#United States #USPS #Concord #Battlefields #American Revolution

USPS Commemorates Historic Battles with New Forever Stamps

In a celebration of American history, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is set to unveil a series of Forever stamps honoring significant battlefields from the American Revolutionary War. This initiative marks the 250th anniversary of the conflicts that ignited a fight for independence, starting with the legendary battles of Lexington and Concord.

Stamp Ceremony Details

The first-day-of-issue ceremony will take place on April 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. EDT at the North Bridge Visitor Center in Minute Man National Historical Park, Concord, Massachusetts. This event is free and open to the public, giving attendees a chance to celebrate a monumental moment in American history. Judy de Torok, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at USPS, will lead the ceremony as the dedicating official.

Participants will witness the unveiling of a pane containing 15 stamps, each designed to commemorate key battles that played pivotal roles in shaping the path toward American independence. The stamps feature intricate watercolor illustrations that depict scenes from these historical conflicts, paired with photographs showcasing the actual sites of each battle.

Historic Significance of the Stamps

The stamps are not only artistic representations but also encapsulate significant chapters in the story of America's fight for freedom. Among the battles highlighted:

1. Battle of Lexington and Concord: These initial clashes in April 1775 marked the outbreak of open conflict between Britain and its American colonies. The courage of local militias signaled that ordinary citizens could stand against a formidable military force.

2. Battle of Bunker Hill: Even though this June 1775 battle resulted in a tactical defeat for the Americans, it was a strategic turning point that showcased American resilience. The high British casualties compelled a reevaluation of their military tactics going forward.

3. Battle of Trenton: This battle, occurring after the daring and strategic maneuver by George Washington, revitalized the revolutionary cause and proved that victory was possible against the British.

4. Battles of Saratoga: Fought in 1777, these engagements are credited with securing French support for the American cause, marking a crucial moment in the campaign for independence.

5. Battle of Yorktown: The war's final significant engagement in 1781 led to a surrender by British General Cornwallis, solidifying the Americans' determination to achieve independence.

Artistic Contributions

The beautiful watercolor designs of the stamps were created by renowned artist Greg Harlin, with art direction provided by Derry Noyes of USPS. The stamps will serve as Forever stamps, meaning they will remain valid for First-Class Mail service, regardless of future price increases.

Purchase Information

These historic stamps will be available for purchase through the USPS website, at post office locations, and through other authorized vendors. Collectors and history enthusiasts can also explore related philatelic products available online.

For those interested in participating in the first-day-of-issue ceremony, an RSVP is encouraged through the official USPS website. Utilizing the hashtag #BattlefieldsStamps, USPS is sparking discussions and interest across social media platforms, bringing awareness to these essential events in U.S. history.

This new stamp series is a heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices made during the American Revolution, ensuring that the spirit of independence and the stories of valor continue to be remembered by future generations. For further details, visit StampsForever.com.

Join the Celebration

As the nation prepares for the anniversary of the Revolutionary War, this initiative with USPS allows everyone to engage with history in a unique way. Through these stamps, the stories of bravery, resilience, and the journey towards freedom are beautifully encapsulated, reminding us of the sacrifices that paved the way for the America we know today.