U.S. Courthouse, Post Office and Customs House
a.k.a. U.S. Federal Building
Main St. at 2nd St., Newport, VT Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
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.
Vermont was the first state to ban slavery through legislative action: In 1777, Vermont passed a law that prohibited slavery within the state. This made Vermont the first state to ban slavery through legislative action.
The county played a significant role in the logging industry during the 19th century, with its vast forests providing valuable timber for construction and trade. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s further stimulated economic growth, as it facilitated the transportation of lumber and other goods. Orleans County also became known for its agricultural productivity, with many farmers cultivating crops such as potatoes, dairy products, and maple syrup.
During the early 20th century, the county saw a decline in logging due to the depletion of natural resources and competition from other regions. However, it experienced a revival in the tourism industry, capitalizing on its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Lake Willoughby, one of Vermont's most beloved lakes, and its surrounding natural attractions, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and winter activities, have attracted visitors from across the country.
Today, Orleans County continues to be deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage while embracing the economic opportunities brought by tourism and outdoor activities. With its charming small towns, beautiful landscapes, and close-knit communities, the county attracts both residents and visitors who appreciate its historical significance, natural beauty, and rural way of life.
Orleans County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Orleans County, Vermont.
- 1761 - Orleans County is granted by Benning Wentworth, Governor of New Hampshire, to settlers from Connecticut and Massachusetts.
- 1791 - Vermont becomes the 14th state.
- 1792 - Orleans County is officially recognized as a county within Vermont.
- 1799 - Barton is settled by Ebenezer and Jeduthan Barton.
- 1810 - Craftsbury is incorporated as a town.
- 1818 - Troy is established as a separate town from Newport.
- 1840 - Irasburg is incorporated as a town.
- 1860 - Coventry is incorporated as a town.
- 1866 - The Vermont legislature authorizes the formation of a town from parts of Charleston, Coventry, and Irasburg, giving birth to Orleans.
- 1881 - The National Standard Paper Mill is established in Island Pond.
- 1913 - Lowell is incorporated as a town.
- 1921 - Jay is incorporated as a town.
- 1959 - The Interstate 91 highway is completed, connecting the county to the rest of Vermont and New Hampshire.
- 1982 - The Jay Peak Resort opens, becoming a popular tourist destination.
- 1995 - The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail is established, offering recreational opportunities to residents and visitors.