Clarksville Federal Building/Post Office/Customs House

Historical marker location:

200 S 2nd St, Clarkesville, Tennessee

( Marker is on South 2nd Street, on the right when traveling south.)

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.

architecture houses residential buildings

The largest underground lake in the United States is located in Tennessee. The Lost Sea, located in Sweetwater, Tennessee, covers over four acres and is home to a variety of unusual creatures, including blind fish and crayfish.

About Montgomery County

Montgomery County, located in the state of Tennessee, has a rich and diverse history. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Chickasaw, until European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century. In 1780, James Robertson established the first settlement, known as the Old Town, near what is now known as Port Royal State Park.

The county was officially formed in 1796 and named in honor of John Montgomery, a soldier who fought in the American Revolutionary War. It quickly became an important transportation hub, with the Red River and the newly constructed Cumberland River providing easy access for trade and commerce. In 1804, the city of Clarksville, named after General George Rogers Clark, was established as the county seat.

During the Civil War, Montgomery County played a significant role. Located along the Cumberland River, Clarksville was a strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. The area saw numerous skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Fort Donelson in nearby Stewart County. The city was occupied by Union troops for much of the war, serving as a supply depot and base of operations.

After the war, Montgomery County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further enhanced the county's economic prospects. Industries such as tobacco processing, furniture manufacturing, and clothing production flourished. In the early 20th century, Austin Peay State College (now Austin Peay State University) was established in Clarksville, making it an educational center in the region.

Today, Montgomery County is a thriving community with a diverse economy, vibrant arts and culture scene, and a strong military presence due to the nearby Fort Campbell Army base. The county's historical significance remains evident in its many historic sites and landmarks, preserving its past and serving as a reminder of the rich history that shaped the area.

Montgomery County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Montgomery County, Tennessee.

1796 - Montgomery County was established on December 17 as part of the State of Tennessee.
1797 - The town of Clarksville was founded as the county seat.
1825 - The county's population reached 7,657 residents.
1861-1865 - Montgomery County, like many areas in Tennessee, was heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
1890 - Montgomery County's population grew to 30,126.
1926 - Austin Peay State Teachers College (now Austin Peay State University) was established in Clarksville.
1950s-1960s - Montgomery County experienced significant population growth due to the establishment of Fort Campbell military base.
1978 - Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library opened its doors.
1980 - The county's population reached 98,371.
1999 - The county celebrated its bicentennial anniversary.
2021 - Montgomery County continues to grow and develop, with a population of over 208,000 residents.