National Register Listing

US Post Office-New Rockford

a.k.a. New Rockford Post Office

821 N. First Ave., New Rockford, ND
Local significance of the building:
Community Planning And Development; Art; Economics; Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
  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.

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.

community planning and development art economics politics government architecture post office
North Dakota is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Kevin Cramer in North Dakota: People, Places, and Traditions
Eddy County, North Dakota, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sioux and Mandan tribes, who relied on the land's resources for their livelihood. European settlers began to arrive in the mid-19th century, drawn by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming.

Eddy County was officially established in 1885 and named after Ezra B. Eddy, a prominent politician and businessman in the region. The county's early years were marked by the rapid growth of agriculture, with settlers cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, and barley. The construction of railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries further fueled the county's development, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.

The early 20th century saw significant advancements in technology and infrastructure in Eddy County. The introduction of electric power and telephone services improved daily life for residents, while the growth of towns like New Rockford and Sheyenne brought new businesses and opportunities. World War II brought change as well, with many residents participating in the war effort and the county experiencing a decrease in population.

In recent years, Eddy County has focused on maintaining and preserving its agricultural heritage while also embracing new industries. The county boasts vast open spaces, scenic landscapes, and a strong sense of community. Today, Eddy County is not only known for its thriving agricultural industry but also for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and historical attractions that highlight its unique past.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Eddy County, North Dakota.

  • 1818 - The area that would become Eddy County is explored by fur traders and trappers.
  • 1865 - The first permanent Euro-American settler, Thomas Durfee, arrives in the area.
  • 1874 - Eddy County is officially established, named after Ezra B. Eddy, a sergeant in the American Civil War.
  • 1883 - The Great Northern Railway reaches the county, spurring growth and development.
  • 1885 - The town of New Rockford is founded and becomes the county seat.
  • 1890 - Census records show a population of over 3,500 residents in Eddy County.
  • 1924 - The Sheyenne River is dammed to create the New Rockford Dam, providing hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities.
  • 1941-1945 - Eddy County experiences an economic boom during World War II, with increased agricultural production and the establishment of military training camps in the area.
  • 1972 - The Eddy County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1980 - The population of Eddy County reaches its peak at over 6,000 residents.
  • 2002 - Eddy County celebrates its 125th anniversary with various events and community gatherings.
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