CLINFI_151006_056
Existing comment: 1853:
The use of steamboats to carry mail peaked prior to the expansion of railroads.

1860:
In April, the Pony Express began operating as a mail route.

1861:
In October, the Pony Express was discontinued after the transcontinental telegraph line was completed.

1863:
Free city delivery began, with mail delivered directly to homes, rather than Post Offices.

1896:
Rural Free Delivery began, expanding home delivery to almost all Americans.
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