USPS marks 250 years with updated history publication

Jul 2, 2025, 1 PM

Philatelic Foreword by Jay Bigalke

The United States Postal Service has shared an advance print copy of the 250th anniversary edition of Publication 100, The United States Postal Service: An American History, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s journey from its colonial origins to its modern, innovative service.

This new edition, updated through December 2024, includes expanded sections that reflect recent initiatives and strategic directions of the USPS. Notably, the updates detail the progress of the Delivering for America plan, with new material covering USPS Ground Advantage, the transition from air to ground transport, streamlining of network operations, and fleet modernization efforts.

In his foreword, now former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy reflects on the remarkable journey of the Postal Service since its establishment in 1775. “Our universal mail system has strengthened the bonds of friendship, family, and community,” DeJoy wrote. “It has encouraged civic discourse, advanced the spread of information, and enabled the expansion of industry and commerce. And it has continued to help bind our diverse, far-flung communities into a single nation.”

DeJoy emphasizes the enduring mission of the Postal Service: “Although many things have changed since 1775, much of the Postal Service’s historic mission remains the same — to provide all Americans, in all areas and communities, with access to prompt, reliable, and efficient services.”

With an eye toward the future, DeJoy acknowledges the challenges and opportunities ahead: “As we approach our bisesquicentennial, I am reminded of our exemplary past filled with innovation, transformation, and perseverance. We are once again leading change, challenging the status quo, and building a brighter future as we implement the Delivering for America 10-year strategic plan.”

In an accompanying letter, USPS Historian and Corporate Information Systems Manager Stephen Kochersperger expresses gratitude to contributors who helped bring this edition to life.

He notes that a free electronic copy of this historic volume is available for download at https://about.usps.com/publications/pub100.pdf.

The Postal Service’s Publication 100 has long served as a vital resource for historians, collectors, and the general public, chronicling the Postal Service’s role in American life.

A print edition of this updated publication will also be available for purchase through the USPS Postal Store by searching for “PUB100.” However, as of this writing, the print edition is not yet available online.

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