Lott's Tavern & Post Office
Historical marker location: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.
South Carolina was the site of the first battle of the Civil War. In April 1861, Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter, a federal fort located in Charleston Harbor. The bombardment lasted for 34 hours and resulted in the surrender of the fort to the Confederates.
During the Revolutionary War, Edgefield played a significant role, with its citizens actively involved in the fight for independence. Notably, the infamous Battle of Musgrove Mill took place in the county in 1780, where local militia successfully repelled a British attack. Edgefield County also produced several influential political figures, including several governors and prominent politicians.
In the early 19th century, Edgefield became known as the "Home of Southern Statesmen" due to its many influential politicians who hailed from the area. The county had a strong agricultural economy, with cotton production being the primary industry. The region was also notorious for its high number of duels, which often settled political disputes.
As the 19th century progressed, Edgefield County experienced significant social and economic changes. The expansion of railroads and the decline of the plantation system, coupled with the aftermath of the Civil War, led to widespread poverty in the region. However, Edgefield County persevered, and by the 20th century, new industries and improvements in infrastructure helped revive the local economy.
Today, Edgefield County is a vibrant community that celebrates its heritage and maintains a balance between agriculture, industrial development, and historical preservation. The county's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites, including the Old Edgefield District Genealogical Society and the National Wild Turkey Federation Museum. With a strong sense of community and a dedication to preserving its past, Edgefield County continues to thrive and evolve while honoring its roots.
Edgefield County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Edgefield County, South Carolina.
- 1785: Edgefield County is established as a part of Ninety-Six District.
- 1786: Edgefield becomes its own district with its county seat in Edgefield Village.
- 1812: The town of Edgefield is incorporated.
- 1825: Construction begins on the Edgefield Railroad.
- 1830s-1850s: Edgefield thrives as a center of cotton production and political influence.
- 1861-1865: Edgefield County sends many troops to fight in the Civil War.
- 1871: The town of Edgefield is reincorporated.
- Early 1900s: Edgefield suffers economically due to the decline of agriculture.
- 1930s: The Works Progress Administration (WPA) helps to improve infrastructure and create jobs in Edgefield County.
- Present: Edgefield County is known for its historic charm, agriculture, and outdoor recreational opportunities.