Opening of the Golden Gate Bridge
On May 28, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge officially opened to traffic. It was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time of its opening and was dubbed a “Wonder of the World” structure.
This Day in History
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Opening of the Chrysler Building
On May 27, 1930, the Chrysler Building, the tallest man-made structure at the time, opened to the public.
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First US Airmail Booklet
On May 26, 1928, the US issued its first-ever Airmail booklet – US #C10a.
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Canada Centenary Issue
On May 25, 1967, the Canada Centennial stamp was issued in Montreal – the first time a US stamp had a First Day ceremony in another country.
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First Successful Single-Rotor Helicopter Flight
On May 24, 1940, Igor Sikorsky successfully flew the first single-rotor helicopter. Sikorsky developed the world’s first mass-produced helicopter and one of the first American helicopters used in World War II.
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South Carolina Admitted to the Union
On May 23, 1788, South Carolina ratified the Constitution, making it America’s eighth state.
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Looney Tunes Series and the Rare Bugs Bunny Imperforate Sheet
On May 22, 1997, the USPS issued the first stamp in the Looney Tunes Series, honoring Bugs Bunny. It was the first US stamp to picture a cartoon character. There’s also a 10th stamp imperforate pane that’s the most rare stamp issued in 70 years!
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Opening of SIPEX
On May 21, 1966, the Sixth International Philatelic Exhibition opened in Washington, DC. It was planned in just 18 months and saw the issue of some interesting postal firsts!
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First Solo Non-Stop Flight Across the Atlantic
On May 20, 1927, Charles Lindbergh began his famous flight across the Atlantic aboard the Spirit of St. Louis. Flying alone for 33 hours across 3,600 miles in stormy weather, he became an instant celebrity and American legend.
