Historical Marker

McCullough Log House and Post Office

Historical marker location:
Delta, Utah
( Marker is on West Main Street, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1973

Utah Historic Site

  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
Utah is home to the world's largest man-made excavation, the Kennecott Copper Mine. The mine produces copper, gold, silver, and other minerals and is located southwest of Salt Lake City.
Utah random facts
Millard County, Utah, located in central Utah, has a rich and vibrant history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ute, Paiute, and Goshute peoples. These tribes relied on hunting, gathering, and farming for sustenance and had a deep connection to the land.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area. In 1851, Mormon pioneers under the leadership of Brigham Young established the small settlement of Fillmore as the first territorial capital of Utah. Fillmore quickly grew, becoming a bustling hub for trade, agriculture, and government affairs. It served as the capital until 1856 when it was relocated to Salt Lake City.

Millard County played an important role in the development of the region's infrastructure. In the late 19th century, the Utah Central Railroad completed a line through the county, bringing increased opportunities for transportation and trade. Additionally, the development of irrigation systems facilitated the growth of agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops like wheat, barley, and fruit.

Throughout its history, Millard County has faced challenges, including droughts, economic downturns, and social conflicts. However, the residents of the county have always shown resilience and determination in overcoming these obstacles. Today, Millard County continues to thrive as an agricultural and mining region, preserving its unique history while embracing modern advancements.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Millard County, Utah.

  • 1847: Mormon pioneers arrive in the area and establish several settlements
  • 1851: Millard County is officially organized, named after President Millard Fillmore
  • 1852: Fillmore is designated as the county seat
  • 1857: The Johnston's Army conflict occurs, temporarily interrupting settlement activities
  • 1861: Construction begins on the Territorial Statehouse, which becomes the Capitol building of Utah
  • 1871: The Utah Central Railroad reaches Millard County, enabling easier transportation and economic development
  • 1877: A severe drought leads to the formation of the Deseret Irrigation Company to manage water resources
  • 1890: Millard County experiences a mining boom, with the discovery of gold and other valuable minerals
  • 1909: The completion of the Millard County Courthouse in Fillmore
  • 1924: Abraham irrigation project is completed, enhancing agricultural productivity in the county
  • 1950s-1960s: Uranium mining becomes a prominent industry in Millard County
  • 1990s-2000s: Wind power development begins, with the establishment of multiple wind farms