A postage stamp honoring Lucy Stone, a prominent 19th-century American orator and activist central to the women’s suffrage movement, was issued by the United States Postal Service. The stamp typically features her portrait and is a collectible item for philatelists. It serves as a tangible representation of her contributions to social reform and women’s rights. An example can be found in numerous stamp catalogs and online databases specializing in U.S. postage.
Commemorating Stone on a postage stamp acknowledges her enduring legacy in advocating for gender equality. It serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by suffragists and the importance of their achievements. The stamp’s issuance contributes to public awareness of historical figures who championed crucial social changes. It symbolizes the progress made towards equal rights and encourages further reflection on the ongoing pursuit of social justice.
This exploration of the stamp provides a foundation for understanding the broader context of Lucy Stone’s life, work, and the historical significance of the women’s suffrage movement. Further investigation might include examining the design process of the stamp, its reception by the public, and its place within the larger narrative of philatelic history and social reform movements.
Tips for Researching and Appreciating the Lucy Stone Stamp
Engaging with historical artifacts like postage stamps requires a multifaceted approach. The following tips offer guidance for researching and appreciating the stamp honoring Lucy Stone.
Tip 1: Consult Reputable Philatelic Resources: Specialized stamp catalogs, such as the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers, provide detailed information regarding the stamp’s issuance date, design variations, and current market value. Online databases maintained by philatelic societies and auction houses also offer valuable resources.
Tip 2: Examine the Stamp’s Design Elements: Careful observation reveals the stamp’s iconography, including the portrait of Lucy Stone, any accompanying text, and the overall artistic style. Analyzing these elements can offer insights into the historical context and the message conveyed.
Tip 3: Research Lucy Stone’s Biography: Understanding the life and work of Lucy Stone provides a deeper appreciation for the stamp’s significance. Biographical resources shed light on her contributions to the women’s suffrage movement and her enduring impact on social reform.
Tip 4: Explore the Historical Context of the Stamp’s Issuance: Investigating the social and political climate surrounding the stamp’s release enhances understanding of its intended purpose and reception by the public.
Tip 5: Consider the Stamp’s Place within the Larger Suffrage Movement: Examining the stamp alongside other commemorative efforts dedicated to the women’s suffrage movement provides a broader perspective on the historical narrative.
Tip 6: Connect the Stamp to Contemporary Social Justice Issues: Reflecting on the stamp’s message in relation to ongoing struggles for equality fosters a deeper understanding of its continued relevance.
By employing these strategies, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the Lucy Stone stamp’s historical, social, and cultural significance. This approach fosters an enriched appreciation for both the artifact itself and the individual it commemorates.
These tips provide a pathway for further exploration of the stamps significance and its connection to broader historical themes. A deeper understanding enriches appreciation for both the artifact and the individual it represents.
1. Commemoration
Commemoration, the act of remembering and honoring significant individuals and events, finds a tangible expression in postage stamps. The Lucy Stone stamp exemplifies this commemorative function, serving as a lasting tribute to her contributions to the women’s suffrage movement and broader social reform efforts. This section explores the multifaceted aspects of commemoration embodied by this stamp.
- Recognition of Achievement
The stamp acknowledges Stone’s pivotal role in advocating for women’s rights. Her tireless efforts in public speaking, organizing, and writing significantly advanced the cause of suffrage. The stamp serves as formal recognition of these achievements, ensuring her contributions are not forgotten. For example, its presence on mail circulated throughout the nation brought her image and legacy to a broad audience, fostering a sense of shared history and inspiring future generations.
- Symbol of Progress
The issuance of the Lucy Stone stamp signifies societal progress towards gender equality. It represents a milestone in the recognition of women’s contributions to social and political change. The act of commemorating Stone through a nationally distributed stamp reflects a shift in societal values and a growing appreciation for her role in advancing women’s rights. This symbolic gesture reinforces the importance of continued progress toward equality.
- Educational Tool
The stamp functions as a miniaturized historical artifact, prompting individuals to learn more about Lucy Stone and the women’s suffrage movement. Its presence on letters and packages sparks curiosity and encourages further exploration of her life and work. This educational function contributes to a wider understanding of the historical context surrounding the struggle for equal rights. For instance, encountering the stamp might lead someone to research Stone’s speeches, writings, or the organizations she founded.
- Preservation of Legacy
The Lucy Stone stamp ensures that her legacy endures beyond her lifetime. By circulating her image and name across the country, the stamp solidifies her place in history and keeps her story alive for future generations. This act of preservation safeguards her contributions from fading into obscurity. It serves as a tangible reminder of the sacrifices and dedication required to achieve significant social change, inspiring continued efforts toward equality and justice.
These interconnected facets of commemoration highlight the profound significance of the Lucy Stone stamp. It is not merely a postage stamp, but a powerful symbol of recognition, progress, education, and preservation, contributing to a deeper understanding of Lucy Stone’s enduring impact on American history and the ongoing pursuit of social justice. Its existence serves as a continuous reminder of the importance of commemorating those who have fought for a more equitable and just society.
2. Suffragist Icon
The connection between “suffragist icon” and the Lucy Stone postage stamp is fundamental to understanding the stamp’s significance. The stamp doesn’t merely depict Lucy Stone; it actively constructs and reinforces her image as a key figure in the fight for women’s suffrage. This iconic representation serves several crucial purposes. It elevates Stone’s visibility within the broader historical narrative, solidifying her place among other leading suffragists. The stamp’s circulation effectively disseminates this image to a wide audience, reaching beyond those already familiar with her work. This act of visual commemoration contributes significantly to the ongoing cultural memory of the suffrage movement. For example, a young person encountering the stamp on a letter might be prompted to research Stone’s life and contributions, thereby fostering intergenerational understanding of this critical period in history.
Furthermore, the “suffragist icon” status conveyed by the stamp has practical implications. It reinforces the legitimacy and importance of the suffrage movement itself. By honoring one of its leading figures, the stamp implicitly validates the struggle for voting rights and gender equality. This can inspire continued advocacy and activism for related social justice issues. Consider the impact of seeing Stone’s image on a stamp alongside those of other significant historical figures. This placement within a pantheon of national heroes further solidifies her importance and, by extension, the importance of the movement she represented. This visual representation acts as a constant reminder of the progress made and the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting and expanding those rights.
In summary, the Lucy Stone postage stamp serves as a powerful vehicle for establishing and perpetuating Stone’s status as a suffragist icon. This iconic representation contributes significantly to public understanding of the women’s suffrage movement, legitimizes the struggle for equal rights, and can inspire continued activism for social justice. The stamp’s enduring presence in philatelic collections and its potential to reach new audiences ensures that Stone’s legacy, and the larger narrative of the suffrage movement, continues to resonate with future generations. Challenges remain in ensuring that this historical context is accurately understood and interpreted. Connecting the stamp’s message to contemporary social justice movements helps bridge the gap between past struggles and present-day concerns.
3. Social Reform
The Lucy Stone postage stamp represents more than just an individual; it embodies the broader context of 19th-century social reform movements, particularly the fight for women’s suffrage. Stone’s activism extended beyond suffrage, encompassing advocacy for married women’s property rights and challenging traditional gender roles. The stamp, therefore, serves as a tangible symbol of these interconnected reform efforts. The very act of issuing a stamp honoring a woman who challenged societal norms represents a degree of social progress in itself. Consider the historical context: in Stone’s time, women were largely excluded from the public sphere. Commemorating her on a postage stamp signifies a shift in societal attitudes and a growing recognition of women’s contributions to public life. For example, the stamp’s circulation through the postal system exposed a wider audience to Stone’s image and, by extension, to the ideas she represented. This exposure played a role in normalizing the concept of women as active participants in social and political discourse.
Further analysis reveals a cause-and-effect relationship between Stone’s activism and the eventual achievement of women’s suffrage. Her tireless advocacy, alongside that of other suffragists, created the necessary social and political pressure for legislative change. The stamp, issued decades after the initial struggle began, acts as a marker of this historical trajectory. It acknowledges the long-fought battle for equal rights and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting those rights. One practical significance of understanding this connection lies in recognizing how individual actions can contribute to broader social change. Stone’s dedication to social reform, symbolized by the stamp, illustrates the potential for individual agency to effect meaningful societal transformation. Studying her life and work can inspire continued activism and engagement in contemporary social justice movements. For example, the stamp can spark discussions about current inequalities and motivate individuals to participate in efforts to create a more just and equitable society.
In summary, the Lucy Stone postage stamp is inextricably linked to the larger narrative of 19th-century social reform. It commemorates a pivotal figure in the fight for women’s rights, symbolizes societal progress, and serves as a reminder of the power of individual action to drive social change. While the stamp represents a historical achievement, it also underscores the ongoing nature of the struggle for equality. Connecting Stone’s legacy to present-day social justice issues allows for a deeper understanding of the challenges that remain and the continued need for advocacy and reform. This understanding can help bridge the gap between historical struggles and contemporary concerns, fostering a more nuanced perspective on the complexities of social change.
4. Philatelic Collectible
The Lucy Stone postage stamp occupies a significant position within philately, the study and collection of postage stamps. Its status as a philatelic collectible derives from several factors, including its historical significance, its association with a prominent figure in the women’s suffrage movement, and its potential rarity depending on specific print runs and variations. As a collectible, the stamp transcends its purely utilitarian function as postage and becomes an object of historical and cultural value. This value is often reflected in its market price, which can fluctuate based on demand and condition. For instance, a first-day cover featuring the Lucy Stone stamp, especially one with a clear postmark and potentially an autograph, might command a higher price than a used stamp in poor condition. Specialized stamp catalogs, such as the Scott catalogue, provide detailed information on pricing and variations, guiding collectors in their acquisitions.
The stamp’s presence in philatelic collections contributes to the preservation of Lucy Stone’s legacy. Collectors often meticulously curate and document their holdings, creating a tangible record of historical figures and events. Thematic collections focusing on women’s suffrage or American history frequently include the Lucy Stone stamp, placing her within a broader narrative of social and political change. This contextualization enhances understanding of her contributions and the historical period in which she lived. Furthermore, philatelic exhibitions and societies provide platforms for sharing knowledge and showcasing these collections, furthering public awareness of Stone’s legacy. For example, a philatelic exhibit focusing on women’s suffrage might feature the Lucy Stone stamp alongside related materials, such as letters, postcards, and other ephemera, creating a richer and more engaging historical narrative.
In summary, the Lucy Stone postage stamp holds a dual significance: as a functional piece of postage and as a valued philatelic collectible. Its inclusion in stamp collections contributes to the preservation of historical memory, facilitates research, and fosters public engagement with the history of women’s suffrage and social reform. The stamp’s market value, driven by factors such as rarity and condition, reflects its desirability within the philatelic community. However, the true value of the stamp extends beyond its monetary worth, residing in its ability to connect individuals with a pivotal moment in American history and inspire further exploration of the ongoing struggle for equality. Challenges remain in ensuring accurate historical representation and combating the potential for commodification of historical artifacts. Connecting philatelic interests with robust historical research provides a more nuanced and meaningful understanding of the Lucy Stone stamp and its enduring legacy.
5. Historical Artifact
The Lucy Stone postage stamp functions as a historical artifact, providing tangible evidence of a specific historical period and the social movements within it. Its significance extends beyond its utilitarian purpose, offering insights into the cultural, political, and social contexts surrounding its creation and usage. Examining the stamp as a historical artifact requires considering its various facets.
- Primary Source Material
The stamp serves as a primary source, offering direct evidence of the past. Its design, imagery, and date of issue provide valuable information about the historical context of its creation. For example, the stamp’s portrait of Lucy Stone and the inscription commemorating her role in the women’s suffrage movement directly connect it to this historical period. Researchers can use the stamp as a starting point for further investigation into the suffrage movement and Stone’s contributions. The stamp’s existence also reflects the changing social and political landscape, demonstrating a growing recognition of women’s contributions to public life.
- Cultural Representation
The stamp reflects the cultural values and priorities of the time it was issued. The decision to commemorate Lucy Stone highlights the growing recognition of women’s rights and the importance of social reform movements. The stamp’s design and imagery contribute to the cultural narrative surrounding Stone and the suffrage movement, shaping public perception and understanding. Comparing the stamp to other commemorative stamps issued during the same period can reveal broader cultural trends and priorities. For instance, the presence or absence of stamps honoring other women or social reformers provides insights into the relative importance assigned to these figures and movements.
- Material Culture
As an object of material culture, the stamp embodies the technology and design aesthetics of its time. The printing techniques, paper quality, and overall design reflect the technological advancements and artistic styles prevalent during the period of its creation. Analyzing these material aspects offers insights into the production and distribution of stamps as well as the broader historical context. For example, examining changes in stamp production techniques over time can reveal technological advancements within the printing industry. The stamp’s material composition can also offer clues about its age and authenticity.
- Window into the Past
The stamp provides a unique window into the past, connecting present-day observers with historical figures and events. Encountering the stamp can spark curiosity and encourage further exploration of Lucy Stone’s life, the women’s suffrage movement, and the broader context of social reform in the 19th and 20th centuries. This connection to the past fosters a deeper understanding of historical struggles and their relevance to contemporary issues. For instance, researching the historical context surrounding the stamp’s creation can illuminate the challenges faced by suffragists and the strategies they employed to achieve their goals. This understanding can inform present-day social justice movements and inspire continued advocacy for equality.
These facets collectively contribute to the Lucy Stone postage stamp’s significance as a historical artifact. The stamp not only commemorates an individual but also provides valuable insights into the cultural, social, and political climate of its time. Studying the stamp as a historical artifact allows for a richer and more nuanced understanding of Lucy Stone’s legacy and the broader historical context of the women’s suffrage movement. This understanding fosters a deeper appreciation for the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of preserving historical memory through tangible objects like postage stamps. Further exploration might involve comparing the stamp to other commemorative artifacts from the same period or tracing its impact on public awareness of the women’s suffrage movement.
6. Visual Representation
The visual representation offered by the Lucy Stone postage stamp plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and understanding of her legacy. The stamp’s design, featuring Stone’s portrait, immediately identifies her as the subject of commemoration. This visual identification is critical for disseminating her image to a broad audience, many of whom might be unfamiliar with her contributions to the women’s suffrage movement. The choice of imagery, often a formal portrait, contributes to constructing a specific image of Stone as a serious and determined activist. This visual representation solidifies her image as a leader and reinforces the seriousness of the cause she championed. For example, the use of a dignified portrait, as opposed to a more casual image, conveys a sense of respect and authority, contributing to her iconic status. The stamp’s visual elements, such as font choices and accompanying text, further contextualize her within the suffrage movement.
Further analysis reveals the power of visual representation in shaping collective memory. The widespread circulation of the stamp through the postal system ensured that Stone’s image reached a vast audience, embedding her within the national consciousness. This visual repetition reinforces her importance and contributes to the long-term preservation of her legacy. Consider the impact of seeing Stone’s image on countless letters and packages over time. This repeated exposure normalizes her presence within the public sphere and contributes to a greater acceptance of women as leaders and agents of social change. The stamp’s visual accessibility also plays a crucial role in engaging individuals who might not otherwise encounter historical narratives through traditional means. A simple visual encounter with the stamp can spark curiosity and prompt further investigation into Stone’s life and work, demonstrating the practical significance of visual representation in fostering historical understanding.
In summary, the visual representation embodied by the Lucy Stone postage stamp is essential for communicating her historical significance and ensuring the enduring recognition of her contributions to social reform. The stamp’s design choices, widespread circulation, and accessibility contribute to the construction of Stone’s image as a suffragist icon and solidify her place within the broader historical narrative. Challenges remain in ensuring the accuracy and complexity of visual representations, particularly given the limited space available on a postage stamp. Further research exploring the design choices and public reception of the stamp can offer a more nuanced understanding of its impact on shaping public memory and historical understanding. Connecting this analysis to the broader theme of visual representation in historical commemoration allows for a deeper appreciation of the power of images to shape our understanding of the past and inspire action in the present.
7. Enduring Legacy
The Lucy Stone postage stamp plays a vital role in perpetuating Stone’s enduring legacy. The stamp acts as a tangible reminder of her contributions to social reform and the women’s suffrage movement, ensuring her work remains relevant and recognized generations later. This continued relevance is not merely passive; the stamp actively shapes public understanding of Stone’s historical significance. Cause and effect are clearly intertwined: the act of commemorating Stone on a postage stamp directly contributes to the preservation and dissemination of her story. Without such commemorative efforts, historical figures can fade from public memory. The stamp, through its widespread circulation and enduring presence in philatelic collections, actively combats this potential erasure. For example, a young person encountering the stamp might be inspired to research Stone’s life, thereby connecting with her legacy in a meaningful way. The stamp’s existence ensures that Stone’s story continues to be told, shaping perceptions of women’s roles in social and political change.
Further analysis reveals the stamp’s function as a symbolic representation of the broader struggle for women’s rights. Stone’s individual legacy becomes intertwined with the larger narrative of social reform. The stamp, therefore, serves not only as a commemoration of a single individual but also as an embodiment of the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. This broader significance elevates the stamp’s importance beyond its purely commemorative function. It transforms the stamp into a symbol of progress and a reminder of the unfinished work of social justice. Consider the stamp’s placement within a historical timeline. It represents a milestone in the journey towards equal rights, marking a moment of societal recognition of women’s contributions. This placement underscores the enduring nature of the struggle for equality and inspires continued activism. Practical applications of this understanding include incorporating the stamp into educational materials about the women’s suffrage movement or using it as a starting point for discussions about contemporary social justice issues.
In summary, the Lucy Stone postage stamp is instrumental in securing Stone’s enduring legacy. The stamp’s function as a tangible reminder, its contribution to shaping public understanding, and its symbolic representation of the broader struggle for women’s rights ensure that Stone’s work remains relevant and impactful. Challenges remain in ensuring accurate and nuanced portrayals of historical figures within the constraints of a postage stamp’s limited space. Connecting Stone’s individual legacy to the larger theme of social reform provides a deeper understanding of the stamp’s significance and its potential to inspire continued activism for social justice. This understanding bridges the gap between historical commemoration and contemporary action, highlighting the ongoing relevance of Stone’s contributions to present-day struggles for equality.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Lucy Stone postage stamp, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: When was the Lucy Stone postage stamp issued?
The United States Postal Service issued the Lucy Stone stamp on July 13, 1986, as part of the Great Americans series.
Question 2: What is the denomination of the Lucy Stone stamp?
The stamp was initially issued as a 22-cent stamp, reflecting the first-class postage rate at the time.
Question 3: Who designed the Lucy Stone stamp?
The stamp was designed by Bradbury Thompson.
Question 4: Where can one obtain a Lucy Stone stamp?
Lucy Stone stamps can be found through various channels, including stamp dealers, online marketplaces specializing in philatelic materials, and occasionally at stamp shows or auctions. Availability might vary depending on the specific stamp and its condition.
Question 5: Why was Lucy Stone chosen to be featured on a postage stamp?
Stone’s selection for commemoration recognizes her significant contributions to the women’s suffrage movement and her broader advocacy for social reform, including married women’s property rights. Her tireless efforts as an orator, writer, and organizer made her a prominent figure in 19th-century social reform movements.
Question 6: What is the significance of the Lucy Stone stamp beyond its postal function?
The stamp serves as a historical artifact, providing insights into the social and political context of its time. Furthermore, it functions as a symbol of the struggle for women’s rights and a lasting tribute to Stone’s enduring legacy. Its presence in philatelic collections contributes to preserving historical memory and fostering public engagement with the history of social reform.
Understanding these key aspects of the Lucy Stone stamp provides a foundation for appreciating its historical and cultural significance. It commemorates a pivotal figure in American history and symbolizes the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.
Further exploration into the life and work of Lucy Stone and the broader context of the women’s suffrage movement offers a richer understanding of this important historical period. The following sections delve deeper into these themes, providing additional context and insights.
Conclusion
Exploration of the Lucy Stone postage stamp reveals its multifaceted significance. It serves not only as a philatelic artifact but also as a powerful symbol of social reform, women’s suffrage, and the enduring legacy of a pivotal figure in American history. Analysis of its historical context, visual representation, and commemorative function underscores its importance within both philatelic and broader historical narratives. The stamp’s existence ensures continued engagement with Stone’s contributions and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
The stamp’s enduring presence serves as a call to action, encouraging further exploration of Lucy Stone’s life, the women’s suffrage movement, and the broader context of social reform. Continued engagement with these historical narratives remains essential for understanding present-day social justice issues and inspiring continued progress toward a more equitable future. The Lucy Stone postage stamp stands as a tangible reminder of the power of individual action to effect lasting societal change and the importance of commemorating those who have championed the cause of justice and equality.
