The American Museum of Natural History
On April 6, 1869, the American Museum of Natural History was established in New York City. It’s become one of the largest natural history museums in the world, with over 34 million items.
This Day in History
Birth of Sybil Ludington
Revolutionary heroine Sybil Ludington was born on April 5, 1761 in Kent, New York. Her daring late-night ride mustered troops to help defend American territory.
$1 Airlift Stamp
On April 4, 1968, the USPS issued a $1 stamp that, when combined with a parcel post stamp, was used to send mail and packages to American service members overseas.
Inaugural Run of the Pony Express
On April 3, 1860, the Pony Express made its first trip from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. Though short-lived, the Pony Express was a revolution in communication, able to transport important letters across the country more than twice as fast as the existing overland mail system.
Establishment of the US Mint
On April 2, 1792, Congress passed the Coinage Act (also known as the Mint Act), which, among other things, created the United States Mint. The US Mint building in Philadelphia was the first federal building created under the Constitution.
First Commercial Telegraph Service
On April 1, 1845, the US Post Office Department inaugurated the first commercial telegraph service.
Happy Birthday César Chávez
César Estrada Chávez was born on March 31, 1927, in Yuma, Arizona. He created the National Farm Workers Association, implementing nonviolent protests to fight for better pay and conditions.
Scarce Imperforate 1908 Lincoln Stamp
On March 30, 1908, the US Post Office issued an imperforate 5¢ Lincoln stamp that nearly went unnoticed by collectors. It was never intended for public sale and could have been lost to time if not for a group of quick-acting collectors.
Founding of New Sweden
On March 29, 1638, the New Sweden Colony was established, encompassing parts of present-day Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The US issued its first three-nation joint issue to commemorate the event in 1988.