Ware Neck Store and Post Office
a.k.a. VDHR #036-5016; Nuttall's Country Store
6495 VA 629, Ware Neck, VA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
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.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Virginia played a significant role in the American Civil War. It was the site of many major battles, including the Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Fredericksburg, and the Battle of Appomattox Court House, where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant.
During the American Revolutionary War, Gloucester County played a significant role. The county was a hotbed of revolutionary sentiment, with many residents actively supporting the cause for independence. Built in 1774, the Court Green served as the center of government during the War. The Battle of the Hook, fought in 1781, took place in Gloucester County and was an important victory for the Continental Army.
In the early 19th century, Gloucester County experienced economic growth and cultural development. The county's prime location along the Chesapeake Bay and York River made it a hub for maritime trade and shipbuilding. Gloucester also became known for its several family-owned businesses and successful agricultural practices, including market gardening and fishing. The construction of the Severn River Bridge in 1929 connected Gloucester County to neighboring Mathews County and further facilitated economic growth.
In the 20th century, Gloucester County transitioned from its agricultural roots to a more diversified economy. The construction of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in 1964 and the opening of the Coleman Bridge in 1952 provided easier access to the region, further facilitating growth. Today, Gloucester County is known for its historic charm, natural beauty, and strong community spirit. It continues to attract residents and visitors with its historical sites, recreational activities, and thriving local businesses.
Gloucester County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Gloucester County, Virginia.
- 1651: Gloucester County, Virginia is established by the Virginia General Assembly.
- 1676: Bacon's Rebellion, an armed rebellion against British colonial rule in Virginia, takes place in Gloucester County.
- 1776: Gloucester County residents actively participate in the American Revolutionary War.
- 1823: The Virginia General Assembly establishes the Gloucester Female Academy, later renamed the Gloucester Institute.
- 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Gloucester County is occupied by Union forces and becomes a staging area for military operations.
- 1889: The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway is completed, bringing increased economic opportunities to Gloucester County.
- 1926: The George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, connecting Gloucester County to Yorktown, is completed.
- 1973: The county seat of Gloucester County is relocated to Gloucester Courthouse.
- 2003: Gloucester County celebrates its 350th anniversary.