Postal History Foundation in the Press

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20 JUN 2023

Xplore Tuc son: Postal History Museum

21 AUG 2021

Green Valley News: Travels with Two Sisters: STAYING COOL & LEARNING TOO!

07 AUG 2021

Postcrossing: The Little Mail Carriers at the Postal History Foundation!

29 AUG 2020

The Arizona Republic: A lifeline. A community center. A business safety net. In Arizona, the mail means more than you may think.

PHF commentary. Subscription required to view this article.

21 SEP 2019

The Arizona Daily Star: The Arizona Territory’s oldest known envelope is now at Tucson’s Postal History Museum

21 AUG 2019

KGUN 9 Tucson: The 12th Annual Tucson Birthday Stamp Design Contest for kids is accepting entries

21 AUG 2019

The Arizona Daily Star: 12-year-old girl designs winning postage stamp for Tucson’s birthday

Subscription required to access this article.

20 AUG 2019

KOLD 13: Tucson birthday stamp winner announced

20 AUG 2019

KVOA News 4 Tucson: Happy 244th Birthday, Tucson!

31JAN 2019

The Arizona Daily Star: Everything’s a story at Postal History Foundation…

Subscription required to access this article.

14 OCT 2018

The Arizona Daily Star: Tucson history museums deliver unexpected discoveries

6 SEP 2018

Tucson Local Media: Catalina Foothills student wins Tucson stamp contest

16 AUG 2018

The Arizona Daily Star: Come celebrate Tucson’s 243rd birthday

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29 MAY 2018

The Arizona Daily Star: Tucson summer bucket list: 100 things to do

1 FEB 2018

The Arizona Daily Star: Mail delivery in the boom days of mining

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30 JAN 2018

KOLD 13: Postal History Foundation exhibit tells story of mail delivery in early days of mining

4 MAY 2017

The Arizona Daily Star: Tucson teen and children events May 11-19

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16 AUG 2016

The Arizona Daily Star: Tucson and Nandi celebrate birthdays

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27 MAY 2016

USA Today: Postal pilgrimage: 10 great places for stamp lovers

21 AUG 2015

Arizona Daily Star: Ironwood Ridge student wins Tucson stamp contest

Subscription required to access article.

7 OCT 2014

The Arizona Republic: 5 reasons why your kid should collect stamps

Also ran in other papers via AP wire.

11 SEP 2014

The Arizona Republic: Tucson mail-sorting center set to close in April

PHF commentary.

22 AUG 2014

The Arizona Daily Star: Gale Elementary student wins Tucson Birthday Stamp Contest

Subscription required to access article.

22 AUG 2014

Arizona Public Media: The Postal History Foundation

A listing of past press releases is coming soon.

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#DidYouKnow Crazy Horse, a legendary Oglala Lakota

#DidYouKnow Crazy Horse, a legendary Oglala Lakota leader, was likely born around 1840, though the exact date is uncertain. His Lakota name, Tȟašúŋke Witkó, means "His Horse is Crazy" or "His Horse is Spirited." He remains a symbol of Native American resistance and resilience. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday #CrazyHorse #LakotaWarrior #NativeAmericanHistory #Resistance #Resilience #OglalaLakota #HistoricalIcon #TasunkeWitko #CulturalHeritage #IndigenousPride

#DidYouKnow on November 29, 1898, C.S. Lewis was b

#DidYouKnow on November 29, 1898, C.S. Lewis was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Best known for his Chronicles of Narnia series, Lewis was a renowned author, scholar, and theologian. His works, including The Screwtape Letters and Mere Christianity, have had a lasting influence on literature and Christian thought. Lewis's imaginative storytelling and deep philosophical insights continue to inspire readers of all ages around the world. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday #CSLewis #ChroniclesOfNarnia #LiteratureLegend #Theology #ClassicBooks #Narnia #Inspiration #LiteraryGreats #BookLovers #C.S.Lewis

Happy Thanksgiving from The Postal History Foundat

Happy Thanksgiving from The Postal History Foundation! This Thanksgiving, we are grateful for our wonderful volunteers and supportive community. Wishing you and your loved ones a day filled with warmth, joy, and gratitude.

Don’t forget to check our calendar for upcoming holiday events! https://postalhistoryfoundation.org/

#HappyThanksgiving #Grateful #ThankYou #Community #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

#OnThisDay in 1942, Jimi Hendrix was born in Seatt

#OnThisDay in 1942, Jimi Hendrix was born in Seattle, Washington. Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in history, Hendrix revolutionized rock music with his innovative playing and electrifying performances. He is best known for his iconic hits like "Purple Haze," "Hey Joe," and his unforgettable rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Woodstock. Hendrix's unique blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia left a lasting impact on the music world, despite his career being tragically cut short at age 27. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday #jimihendrix #bluesguitar #bluesmusic #purplehaze

#DidYouKnow on November 26, 1922, Charles M. Schul

#DidYouKnow on November 26, 1922, Charles M. Schulz, creator of the Peanuts comic strip, was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Debuting in 1950, Peanuts became one of the most influential comic strips in history, running until 2000. It introduced iconic characters like Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, and Linus, offering thoughtful humor and insights into life's complexities. Schulz’s legacy endures through TV specials, books, and merchandise. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday #peanuts #snoopy #snoppyandcharliebrown

#OnThisDay in 1914, Joe DiMaggio was born in Marti

#OnThisDay in 1914, Joe DiMaggio was born in Martinez, California. Known as "Joltin' Joe" and "The Yankee Clipper," DiMaggio set a record with his 56-game hitting streak in 1941. He played his entire career for the New York Yankees (1936-1951), winning nine World Series and three MVP awards. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955, DiMaggio is also remembered for his marriage to actress Marilyn Monroe. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday #baseball #joedimaggio

#OnThisDay in 1744, Abigail Adams was born in Weym

#OnThisDay in 1744, Abigail Adams was born in Weymouth, Massachusetts. A key figure in early American history, she was the wife of John Adams, the second president, and the mother of John Quincy Adams, the sixth president. In addition to her family roles, Abigail was a political thinker, advocate for women's rights, and a trusted advisor to her husband. Known for her intellect and strong character, she is considered one of the first feminists in American history. Her writings continue to inspire those fighting for justice, women's empowerment, and equality. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

#DidYouKnow that Tweety Pie, the iconic yellow can

#DidYouKnow that Tweety Pie, the iconic yellow canary from Looney Tunes, debuted on November 21, 1942, in A Tale of Two Kitties. Created by Bob Clampett and designed by Friz Freleng, Tweety became a beloved character known for his sweetness, cleverness, and rivalry with Sylvester. He remains a timeless symbol in animation, captivating audiences of all ages. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

#DidYouKnow that International Children's Day, obs

#DidYouKnow that International Children's Day, observed annually on November 20, is a day dedicated to celebrating and promoting the well-being and rights of children around the world? The date was chosen to honor the adoption of two key international documents that laid the foundation for children's rights and welfare: the Declaration of the Rights of the Child (1959) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989). #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

#DidYouKnow? On November 19, 1863, President Abrah

#DidYouKnow? On November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, honoring Union soldiers who had died in the pivotal Civil War battle. In just 272 words, Lincoln redefined the purpose of the war, reaffirmed the principles of equality and liberty, and emphasized the enduring power of democracy, making the speech one of the most influential in American history. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

It was great seeing everyone at the PBS Kids Day E

It was great seeing everyone at the PBS Kids Day Event this weekend! Be sure to follow us on Instagram @phftucson and Facebook Postal History Foundation to stay updated on our upcoming holiday events and activities! For more info on museum hours, location and events, visit our website postalhistoryfoundation.org

#OnThisDay in 1797, Sojourner Truth was born Isabe

#OnThisDay in 1797, Sojourner Truth was born Isabella Baumfree in Swartekill, New York. A former slave, she became a leading abolitionist and women’s rights advocate. After a spiritual awakening in 1843, she changed her name to Sojourner Truth and devoted her life to speaking out against slavery and advocating for women's rights, spreading a powerful message of freedom and justice. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

Come by and see us at the PBS Kids Day Event!!

Come by and see us at the PBS Kids Day Event!!

#OnThisDay in 1887, Georgia O'Keeffe was born in S

#OnThisDay in 1887, Georgia O'Keeffe was born in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. She became a pioneering figure in 20th-century American art, known for her bold, abstract depictions of flowers, bones, and Southwestern landscapes. O'Keeffe transformed ordinary subjects into powerful works of art and was a key figure in American modernism. One of the first women to gain major recognition in the male-dominated art world, her work continues to inspire and is celebrated globally. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

#DidYouKnow that on November 14, 1851, Herman Melv

#DidYouKnow that on November 14, 1851, Herman Melville's Moby-Dick was first published? Initially a commercial failure, the novel's blend of adventure, symbolism, and deep themes was ahead of its time. It received mixed reviews but was later rediscovered as a literary masterpiece. Today, Moby-Dick is considered one of the greatest American novels, praised for its ambition and exploration of identity, obsession, and human knowledge. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

#DidYouKnow that on November 13, 1856, the great b

#DidYouKnow that on November 13, 1856, the great bell of Big Ben chimed for the first time in London? Cast at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, the 13-ton bell marked the beginning of its role as the iconic timekeeper of the British capital. Although the clock tower (later renamed Elizabeth Tower) was still under construction, the chimes were a test run. Over time, Big Ben's resonant sound has become one of the world's most recognizable symbols of London's history and the passage of time. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

Remember, the Postal History Foundation will be at

Remember, the Postal History Foundation will be at the PBS Kids Day Event!

📅 Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024
🕘 Time: 9 AM – 1 PM
📍 Location: Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S. 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

💰 Museum Admission: Pay-what-you-wish!

The Postal History Foundation will be hosting fun activities, including:
🔍 Stamp Scavenger Hunt
🎨 Stamp Bookmark Making
📮 Stamp Giveaways

We look forward to seeing you there!
More details: https://childrensmuseumtucson.org/pbs-kids-day/

#OnThisDay on November 12, 1929, Grace Kelly, the

#OnThisDay on November 12, 1929, Grace Kelly, the iconic American actress who later became Princess of Monaco, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Known for her poised elegance and striking beauty, she became one of Hollywood's biggest stars in the 1950s, starring in films like Rear Window (1954) and To Catch a Thief (1955), directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

On this Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the brave

On this Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. Their sacrifices and dedication to protecting our freedoms and way of life deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. Thank you to all who have served!🇺🇸

#DidYouKnow that in 1731, Benjamin Franklin founde

#DidYouKnow that in 1731, Benjamin Franklin founded the first public library in the American colonies, known as the Library Company of Philadelphia? This innovative institution was established to promote reading and the sharing of knowledge among the community. Franklin's vision was to create a place where people could access a wide range of books and resources, which he believed was essential for personal and societal improvement. The Library Company became a model for future libraries across the United States and played a significant role in the American Enlightenment. #PHF #phftucson #Philately #stampoftheday

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920 N 1st Ave Tucson AZ 85719
P 520-623-6652
E info@phftucson.org

The Postal History Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting people to postal history, philately, and the world of stamps to inspire curiosity and encourage the enjoyment of life-long learning.

Copyright © 2013-2024 Postal History Foundation

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George Washington Carver

Percy Lavon Julian

Charles R. Drew

Jan E. Matzeliger

George Washington Carver

Henry Ossawa Tanner

Robert Robinson Taylor

Henry Ossawa Tanner

Jean Baptiste Pointe Du Sable

Jean Baptiste Pointe Du Sable

Anna Julia Cooper

Booker T. Washington

Mary McLeod Bethune

Frederick Douglass

C Alfred "Chief" Anderson

Matthew Henson (with Robert E. Peary)

C Alfred "Chief" Anderson

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Carter G. Woodson

Whitney Moore Young

Sojourner Truth

A. Philip Randolph

Benjamin O. Davis, Sr.

Benjamin O. Davis, Sr.

Shirley Chisholm

Patricia Robert Harris

Clifton R. Wharton, Sr.

Thurgood Marshall

Shirley Chisholm

Benjamin Banneker

John H. Johnson

Madame C.J. Walker

Benjamin Banneker

Hattie McDaniel

Hattie McDaniel

Jackie Robinson

Sugar Ray Robinson

Wilt Chamberlain

Jackie Robinson

Gwendolyn Brooks

Charles W. Chestnut

Carter G. Woodson

James Weldon Johnson

Zora Neal Hurston

Langston Hughes

Paul Lawrence Dunbar

Music Legends

Dinah Washington

Louis Armstrong

Coleman Hawkins

Jelly Roll Morton

Musicians

Thelonious Monk

Clyde McPhatter

James R. Johnson

Singers and Songwriters

Marian Anderson

Ella Fitzgerald

Mahalia Jackson

Sister Rosetta Tharpe

Katherine Dunham

United States philately, 1969

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Worldwide philately, 1969

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Commemorations of the 1969 moon landing

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Letters from Home

“Another week gone and no newsman yet. These months—years perhaps—will to a certain extent be a blank to us. We know nothing of what is going on the states, nothing of the political maneuvers. President’s messages, doings of Congress, elections of senators and assemblymen and the thousand and one maneuvers of the day, riots, mobs, fires, rail-road accidents—in fact I shall be a kind of Rip van Winkle & it will require the first ten years after returning to learn what has taken place while away.”

–Letter from A.W. Genung in Curtissville, San Joaquin District to “Woodward,” Dec 16, 1849, from James W. Milgram’s The Western Mails.

Postcard postmarked Oatman, 1911

Cover postmarked Bisbee, Arizona, 1900

Cover postmarked Florence, Arizona, 1876

Postcard picturing Jerome, Arizona

Life in the Old West

Imagine leaving everything and everyone you know and moving across the country to live in the wilderness, hoping to make your fortune in gold, silver, or copper. Living 1000 miles or more away from home, the only way to talk to your family and friends, and the only way to know what was happening outside your immediate vicinity, was through letters and newspapers: the mail.

Postcard depicting man outside a cabin in Prescott

Promotional postcard from Globe depicting two men and a child at water pump

Image of teacher and students at Mayer school

Postcard depicting a prospector sifting with a rocker box

Mules, Wagons, and Well-Worn Routes

Mail, including letters, supplies, and goods, was often freighted in by steamship from San Francisco to the port of Yuma. From there, items either continued up river or were loaded onto wagons, coaches, and pack animals and taken out to towns and camps.

The stage lines and buckboard lines that carried mail and supplies also transported passengers on a regular basis between towns, sometimes requiring at least one overnight stay. These vehicles were extraordinarily uncomfortable, however. After making the much longer overland (cross-country) trip on stagecoach, journalist Waterman L. Ormsby famously said, “I NOW KNOW WHAT HELL IS LIKE. I’VE JUST HAD 24 DAYS OF IT.”

Cleator, Arizona, undated photograph

“Prospector on the Desert” unused postcard

Wilcox, Arizona, 1915, undated photograph

“For All Points Along the Colorado River”

Steamers left San Francisco for the Gulf of California every 20 days and then traveled up the Colorado River. The port at Yuma was a major artery in the delivery of supplies to Arizona.

The steamboats transported not only mail and goods, but also people. In 1874 Martha Summerhayes traveled on the steamboat Gila from Fort Yuma to Fort Mohave. In her book Vanished Arizona, she describes the conditions:

The staterooms “were always stuffy and noisy, and in the summer they were so suffocatingly hot.” In the dining room, “the metal handles of the knives were uncomfortably warm to the touch; and even the wooden arms of the chairs felt as if they were slowly igniting… A siesta was out of the question, as the staterooms were insufferable; and so we dragged out the weary days.”

Postcard postmarked 1910 depicting the Yuma landing on the Colorado River

Unused and undated postcard depicting the Yuma landing on the Colorado River

Colorado Steam Navigation Company advertisement

“Fastest Time and Best Stock”

Entrepreneurs from the Tucson area, such as Pinchney Tully, Estevan Ochoa, Pedro Aguirre, Mariano Samaniego, J.D. Kinnear, and William “Curly” Neal, provided much- needed services between short distances.

Tuffy Peach delivered mail on horseback three times a week between Camp Verde and Payson from 1910-1914. His route was 52 miles long, lasted 11 hours, and required one change of horse. When interviewed by the Arizona Philatelist in 1968, he described his work:

“I often had mail piled so high in front of me that I could hardly see where my horse was treading… “But, gosh, those horses knew the mail route better than the dispatch riders. We couldn’t get lost if we tried. Our horses wouldn’t let us.”

Clinton “Tuffy” Peach, Arizona Philatelist article, January 1968. Tuffy Peach delivered mail on horseback to and from Camp Verde, Arizona and Payson, Arizona from 1910-1914.

Pedro Aguirre unused cover.

Advertisement for Walker and Kinnear’s stage company.

Photograph of stage outside Hotel Nobles.

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