Birth of Ernest E. Just
Ernest Everett Just was born on August 14, 1883, in Charleston, South Carolina. Just was an internationally renowned zoologist, known primarily for his work in marine biology.
This Day in History
Birth of Annie Oakley
Annie Oakley was born Phoebe Ann Mosey on August 13, 1860, in Darke County, Ohio. She was one of the most talented sharpshooters of her day and solidified the image of the American cowgirl.
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.
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.
Birth of William Harnett
Artist William Michael Harnett was born on August 10, 1848, in Clonakilty, County, Cork, Ireland. Harnett was one of the most successful artists of his day, known for his amazingly realistic paintings.
American Treasures Series
On August 9, 2001, the USPS inaugurated the American Treasures Series with the issue of four stamps depicting Amish quilts. The series would span more than a decade and feature paintings, tapestries, glassware, and more.
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.