National Neither Snow Nor Rain Day celebrates the dedication of U.S. postal workers who deliver mail regardless of weather conditions. The day commemorates the inscription on New York City’s James A. Farley Post Office Building, which has become the unofficial motto of the United States Postal Service.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 7th annually
- Tagged as: Postal Service Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalNeitherRainNorSnowDay
- When was it founded?: 1914
- Who founded it?: Originated with the opening of NYC’s General Post Office
History
The phrase “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds” was inscribed on the NYC Post Office in 1914. The words were adapted from Herodotus’ description of ancient Persian couriers, translated by George Herbert Palmer.
Timeline
- 1775: Benjamin Franklin becomes first Postmaster General
- 1914: NYC Post Office opens with famous inscription
- 1982: Building renamed to James A. Farley Post Office
- 2009: Post office changes from 24-hour service to evening closure
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Sept 7 | Saturday |
| 2025 | Sept 7 | Sunday |
| 2026 | Sept 7 | Monday |
Observed
The day is celebrated by thanking postal workers, leaving them gifts, or visiting postal museums. Many people also take time to learn about postal service history.
Fun Facts About USPS
- The first U.S. post office was established in a Boston tavern in 1639
- In the 19th century, newspapers were the most common mail item
- The Postmaster General was once in line for presidential succession
- Mail theft in 1799 was punishable by public whipping
Quiz
- When was the first U.S. post office established?
- Who was the first Postmaster General?
- What year did the NYC Post Office open?
(Answers: 1639, Benjamin Franklin, 1914)
FAQs
Q: Is “Neither snow nor rain…” the official USPS motto?
A: No, it’s an unofficial motto derived from the NYC Post Office inscription.
Q: Is the post office still open 24 hours?
A: No, it changed its hours in 2009.
Importance of Neither Snow Nor Rain Day
This day recognizes the unwavering commitment of postal workers who ensure reliable mail delivery despite challenging conditions, maintaining vital communication links across the nation.
Related
- National Thank a Mail Carrier Day
- National Post Office Day
- National Postal Worker Day
- National Letter Writing Day