Historical Marker

Old U.S. Post Office

Historical marker location:
703 E Main St, Jefferson City, Tennessee
( Marker is on East Main Street, on the right when traveling east.)

1900s

  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 Tennessee.
The city of Memphis, Tennessee, was the site of the assassination of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968. The Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King was staying, is now the National Civil Rights Museum.
Tennessee random facts
Jefferson County, located in eastern Tennessee, is rich in history dating back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Cherokee, who played a significant role in shaping the region's culture and heritage. European settlement began in the mid-18th century, with pioneers attracted by the area's fertile land and abundant natural resources.

In the late 1790s, Jefferson County was established as part of the newly formed state of Tennessee. The county was named after Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, in recognition of his support for the state during its early development.

During the 19th century, Jefferson County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s boosted the local economy by providing improved transportation for goods and people. The county became known for its agricultural production, especially in tobacco, corn, wheat, and livestock.

The Civil War had a significant impact on Jefferson County, as it did on many areas of the South. The county was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The region experienced skirmishes, raids, and troop movements throughout the conflict. Despite this, Jefferson County managed to recover and rebuild in the years following the war, transitioning into a more industrialized society.

Throughout the 20th century, Jefferson County continued to evolve. The county benefitted from the construction of the Douglas Dam and reservoir in the 1940s, which provided valuable electricity and flood control to the area. The development of new industries, such as manufacturing and tourism, also helped to diversify the local economy. Today, Jefferson County is a vibrant community that honors its heritage while embracing modern advancements and opportunities.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Jefferson County, Tennessee.

  • 1792 - Jefferson County is established as part of the Southwest Territory.
  • 1794 - The town of Dandridge is founded as the county seat.
  • 1796 - Tennessee becomes a state, and Jefferson County becomes part of it.
  • 1830s - The construction of the Louisville and Nashville Turnpike through Jefferson County brings economic growth.
  • 1854 - The East Tennessee and Virginia Railroad opens in Jefferson County.
  • 1861-1865 - Jefferson County is divided during the American Civil War.
  • 1945 - The Cherokee Dam is completed, providing electricity and flood control for the area.
  • 1982 - The Jefferson County Courthouse, originally built in 1845, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2006 - Douglas Lake, a popular recreational area, becomes part of Jefferson County.