Old Town Main Post Office Exploring the Past and Present

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Post Office Facade
Credit: pexels.com, Post Office Facade

The Old Town Main Post Office is a historic landmark that's been serving the community for over a century. Built in 1914, this stunning building is a prime example of Beaux-Arts architecture.

As you step inside, you'll notice the beautiful high ceilings and grand staircase. The original postal sorting system is still intact, giving you a glimpse into the past.

One of the most impressive features of the building is its stunning lobby. The lobby's intricate details and ornate plasterwork are a testament to the craftsmanship of the era.

The Old Town Main Post Office has undergone several renovations over the years, but it still maintains much of its original charm.

History of the Post Office

The Old Town Main Post Office has a rich history that spans over a century. It was established in the late 19th century, with the first post office opening in 1890.

The post office has been a cornerstone of the community, providing essential services to residents and businesses alike. It's a place where people have come to send letters, packages, and pay bills for generations.

In its early years, the post office was a small, unassuming building that served the growing town. Over time, it expanded to meet the needs of the community, with new buildings and services being added as the town grew.

Early Years

Free stock photo of horse carriage, horses, old town
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of horse carriage, horses, old town

The early years of the Post Office were marked by humble beginnings. It all started in 1639 when the first public postal service was established in England.

The service was initially only available to the wealthy and the government. In 1660, the Post Office Act was passed, making postal services more widely available.

The first post office in the United States was established in 1775. It was located in Philadelphia and was run by Benjamin Franklin.

In 1792, the Post Office Act was passed in the United States, establishing the Post Office Department as a federal agency.

Notable Events

As we explore the history of the post office, there are several notable events that stand out.

The first postal service in the United States was established in 1775 by Benjamin Franklin, who was appointed as the first Postmaster General.

The Pony Express was a mail service that operated from 1860 to 1861, delivering mail across the United States by horseback.

Explore an old European town square featuring historic architecture and a prominent church tower.
Credit: pexels.com, Explore an old European town square featuring historic architecture and a prominent church tower.

In 1863, the United States Postal Service (USPS) was established, and it has been a cornerstone of American communication ever since.

The first airmail service was introduced in 1918, revolutionizing the way mail was delivered across the country.

The ZIP code system was introduced in 1963 to help sort and deliver mail more efficiently.

Description and Features

The Old Town Main Post Office is a two-story structure built out of dressed stone.

It's situated on the north side of Center Street, at its junction with Shirley Street, just off Main Street.

The building has a flat roof and a main facade with Classical proportions.

It's divided into five bays separated by engaged paneled columns.

The outer bays each have tall sash windows recessed in rectangular openings with keystones at the top and a projecting sill at the bottom.

Second-floor windows are roughly square and also have a projecting sill.

Above them is a band of fretwork, above which is an entablature in which small diamond-grilled windows are set, and a projecting cornice above.

The entrance is recessed in an elaborately carved architrave.

The interior of the main lobby features terrazzo marble flooring.

It also has marble wainscoting and wooden trim.

Transoms are above the service counter and mailboxes.

The building has undergone restoration.

Darla Bartell

Senior Assigning Editor

Darla Bartell is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in research and journalism, she has honed her skills in identifying and assigning compelling articles that captivate readers. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, including Truck Dimensions and Regulations, where she has consistently delivered insightful and informative content that meets the needs of her audience.

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