Opening of the Brooklyn Bridge
On May 24, 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge opened to traffic after 14 years of construction. It was the world’s longest suspension bridge at the time, measuring 5,989 feet.
Animals
Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery
On May 21, 1804, Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery departed St. Charles on the Missouri River to begin their exploration of the American West. Traveling 8,000 miles over 28 months, they provided the first accurate mapping of the US west of the Mississippi River.
Special Handling Stamps
On April 11, 1925, the US Post Office issued its first Special Handling stamp, #QE4. Special Handling stamps enabled fourth-class mail to be delivered at the speed of first-class mail, which was especially important since many parcels contained live animals such as young alligators or baby chicks!
Teddy Roosevelt Departs for African Safari
On March 23, 1909, former president Teddy Roosevelt set sail from New York City for a joint expedition with the Smithsonian Institution. He embarked on an African safari to collect more than 23,000 natural history specimens for the museum.
First U.S. Chinese New Year Stamp
On December 30, 1992, the USPS issued its first Chinese New Year stamp, honoring the start of the Year of the Rooster. The stamp proved popular and led to three different series honoring the holiday.
Endangered Species Act
On December 28, 1973, President Richard Nixon signed the Endangered Species Act into law in an effort to protect threatened species from extinction.
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.
Death of Herman Melville
On September 28, 1891, author Herman Melville died in his New York City home. While it was a moderate success during his lifetime, Melvile’s novel Moby-Dick is now considered a masterpiece of American literature.
Save Vanishing Species Stamp
On September 20, 2011, the USPS issued its fourth Semipostal stamp. The Save Vanishing Species stamp has raised over $7 million in the years since it was first placed on sale.