Historical Marker

Rolling Post Office

Historical marker location:
Broadnax, Virginia
( Marker is on Tobacco Heritage Trail, 1.3 miles east of Railroad Street, on the left when traveling east.)

  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.

Audiobooks about the history of Virginia.
Virginia is known as the "Mother of Presidents" because eight U.S. presidents were born there. Additionally, two more presidents, William Henry Harrison and Zachary Taylor, were born in what is now Virginia before it became a state.
Virginia random facts
Brunswick County, Virginia has a rich and diverse history dating back to its establishment in 1720. The county was named after the Duchy of Brunswick-Lüneburg in Germany, with its original boundaries stretching from the Appomattox River to the North Carolina border. In its early years, Brunswick County played a significant role in the colony's tobacco industry, which heavily influenced its economy and settlement patterns.

During the American Revolution, Brunswick County was a hub of activity. Many residents served in the Continental Army, and the county saw skirmishes and raids from both British and American forces. The Battle of Fort Christanna in 1781 was a crucial engagement fought between local patriot militias and British troops, leaving a lasting impact on the county's history.

In the 19th century, Brunswick County experienced a boom in agriculture with the introduction of new crops such as cotton and peanuts. The county's fertile soil and ideal growing conditions attracted settlers, leading to the expansion of towns and communities. Additionally, the Meherrin River and the construction of the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad contributed to the county's economic growth.

As time progressed, social changes occurred in Brunswick County. The emancipation of enslaved individuals after the Civil War brought significant transformation to the region. The establishment of schools for former slaves, known as Freedmen's Bureau Schools, helped to improve literacy rates and education in the area.

Today, Brunswick County, Virginia is known for its charming small towns, rich historical heritage, and natural beauty. The county remains an agricultural hub, with farming and forestry as important economic sectors. Residents and visitors can explore various historical sites, including Fort Christanna, to learn about the county's past and appreciate the diverse culture that has shaped Brunswick County into what it is today.

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

  • 1732 - Brunswick County is established by the Virginia House of Burgesses.
  • 1734 - The county courthouse is built.
  • 1754 - The Battle of Great Creek takes place during the French and Indian War.
  • 1774 - Brunswick County residents participate in the Virginia Association protests against the British Parliament's Coercive Acts.
  • 1781 - During the American Revolutionary War, General Lafayette and British troops pass through Brunswick County.
  • 1828 - The Meherrin River is connected to the Roanoke River by the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad.
  • 1861 - Brunswick County citizens vote to secede from the Union and join the Confederacy during the American Civil War.
  • 1916 - The construction of the Lake Gaston Dam begins, forming Lake Gaston.
  • 2004 - Brunswick County wins the Governor's Environmental Excellence Award for its recycling program.