Encased Postage
On August 12, 1862, John Gault received a patent for a design to encase postage stamps to use as currency as coins were being hoarded during the Civil War.
American History
The Virginia City Pony Express
On August 11, 1862, Wells Fargo inaugurated its Virginia City Pony Express, which carried mail between Nevada mining towns and California business centers.
The First Steam Locomotive in the U.S.
On August 8, 1829, the Stourbridge Lion became the first steam locomotive to be operated in the United States.
George Washington Creates Forerunner of Purple Heart
On August 7, 1782, George Washington ordered the creation of the Badge of Military Merit to be awarded for bravery in battle. The predecessor of the Purple Heart, it’s one of the oldest military awards worldwide that is open to all who are wounded in battle.
Chautauqua Institution
On August 6, 1974, the USPS issued the Chautauqua Institution stamp, the second in the Rural America series, honoring the organization’s centennial. Initially founded to train Sunday school teachers, “Chautauqua” became a term for commercial traveling companies who pitched tents and presented lecturers, orators, and performing artists to rural areas.
Founding of National Cancer Institute
On August 5, 1937, President Franklin Roosevelt signed legislation creating the National Cancer Institute. The institute researches cures and treatments for cancer and is the oldest and largest institute of the National Institutes of Health.
Birth of Louis Armstrong
Louis Daniel Armstrong was born on August 4, 1901, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Armstrong was one of the most influential jazz musicians in American history. His distinct gravelly voice, skill in improvising lyrics, and mastery of the trumpet helped make jazz music a popular art form.
Revolutionary War Sesquicentennial
On August 3, 1927, the US Post Office issued two stamps honoring significant events from the Revolutionary War in 1777.
San Francisco’s First Cable Car
On August 2, 1873, Clay Street Hill Railroad inaugurated San Francisco’s now-famous cable car system.