First Post Office
Historical marker location:ACROSS THE STREET, SOUTH, WAS THE FIRST BUILDING ERECTED TO HOUSE THE JUNCTION POST OFFICE. JUNCTION'S FIRST POSTMASTER, MRS. HARRIET KOUNTZ, APPOINTED 1876, AT FIRST KEPT THE MAIL IN HER HOME. IN 1879, HER HUSBAND DR. EZEKIEL KOUNTZ, BUILT A POST OFFICE, DRUGSTORE,AND GENERAL MERCANTILE HOUSE ON THE SQUARE. LUMBER WAS HAULED FROM AUSTIN. MRS. KOUNTZ MOVED THE OFFICE HERE AND SERVED UNTIL 1881. DR. KOUNTZ, FIRST COUNTY CLERK OF KIMBLE COUNTY OFFICE, USED STORE AS COUNTY OFFICE UNTIL COURTHOUSE WAS BUILT NEARBY. OLD STORE WAS DISMANTLED 1911.
(1966)
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 state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
The county was officially organized in 1876 and named after George C. Kimble, a famous Texan who fought in the Texas Revolution. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kimble County experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were built, connecting the county to other parts of Texas, which facilitated the transportation of goods and people.
The discovery of silver and lead in the county drew even more people to the area, resulting in the establishment of several mining communities. For a time, the county was a hub of mining activity, greatly contributing to its economic prosperity. However, as the mining industry declined in the early 20th century, the county shifted its focus to agriculture and ranching.
Today, Kimble County continues to embrace its rural character and agricultural heritage. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the beautiful South Llano River State Park. The county's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, including livestock, hunting, and pecan farming. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and thriving rural lifestyle, Kimble County remains a charming part of Texas.
Kimble County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Kimble County, Texas.
- 1850: Kimble County is created from parts of Bexar, Gillespie, and Mason counties.
- 1869: The town of Kimbleville is established as the county seat.
- 1873: The name of Kimbleville is changed to Junction City.
- 1882: The town is officially incorporated as Junction City.
- 1894: The name of Junction City is changed to Junction.
- 1901: The Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway reaches Junction, leading to an increase in population and economic growth.
- 1927: A devastating flood hits Junction, causing significant damage to the town.
- 1949: The county seat is moved from Junction to its current location in Junction City.
- 2001: The Kimble County Historical Museum opens in Junction to preserve the county's history.