2nd U.S. International Philatelic Exhibition
On October 16, 1926, the US hosted its second international philatelic exhibition in New York, New York. Among the show’s highlights was the issue of America’s first souvenir sheet.
Postal History
First Overland Mail Delivery
On October 10, 1858, the first shipment of overland mail arrived in San Francisco. It completed its journey in 23 days, a vast improvement over previous services.
Creation of the Universal Postal Union
On October 9, 1874, some 22 nations met in Bern, Switzerland to form the General Postal Union (later renamed the Universal Postal Union or UPU). The UPU standardized mail service between countries and is one of the world’s oldest international organizations.
Birth of Charles R. Chickering
Renowned stamp artist Charles Ransom Chickering was born on October 7, 1891, Easthampton Township, New Jersey. During his 15 years at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, he designed 77 US stamp.
Series of 1922-25
On October 4, 1922, the US Post Office issued the first stamp in Series of 1922-25. This would be the last stamp series printed by the flat plate press.
Start of Rural Free Delivery
On October 1, 1896, Rural Free Delivery was introduced in a handful of West Virginia towns. Rural free delivery made the mail faster, more convenient, and more valuable, bringing our nation together like never before.
Accomplishments in Space Issue
On September 29, 1967, the US Post Office issued its first attached pair of stamps to have a continuous design. Known as the “Space Twins,” the commemorated the 9th anniversary of NASA
The Hudson-Fulton Celebration
On September 25, 1909, the Hudson-Fulton Celebration opened in New York and New Jersey. The celebration marked the 300th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s discovery of the Hudson River as well as the 100th anniversary of Robert Fulton’s first successful commercial paddle steamship.
Gold Star Mothers Stamp
On September 21, 1948, the US Post Office issued the Gold Star Mothers stamp to honor mothers whose sons had been killed in war. It was the first stamp in eight years to feature women (or women’s organizations), and just the 11th stamp overall to do so.