First Unwatermarked Stamp of the 20th Century
On September 27, 1916, the US Post Office issued its first postage stamp on unwatermarked paper in over 20 years. The change was in response to war-time constraints, but would become permanent.
This Day in History
Happy Birthday Johnny Appleseed
John Chapman, popularly known as Johnny Appleseed, was born on September 26, 1774, in Leominster, Massachusetts. A popular figure in American folklore, he planted countless apple seeds, helping the fruit to prosper in America.
Birth of William Faulkner
Celebrated American author William Faulkner was born on September 25, 1897, in New Albany, Mississippi. Known for using a wide range of styles, Faulkner explored America’s geography, history, economy, and social and moral life in his writing.
Birth of Severo Ochoa
Severo Ochoa de Albornoz was born on September 24, 1905, in Luarca, Spain. Ochoa researched how cells build proteins like RNA, which earned him the Nobel Prize in 1956.
Birth of Walter Lippmann
Journalist Walter Lippmann was born on September 23, 1889, in New York City, New York. He’s been called the “most influential journalist” of the 20th century and the Father of Modern Journalism.
First U.S. Commemorative on Colored Paper
On September 22, 1956, the US Post Office issued its first commemorative stamp on colored paper. The stamp celebrated the 200th anniversary of Princeton’s Nassau Hall.
Birth of Stamp Artist Howard Koslow
Howard Bertram Koslow was born on September 21, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York. Over the course of 40 years, Koslow produced artwork for more than 50 US stamps and postal cards, including the popular and long-running Lighthouse Series.
Death of Fiorello La Guardia
On September 20, 1947, former New York City mayor Fiorello La Guardia died. Voted the best former mayor in America, he fought corruption and revitalized the city.
First Battle of Saratoga
On September 19, 1777, the first Battle of Saratoga was fought at Freeman’s Farm. Though the British claimed victory, it set the stage for a second battle that would be an American victory and major turning point in the war.