Post office named for Thaddeus Stevens

DANVILLE – The post office in Danville is being renamed for Thaddeus Stevens, the Vermont native who became known for his efforts to abolish slavery.

Vermont’s congressional delegation announced that Congress has passed legislation to make the change in honor of Stevens, who was born in Danville in 1792.

Stevens led efforts in the Civil War-era to pass a constitutional amendment to abolish slavery.

The Academy Award winning movie “Lincoln” provided a fresh look at Stevens’ role in fighting for the passage of the 13th Amendment to end slavery. Tommy Lee Jones portrayed Stevens in the Steven Spielberg film.

In a statement, the delegation described Stevens as “a true Vermont hero.”

Stevens was elected to Congress from Pennsylvania and served seven terms.