American History
The Guggenheim Opens to the Public
On October 21, 1959, one of the world’s most renowned museums, the Guggenheim, opened in New York City.
Birth of Charles Ives
Composer Charles Edward Ives was born on October 20, 1874, in Danbury, Connecticut. Though his music was largely unknown during his lifetime, he was later regarded as the leading composer of 20th-century art music.
NYC’s Lost Washington Monument
On October 19, 1847, a grand celebration proceeded the laying of the cornerstone of New York City’s planned 425-foot Washington Monument. The monument was never completed and the cornerstone was lost to time.
Legends of the West Controversy
On October 18, 1994, the USPS issued a corrected Legends of the West stamp sheet after it was discovered they had made an error in their original design. It was one of the biggest stamp stories in years!
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.
White House Cornerstone Laid
On October 13, 1792, the cornerstone of the White House was laid, though its exact location remains a mystery today. It would be eight years before the White House was occupied by America’s second president.
Death of Robert E. Lee
On October 12, 1870, Confederate General Robert E. Lee died in Lexington, Virginia. Lee had a distinguished 32-year career with the US military before joining the Confederacy in the Civil War. After the war, he stood as a symbol of reconciliation.
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.
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.