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Start of the Postal System
Benjamin Franklin formed a postal system in the United States. Riders would carry letters during the night. The survival of the colonists depended on Information getting where it needed to be quickly. -
Franklin appointed first Postmaster General
After forming the Postal System, congress appointed Benjamin Franklin as the first Postmaster General. -
American Stamps are Made and Sent to Stores
Government registered Stamps are sent out to merchants in New York. The first stamp had the image of Benjamin Franklin. -
The Pony Express
The Pony Express was revolutionary to mail delivery time. It was started by William Russel, Alexander Majors, and William Waddles in 1960. It was at that time the fastest path for mail to cross the nation. It worked on a horse and rider relay system. It was ended in 1861 as funds could not be steadily gained. -
Forming of The General Postal Union
The General Postal Union was formed in 1874. They regulate laws and regulations for post services in many countries. Today it is called the Universal Postal Union. -
Rural Free Delivery
Rural Free Delivery (RFD) was formed in 1896. It allowed for mail and packages to be delivered directly to a household, Instead of a person walking long distances to get mail. -
The Parcel Post
The Parcel Post was started in 1913. It allowed for parcels to be sent in the mail. Parcels were too heavy to be sent, so the Parcel Post became an instant success. -
First Regulated Airmail
The First Regulated Airmail was established in 1918. If you were to send something with airmail, at least one leg of it's journey is on plane. This was more efficient. -
ZIP Codes Introduced
In 1968 the first ZIP codes were introduced. These are area codes for each cities post office. They were used to speed up finding addresses. -
Self Adhesive Stamps Introduced Nationwide
In 1992 self adhesive stamps were introduced. They immediately sold very well. This way people didn't have to lick stamps for them to stick.
