Childress Post Office Building
Historical marker location:The Childress Post Office was established in 1887, and in 1935 this post office building was constructed on the site formely occupied by the First Methodist Church. Reflecting the Spanish Colonial style of architecture, it features round-arched windows, a parapet above the main entrance, a 7-bay facade, round transom, and decorative brickwork. In 1981, when the post office relocated, the building was purchased for use as a museum.
Recorded Texas Historical Landmark-1991
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.
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
The early days of Childress County were marked by the arrival of pioneers and settlers who established ranches and farms. The region's main industry was agriculture, with cattle and cotton farming being the primary sources of income. The county became an important stop along the Great Western Cattle Trail, which connected Texas ranches with markets up north.
In the late 19th century, the arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway brought significant growth and development to Childress County. The railroad allowed for easier transportation of goods and brought an influx of new settlers to the area. The town of Childress, the county seat, was established and quickly became a hub for commerce and trade.
The 20th century brought further progress to Childress County. Oil was discovered in the area in the 1920s, leading to the establishment of oil fields and increased economic activity. The county also saw advancements in education and infrastructure, with the construction of schools, roads, and other public facilities.
Today, Childress County continues to be a primarily agricultural community, with cattle ranching, cotton farming, and oil production being the main industries. The county offers a peaceful rural lifestyle and is proud of its history and heritage.
Childress County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Childress County, Texas.
- 1876: Childress County is officially established by the Texas legislature.
- 1887: The first post office is established in the county.
- 1890: The town of Childress is founded as the county seat.
- 1891: The Fort Worth and Denver Railway reaches Childress County, boosting economic growth.
- 1898: Childress County experiences a boom in cotton production.
- 1910: The town of Carey is incorporated.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits Childress County, leading to a decline in population and economic hardships.
- 1936: A severe drought leads to further challenges for the county.
- 1940s: Oil and gas production helps revitalize the local economy.
- 1980s: Childress County experiences economic growth due to agriculture and energy industries.
- 2000s: The county continues to thrive with improved infrastructure and diverse economic sectors.