Newspaper & Periodical Stamps
On March 3, 1863, an Act of Congress granted postal agents the ability to accept newspaper bundles, which would lead to the first US Newspaper and Periodical stamps two years later.
This Day in History
Birth of Sam Houston
American soldier and politician Sam Houston was born on March 2, 1793, in Rockbridge County, Virginia. He was a hero of the Texas Revolution and the first president of the Republic of Texas.
Creation of the Peace Corps
On March 1, 1961, the Peace Corps was established by President John F. Kennedy. The corps consists of young volunteers who help people of other nations improve their quality of life and take charge of their own futures.
Happy Leap Day!
It’s an event that only happens once every four years. The first modern Leap Day was instituted on February 29, 1752, but it’s a tradition that dates back to Ancient Rome.
America’s First Perforated Stamps
The earliest known use of a US perforated postage stamp was on February 28, 1857. Perforations were introduced to make separating stamps quicker and easier.
Happy Birthday, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Acclaimed poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born on February 27, 1807, in Portland, Maine. He was one of the most popular poets of the day, successful in the US and abroad.
Grand Canyon National Park Established
On February 26, 1919, Woodrow Wilson signed legislation establishing the Grand Canyon National Park. It’s one of the country’s most popular national parks and is considered one of the Wonders of the World.
First Pan-American Games
After nearly two decades of planning, the first Pan-American Games were held on February 25, 1951. The games have been held every four years since.
Birth of Admiral Chester Nimitz
Chester William Nimitz was born on February 24, 1885, in Fredericksburg, Texas. He was a leading naval commander during World War II and an authority on submarines.