How Philadelphia, and Ben Franklin, shaped the creation of the U.S. Postal Service 251 years ago

Name: How Philadelphia, and Ben Franklin, shaped the creation of the U.S. Postal Service 251 years ago
Uploaded: 2026-06-24T06:40:00-0400
Duration: 1 min 37 s
Description: In 1737, Benjamin Franklin became the postmaster of Philadelphia under British rule. Nearly 40 years later, in 1775, he became the first postmaster general appointed by the Continental Congress, helping keep the Continental Army connected and informed. Nikki DeMentri explores Philly's connection to one of our nation's oldest institutions.

In 1737, Benjamin Franklin became the postmaster of Philadelphia under British rule. Nearly 40 years later, in 1775, he became the first postmaster general appointed by the Continental Congress, helping keep the Continental Army connected and informed. Nikki DeMentri explores Philly's connection to one of our nation's oldest institutions.