Edom Store and Post Office
a.k.a. John Chrisman Store; Myres & Co.; VDHR File No. 082-0112
5375 Jesse Bennett Way, Edom, VA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
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.
The first African American governor in the United States, L. Douglas Wilder, was elected in Virginia in 1989.
During the American Revolution, Rockingham County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Many of its residents were supporters of the cause and actively participated in various military campaigns. Following the war, the county experienced rapid growth and development, with agriculture becoming a key economic driver. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for farming, and crops such as wheat, corn, and tobacco became important commodities.
In the early 19th century, Rockingham County saw the rise of industry. Mills and factories were established along the Shenandoah River, harnessing its water power to drive machinery. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s further stimulated economic growth, improving transportation and bringing new opportunities for trade and commerce. The county became known for its manufacturing, particularly in the textile, furniture, and iron industries.
In the 20th century, Rockingham County continued to evolve with the changing times. The agricultural sector expanded, with dairy farms and poultry production becoming major contributors to the local economy. The county also experienced suburbanization as the population grew and urban areas expanded. Today, Rockingham County remains a vibrant community, combining its rural roots with modern amenities and industries. It is known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and a strong sense of community.
Rockingham County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rockingham County, Virginia.
- 1727 - Rockingham County is established in the Colony of Virginia.
- 1732 - The first European settlers arrive in the area.
- 1778 - The town of Harrisonburg is founded as the county seat.
- 1784 - Rockingham County's first courthouse is built in Harrisonburg.
- 1812 - Rockingham County becomes part of the newly formed state of Virginia.
- 1852 - The Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad reaches Harrisonburg, boosting economic development.
- 1862 - Rockingham County sees significant battles and skirmishes during the American Civil War.
- 1870 - The first public school in Rockingham County opens.
- 1929 - The Byrd Theatre in Harrisonburg opens, becoming a popular entertainment venue.
- 1930s - Agriculture, particularly poultry farming, becomes a major industry in Rockingham County.
- 1962 - Bridgewater College is established in Rockingham County.
- 1994 - Massanutten Resort, a popular tourist destination, opens in Rockingham County.