical marker location:
200 E Main St, Chesterfield, South Carolina
( Marker is at the intersection of East Main Street (State Highway 9) and Scotch Road, on the right when traveling east on East Main Street.)
Marker installed: 2013

  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
Chesterfield County, South Carolina has a rich and diverse history that spans hundreds of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Pee Dee and Cheraw tribes. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and the county was officially established in 1785. It was named in honor of Philip Dormer Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, a distinguished British statesman.

During the American Revolutionary War, Chesterfield County played a significant role. The Battle of Hanging Rock, which took place in 1780, was a key event. American patriots successfully defended the county against a British invasion force. The battle is still commemorated today with events and reenactments.

In the 19th century, Chesterfield County experienced an economic boom with the rise of the cotton industry. Large plantations were established, worked by enslaved African Americans. The county was also a major hub for tobacco production. The Civil War had a significant impact on the area, with many battles fought nearby, including the Battle of Rivers' Bridge in 1865.

In the early 20th century, Chesterfield County became more industrialized. Textile mills were built, providing employment opportunities for local residents. The county has since diversified its economy, with sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism playing important roles. Today, Chesterfield County is known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Chesterfield County, South Carolina.

  • 1732 - Chesterfield County is established as the northeastern district of South Carolina.
  • 1769 - The county is officially formed and named after the fourth Earl of Chesterfield, Philip Stanhope.
  • 1781 - During the American Revolutionary War, Chesterfield County witnesses skirmishes between British and American forces.
  • 1804 - Cheraw, the county seat, is incorporated as a town.
  • 1861-1865 - Chesterfield County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many joining the Confederate Army.
  • 1889 - The Chesterfield and Lancaster Railroad is completed, boosting trade and transportation in the county.
  • 1910 - The county's population reaches its peak at over 37,000 residents.
  • 1933 - Reynolds Colored High School is established, becoming one of the first high schools for African Americans in the state.
  • 1968 - Chesterfield County's school system is integrated following national desegregation efforts.
  • 1996 - The Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge is established, providing conservation and recreational opportunities.