Historical Marker

Grafton Post Office

Historical marker location:
260 W Main St, Grafton, West Virginia
( Marker is at the intersection of West Main Street (U.S. 119) and Beech Street (U.S. 119), on the left when traveling west on West Main Street.)

  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 West Virginia.
The New River Gorge Bridge, located in Fayetteville, West Virginia, is the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. It was completed in 1977 and spans 3,030 feet across the New River Gorge.
West Virginia random facts
Taylor County is a county located in the north-central part of West Virginia. Its history dates back to the early 1800s when settlers first arrived in the area. The county was established in 1844 and named after John Taylor, a United States Senator. The region was primarily rural and agricultural, with farming and the lumber industry being the main sources of income for its residents.

During the American Civil War, Taylor County saw its fair share of conflict. The Battle of Philippi, which took place in nearby Barbour County, was a significant event in the area. Union forces led by General George B. McClellan defeated the Confederate army in this battle, marking one of the first Union victories of the war.

Over the years, Taylor County experienced growth and development. The discovery of natural resources, such as coal and natural gas, played a crucial role in its economic development, leading to the establishment of mining and related industries. Railroads were also built in the county, connecting it to other regions and further promoting growth.

Today, Taylor County continues to thrive as a rural community with a rich history and natural beauty. Its economy has diversified over the years, encompassing industries such as agriculture, timber, manufacturing, and tourism. The county's historical sites, as well as recreational opportunities in its parks and forests, attract visitors from near and far. The residents of Taylor County take pride in their heritage and work towards preserving and promoting the county's unique history for future generations.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Taylor County, West Virginia.

  • 1784: Taylor County is formed from parts of Harrison County.
  • 1844: The first courthouse in Taylor County is built in Pruntytown.
  • 1861-1865: Taylor County residents serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1901: The West Virginia Industrial School is established in Pruntytown.
  • 1919: The first high school in Taylor County opens in Grafton.
  • 1925: The Grafton National Cemetery, a burial ground for veterans, is established.
  • 1933: Tygart Lake State Park is created, including the construction of Tygart Dam.
  • 1963: The International Mother's Day Shrine is dedicated in Grafton.
  • 2018: The Taylor County Public Library opens a new building in Grafton.