In 1896, the U.S. Post Office Department began rural free delivery in Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Iowa and West Virginia on an experimental basis. On November 16, Sun Prairie became the first community in Wisconsin to initiate rural free delivery, with four routes. Each carrier rode 20 to 30 miles daily delivering mail in an area of 60 square miles, for a salary of $25 a month. The first appointed carriers included: Charles Woerpel, James Dunphy, Charles Phillips, and William Evans. William Mosel was Sun Prairie Postmaster at this time.

Village merchants initially opposed free delivery, fearing loss of business if farmers did not come to town for their mail. After a month's trial, satisfied farmers announced they would carry on the service themselves should the Postal Service discontinue it. Rural free delivery continued and became a permanent service.

House-to-house delivery in the village did not begin until 1950.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Sun Prairie, WI  |  Dane County  |  53590  |  Wisconsin  |  United States of America

Maureen Mengelt Memorial
Georgia O'Keeffe
Token Creek
Reindahl Memorial Park
Elvis Presley Fight Scene
Alexander Smith House
Hiestand School
Hiestand Park
The Wisconsin Granger Movement
Site of the First Well in DeForest

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.