Historical Marker

Old Post Office

Historical marker location:
FM 187, Old Waresville, Texas
( From Utopia, take FM 187, Old Waresville (westward).)
Marker installed: 1963
Marker size: RTHL medallion

  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.

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.

post office
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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.
Texas random facts
Uvalde County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich and varied history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches, who hunted and camped along the rivers and springs of the region. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries began to settle in the area and establish missions, bringing with them a growing Hispanic population.

In the mid-19th century, Uvalde County experienced significant settlement and development fueled by the expansion of the cattle industry. Many ranchers and cowboys moved to the area, attracted by the abundant water sources and fertile grazing land. The establishment of the Great Western Cattle Trail in the late 1860s further reinforced Uvalde County's importance as a hub for the cattle industry.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Uvalde County played a significant role in various historical events. It was the birthplace of John Nance "Cactus Jack" Garner, who served as the Vice President of the United States under Franklin D. Roosevelt. The area was also a center of political activism during the Mexican Revolution, attracting prominent figures such as Francisco Madero and Pancho Villa.

In more recent years, Uvalde County has continued to evolve and grow. The development of oil and gas industries in the mid-20th century brought economic prosperity to the region. Today, Uvalde County is a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, ranching, and recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and nature tourism, that continue to attract visitors from around the world.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Uvalde County, Texas.

  • 1850: Uvalde County established as a county of the Republic of Texas
  • 1855: First permanent settlers arrive in the area
  • 1866: Fort Inge established as a military outpost
  • 1881: Railroad reaches Uvalde, spurring growth and development
  • 1883: City of Uvalde officially incorporated
  • 1891: The Uvalde Asphalt Paving Company is founded
  • 1900: Uvalde becomes a center for farming and ranching
  • 1914: Uvalde County Courthouse is completed
  • 1940: Garner Field established as a training facility during World War II
  • 1981: John Nance Garner Museum opens in Uvalde
  • 1998: Winter Garden Region becomes a major grape-growing area
  • 2010: Population of Uvalde County reaches over 26,000