[SEL] SEL Off Topic Discussion - Postal Codes

[Judge Tommy Turner]

We do have a postal (ZIP) code assigned to us but aren't required to use it 
(most everyone does though).  The 4 places mentioned are the only ones in 
the US that even if a person fails to place the zip code, the mail must 
still be delivered to them.  If I were to mail a letter to a friend in 
Chicago and left off the zip code, the post office would return it to me 
claiming it had an improper address.  However, if that friend sends me one 
and leaves off the zip code, it has to be delivered as a zip code isn't 
required for me.  Its better to use it though as if a zip code isn't used, 
the letter isn't machine sorted and has to be hand sorted.  I haven't tried 
before but I wonder what UPS, FedEx, etc would do if someone tried to send 
me something and when asked for a zip code they were told I didn't have to 
have one.  There would be some eyebrows raised I'm sure.

There is some question as to why of all the thousands of post offices in the 
US, we're one of only 4 that don't have to use a zip code.  One story is 
that its due to the historic significance of the Lincoln Birthplace located 
here.  However, another story may be the real reason.  When zip codes came 
into being, a gent from our town (one of my relatives in fact) was a member 
of Congress and chaired the committee that created them.  He also happened 
to be the former postmaster and he hated the idea of having to place a zip 
code on letters for his hometown.  Makes sense as its certainly an example 
of our how our US Government works!

Tommy Turner




>
> That's very interesting Tommy but it must confuse the heck out of websites
> that "require" you to fill in a postal code.
>
> Keep the revs up (or down)
> Jerry Evans
> Near Johannesburg in Sunny South Africa.
> Etched Brass Engine Plates made to order:
> <www.oldengine.org/members/evans/plates/index.htm>
>
>
>
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