National Newspaper Carrier Day
On September 4, 1833, the first American newspaper boy was hired. Today, this event is celebrated as National Newspaper Carrier Day.
American History
Proprietary Stamps
On September 2, 1871, the first Proprietary stamps with their own Scott designation (RB) were issued. These stamps paid the taxes on consumer goods, such as medicines, matches, perfumes, playing cards, canned foods, and more.
Beer Stamps
On September 1, 1866, the first US Beer stamps were issued. The first stamps issued for use on alcoholic beverages, they remained in use until 1951.
Champions of Liberty Series
On August 31, 1957, the US Post Office issued an 8¢ stamp honoring Ramon Magsaysay, the first stamp in a new Champions of Liberty Series. The stamps honor patriots who struggled courageously to protect their homelands from tyranny and further the cause of freedom.
March On Washington And Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have A Dream” Speech
As Black Americans struggled against segregation and mistreatment, Civil Rights leaders organized the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963.
Birth of Lee de Forest
Lee de Forest was born on August 26, 1873, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. His inventions made long-distance telephone service, radio broadcasting, television, and many other technologies possible, making him one of the founders of the “electronic age.”
Birth of Oliver Perry
Oliver Hazard Perry was born on August 23, 1785, in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. Serving with distinction during the War of 1812, he was known as the “Hero of Lake Erie.”
Happy Birthday Count Basie!
William James “Count” Basie was born on August 21, 1904, in Red Bank, New Jersey. One of America’s most notable Big Band leaders, he earned nine Grammy awards and made a permanent mark on American music.
Battle of Fallen Timbers
On August 20, 1794, General “Mad Anthony” Wayne led American troops to victory at the Battle of Fallen Timbers. The win enabled the Treaty of Greenville and the US acquisition of the Ohio Territory.