In the age of digital communication, the humble post office may seem like a relic of the past. However, post offices hold an important place in the history and culture of the United States. Many small-town post offices, especially those in rural areas, are in danger of closure. Evan Kalish, the founder of the Going Postal Blog, has taken it upon himself to travel across the country and document these locations. His blog serves as a reminder of the importance of post offices in preserving local history and the memories tied to these spaces.
In this article, we will explore Kalish’s Going Postal Blog, its purpose, and how it helps raise awareness about the endangered post offices in America. We will also take a look at Kalish’s journey, the significance of post offices, and how you can get involved in preserving this important piece of history.
Beginning of the Going Postal Blog
Evan Kalish’s Going Postal Blog began as a personal hobby but soon grew into a project of national importance. Kalish, a graduate student in geospatial analytics at the University of Pennsylvania, started visiting post offices after an eye-opening experience in Wyoming. He traveled down remote roads and visited small towns, many of which had post offices on the verge of closure.
Kalish’s mission grew from simply visiting these post offices to documenting their stories. He started photographing and collecting hand-cancellation marks from each post office he visited. These marks are stamps used to cancel postage, and collecting them became a way for Kalish to preserve the history of each location.
The Going Postal Blog serves as a platform where Kalish shares his experiences, posting photographs, stories, and facts about the post offices he visits. His blog has become an archive of a dying tradition and helps to raise awareness about the importance of these buildings and the services they provide.
The Importance of Post Offices
Post offices may seem outdated in today’s digital world, but they are far more than just places to send and receive mail. For many small towns and rural areas, post offices are a lifeline. They provide essential services, act as community hubs, and are often the first place people turn to for information or help. In some areas, the post office is the only reliable place for individuals to access government services.
Many post offices, especially those built during the Great Depression under Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal, are also historically significant. These buildings were constructed with pride and craftsmanship, often featuring beautiful architecture and intricate details. Kalish’s blog highlights these buildings, reminding us of the artistic and historical value of these post offices, many of which are now at risk of closing.
Kalish is passionate about preserving these spaces and the stories tied to them. Through his blog, he not only documents the architecture and the people who work at these post offices but also shares the importance of protecting them for future generations.
Why Post Offices Are Closing?
The closure of post offices is a serious issue in many parts of the country, particularly in rural areas. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has been facing financial challenges for years, largely due to a decline in mail volume and rising operational costs. As a result, the USPS has been forced to consider cutting back on services, including closing post offices.
Rural areas are especially vulnerable. Many small post offices serve just a handful of people, and with fewer people using traditional mail services, these post offices are considered inefficient to maintain. However, for the residents who rely on them, these closures have a profound impact. When post offices close, communities lose a critical point of connection and a symbol of their identity.
Kalish’s Going Postal Blog brings attention to the closures and offers a way for people to connect with these places before they are gone. By raising awareness and documenting these post offices, Kalish hopes to inspire others to take action and advocate for the preservation of these buildings and services.
Role of the Going Postal Blog in Preservation Efforts
The Going Postal Blog has turned into a valuable resource for those who care about the preservation of post offices. Kalish’s photographs and stories provide a window into the past, showing what these places meant to communities and the unique features they offer. The blog has sparked discussions about the future of post offices and what can be done to save them.
Through his blog, Kalish has highlighted post offices in danger of closure, and some of his posts have led to public support and outcry. While it may be impossible to save every post office, Kalish’s efforts show that there is still time to fight for the ones that are at risk.
In addition to showcasing individual post offices, Kalish also writes about the history and significance of these buildings. His posts are informative and educational, helping readers understand why post offices matter and how they are intertwined with American history.
Kalish’s Favorite Post Offices
Kalish has visited nearly 3,000 post offices, and among them, some stand out more than others. One of his favorites is located in Greenville, Pennsylvania. Built during the Depression era, this post office occupies a full city block and is known for its grandeur. The building features beautiful granite columns, a marble interior, and intricate carvings, including metal lions at the counters. Kalish describes it as “tall, majestic, and filled with pride,” highlighting the lasting impact of the architectural choices made during the New Deal.
Kalish is also fond of smaller post offices that hold unique stories. One memorable visit was to a post office in Rozet, Wyoming, near Devils Tower. The postmaster at this location was known for his special pictorial postmarks, which were hand-canceled on top of Devils Tower. Kalish recalls how the postmaster carried the sack of mail up to the top of the rock formation to create these limited-edition postmarks. This personal touch and the connection to the local landscape made it an unforgettable experience for Kalish.
Through his blog, Kalish shares these stories, giving each post office the attention and recognition it deserves.
How You Can Help Preserve Post Offices?
While it may seem like the fate of post offices is out of our control, there are ways to help protect them. Here are a few ways you can get involved:
- Support Local Post Offices:
Visit your local post office and use its services. Sending letters, buying stamps, and using other postal services help keep these institutions running.
- Raise Awareness:
Share Kalish’s Going Postal Blog with friends and family to raise awareness about the importance of post offices. The more people understand their value, the more likely it is that action will be taken to preserve them.
- Advocate for Preservation:
Contact your local representatives and express your support for maintaining post offices in rural areas. Let them know how important these buildings are to the communities they serve.
By supporting post offices and raising awareness about their significance, you can play a role in helping preserve these important pieces of history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Going Postal Blog?
The Going Postal Blog is a blog created by Evan Kalish, where he documents his visits to post offices across the United States. He collects hand-cancellation marks and shares the history and significance of each location.
Why are post offices closing?
Post offices are closing due to financial challenges faced by the U.S. Postal Service, including declining mail volumes and rising operational costs. Rural areas are particularly vulnerable to post office closures.
How can I support my local post office?
You can support your local post office by using its services regularly, such as sending mail and purchasing stamps. Additionally, raising awareness and advocating for post office preservation can make a difference.
Why are post offices important?
Post offices provide essential services to communities, especially in rural areas. They act as community hubs, offer access to government services, and are often the only point of contact for many individuals.
What can I do to help preserve post offices?
You can help by supporting your local post office, raising awareness about their importance, and advocating for their preservation to local government officials.
Conclusion
The Going Postal Blog has become an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history, architecture, and cultural significance of post offices in the United States. Through his tireless efforts, Evan Kalish has documented nearly 3,000 post offices, sharing their stories with the world and raising awareness about the closures threatening these landmarks. Post offices are not just places to send mail—they are vital community centers that represent the spirit of connection. By supporting and preserving them, we ensure that future generations will continue to have access to the services and history they represent.
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