Historical Marker

Post Office and General Store

Historical marker location:
Latta, South Carolina
( Marker is on West Main Street (State Highway 917) near North Marion Street, on the right when traveling west.)

(Latta, S.C.)

  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 town of Cheraw, located in northeastern South Carolina, was once home to one of the largest Jewish communities in the state. Many of the town's Jewish residents were merchants and peddlers who played a significant role in the economic development of the area.
South Carolina random facts
Dillon County, South Carolina has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1910. The county was named after James W. Dillon, a prominent local citizen and leader in the South Carolina Railroad Company. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pee Dee and Catawba tribes, until European settlers arrived in the late 18th century.

During the mid-19th century, Dillon County experienced significant growth and development due to the construction of railroads, which brought new settlers and facilitated the transportation of goods and resources. The county became an important transportation hub, connecting several major cities in South Carolina. This led to the establishment of new businesses, such as sawmills and cotton mills, which further fueled economic growth.

In the early 20th century, the county faced challenges and changes brought about by the decline of the cotton industry and the Great Depression. However, Dillon County persevered through these difficult times and continued to grow, diversifying its economy by embracing agricultural products like tobacco and strawberries.

In recent years, Dillon County has focused on revitalizing its downtown area and promoting tourism. The county is known for its rich natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing in the nearby Little Pee Dee River. With its diverse history and commitment to growth, Dillon County remains a vibrant community and an important part of South Carolina's heritage.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Dillon County, South Carolina.

  • 1887: Dillon County is established by the South Carolina General Assembly.
  • 1888: The first courthouse in Dillon County is completed.
  • 1904: The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad is extended into Dillon County, boosting economic development.
  • 1909: The town of Dillon is incorporated.
  • 1910: The town of Latta is incorporated.
  • 1925: The Dillon County Hospital opens, providing healthcare services to the community.
  • 1933: The South Carolina Highway Patrol is established in Dillon County.
  • 1976: Dillon County celebrates the United States Bicentennial with various events and festivities.
  • 1999: South of the Border, a popular tourist attraction, opens at the Dillon County and Robeson County border.
  • 2001: The newly constructed McLeod Medical Center Dillon opens, replacing the former Dillon County Hospital.