State Historical Society of Iowa

Post Office in Solon, Iowa, ca. 1910

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Post Office in Solon, Iowa, ca. 1910
Courtesy of State Historical Society of Iowa, ca. 1910

Description

Marie Beuter worked alongside Clara Chansky at the post office from 1968 to 1989. Mail service was received at irregular times due to the road conditions and weather. The first roads followed Native American trails. People rode many miles to get their mail. Postage rates were first determined by how far a piece of mail had to travel. With the coming of the railroad, the postal system in Iowa began to improve. 

Source-Dependent Questions

  • Look closely at the photo, which was taken around 1910. Describe how life was different then based on what you see in the photo.
  • Mail service was received at irregular times due to the road conditions and weather. Compare the mail service to telegraphic messages. Which method of communication would be more impactful for Iowans? What makes you say that?