National Postal Workers Day

June 1st is National Postal Workers Day, an annual celebration honoring the dedication and hard work of postal workers. Thanks to their efforts, mail and parcels are delivered safely and promptly to homes across the country. In the U.S., postal workers walk an average of 4 to 8 miles daily to ensure timely deliveries.

History

The first post office in the United States was established in 1639 in a Boston tavern. Mail delivery became a government function in 1775 with the creation of the Department of Posts. Today, approximately 490,000 postal employees work tirelessly to deliver letters and packages. The Post Office Department later evolved into a Cabinet-level department, and in 1971, the Postal Service (USPS) became an independent agency.

Even in the digital age, postal services remain vital, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. National Postal Workers Day celebrates the contributions of not just mail carriers, but also sorters, stamp sellers, truck drivers, and everyone involved in ensuring efficient postal operations.

Interesting Facts

Here are some fascinating facts to mark National Postal Workers Day:

• The first U.S. stamps, featuring George Washington, were issued in 1847.
• In 1971, the iconic blue letter boxes were introduced.
• Postal workers deliver over 212 billion items annually.

How to Take Part

Celebrate National Postal Workers Day by showing appreciation for postal workers. Send a thank-you email to your local service office or express gratitude in person. While complaints are common, a simple “thank you” can brighten a USPS staff member’s day and acknowledge their dedication.

When is National Postal Workers Day in 2025?

National Postal Workers Day is observed annually on June 1.

Observations