USPS Honors Barbara Bush with Commemorative Stamp Celebration in Kennebunkport

USPS Commemorates Barbara Bush's Legacy with a New Forever Stamp

On May 8, 2025, a significant event took place at the White House as the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) unveiled a new Forever stamp honoring the late Barbara Bush, the beloved former first lady, in celebration of what would have been her 100th birthday. The stamp showcases her remarkable legacy, not just as the wife of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush, but also as an influential advocate for literacy and education.

The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including First Lady Melania Trump, Dorothy “Doro” Bush Koch—Barbara’s daughter, Alice Yates, who serves as the CEO of the George & Barbara Bush Foundation, and Judy de Torok, vice president of Corporate Affairs at USPS. During the event, Doug Tulino, the acting postmaster general, stated, “Today we recognize Mrs. Bush not only as a beloved first lady, but also as a remarkable American in her own right.” He highlighted her “conviction, determination, and compassion” which charted a lasting legacy.

Barbara Bush was well-regarded not only for her role in the White House from 1989 to 1993 but also for her deep commitment to improving literacy rates across America. Her daughter, Bush Koch, expressed gratitude towards the USPS for honoring her mother with the stamp. She noted, “This special stamp serves as a lasting reminder of Barbara Bush's enduring love for family and friends, sharp wit, and unwavering commitment to solve the problems of today by ensuring that every man, woman, and child has the opportunity to read, write, and comprehend.”

Barbara, born in New York City in 1925, met her husband George while they were both teenagers, and their lifelong partnership weathered numerous moves across the country and responsibilities related to his political career. Throughout these years, Barbara was committed to raising their children and supporting her husband’s endeavors, which included roles that led them to frequent relocations, from Texas to Washington D.C.

As a second lady and then the first lady, Barbara was a strong advocate for literacy, inspired largely by her son Neil's struggles with dyslexia. In the mid-1980s, she authored a children’s book titled “C. Fred’s Story,” the profits from which were directed to national literacy programs, illustrating her dedication to ensure children had the means to learn and succeed.

The stamp's design is derived from the official White House portrait of Barbara Bush from 2005, which is a part of the White House Collection. Importantly, the Forever stamp will be available in panes of 20 and be officially released on Saturday, May 10. Coinciding with the release, a dedication ceremony will take place on June 10, 2025, at Ganny's Garden in Kennebunkport, Maine—a location dear to the Bush family.

This ceremony not only marks the centennial of Barbara Bush’s birth but also serves as a testament to her enduring impact on American society through her commitment to family, literacy, and humanitarian causes. The USPS encourages those wishing to attend the ceremony to RSVP in advance.

In his closing remarks, Tulino emphasized that Barbara Bush's life is an example of resilience and service, stating, “Her legacy is one that can inspire all Americans, reminding us of the power of words and the gift of literacy.” As the United States Postal Service continues its mission to serve every American community, this commemorative stamp represents a special acknowledgment of an iconic woman whose influence remains felt today.

For more details, individuals can follow the official hashtag #BarbaraBushStamp and check the USPS website for purchase options and information about upcoming events related to the stamp.