DeSaulnier’s Bill to Rename Richmond Post Office after Dedicated Civil Servant is Signed into Law

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) announced that legislation he authored to rename the Nevin Avenue Post Office in Richmond, California as the “Harold D. McCraw, Sr., Post Office Building” (H.R. 606) has been signed into law. Harold D. McCraw, Sr. was a distinguished and dedicated civil servant, who began working for the Richmond Post Office in 1965 and served the United States Postal Service (USPS) for 45 years. The bill passed both the House and Senate unanimously, before being signed into law (PL 115-283).  

“The City of Richmond is, and has always been, home to hardworking, compassionate, and dedicated citizens who put community and country first,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “Renaming the Nevin Avenue Post Office in honor of Mr. McCraw is a fitting tribute to his commitment and service to the United States Postal Service and the Richmond community.” 

“My brother loved living in Richmond and working for USPS. He was the type of man who gave his all to everything he did. I was proud of him throughout his life, but today I am particularly proud and touched that his memory will live on in a place he truly loved,” said Annie Jones, sister of Harlod D. McCraw. “I thank Congressman DeSaulnier for his hard work on behalf of my family. The news of this renaming becoming law has brought us much happiness.”

Mr. McCraw not only served as Richmond Postmaster, but was also an active member of the Richmond community, serving on various boards and commissions, and starting the East Bay Chapter of the National Association of Postmasters of the United States (NAPUS). He also served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Richmond Community Social Services Corporation, where he facilitated the development of a child care facility that has expanded to five locations and cares for hundreds of children.
 

"Our residents, businesses and employees all recognize the Downtown Richmond Post Office as a critical public and historic resource. We are thrilled that Mr. McCraw's legacy has been honored and it is especially significant now that this landmark was spared from closure earlier this year," said Richmond Mayor Tom Butt. "Harold McCraw's leadership has shown through and now the Post Office will serve as a reminder of our community's strength and character."
 

Earlier this year, Congressman DeSaulnier played an active role in saving the Nevin Avenue Post Office building from being sold. After urging the United States Post Office to reconsider their plans to sell the building, issuing public comment opposing the plan, and working with the Mayor and the City of Richmond to explore purchasing the post office to keep it in public use, Congressman DeSaulnier was informed in July of 2018 that all plans to sell the building have been halted.
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