Legends of the West Controversy
On October 18, 1994, the USPS issued a corrected Legends of the West stamp sheet after it was discovered they had made an error in their original design. It was one of the biggest stamp stories in years!
This Day in History
Carter Establishes Department of Education
On October 17, 1979, U.S. President Jimmy Carter signed legislation establishing the US Department of Education. The department creates policies, monitors federal funding, and ensures equal education for students.
2nd U.S. International Philatelic Exhibition
On October 16, 1926, the US hosted its second international philatelic exhibition in New York, New York. Among the show’s highlights was the issue of America’s first souvenir sheet.
Wolf Trap Farm National Park
On October 15, 1966, the Wolf Trap Farm National Park for Performing Arts was established in Virginia. It’s the only National Park dedicated exclusively to the performing arts.
First Supersonic Flight
On October 14, 1947, Chuck Yeager became the first person to break the sound barrier. He reached a speed of 700 miles per hour and accelerated past Mach 1 – the speed of sound.
White House Cornerstone Laid
On October 13, 1792, the cornerstone of the White House was laid, though its exact location remains a mystery today. It would be eight years before the White House was occupied by America’s second president.
Death of Robert E. Lee
On October 12, 1870, Confederate General Robert E. Lee died in Lexington, Virginia. Lee had a distinguished 32-year career with the US military before joining the Confederacy in the Civil War. After the war, he stood as a symbol of reconciliation.
Happy Birthday Eleanor Roosevelt
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt was born on October 11, 1884, in New York City, New York. She was America’s longest-serving First Day and is credited with redefining the role of the presidential spouse.
First Overland Mail Delivery
On October 10, 1858, the first shipment of overland mail arrived in San Francisco. It completed its journey in 23 days, a vast improvement over previous services.