Henry David Thoreau

Henry David Thoreau Stamp, Forever USA, 2017

The U.S. postal service celebrated the bicentennial year of Thoreau's birth with a Forever stamp, released on May 23, 2017. The first-day-issue stamp dedication ceremony took place at the Walden Pond State Reservation Visitors Center. Thoreau, born July 12, 1817, lived at Walden Pond from 1845-1847. His experience there served as the inspiration for his book Walden.

The stamp art is an oil-on-panel painting of Thoreau's face based on a famous 1856 daguerreotype by Benjamin Maxham. On the right side of the stamp is Thoreau's signature of his last name. Below the signature is a branch of sumac leaves. Sam Weber Brooklyn, NY, was the stamp artist. Art director Greg Breeding of Charlottesville, VA, designed the stamp.

"Thoreau was one of the great thinkers in this country's history on a wide variety of subjects, and the expression on his face in the stamp image captures his introspective and inquisitive nature," said U.S. Postal Service General Counsel and Executive Vice President Thomas J. Marshall. "Thoreau encouraged everyone to lead more thoughtful and considered lives. Given the pace of today's world, the many demands on our time, and sometimes conflicting priorities, I am sure we could all benefit from his advice."

Ed Begley, Jr. a board member of the Walden Woods Project, said "Thoreau holds a significant place in the history of our country. The commemorative stamp not only celebrates the 200th anniversary of his birth, but reminds us of his continuing influence regarding 21st century global environmental and social reform challenges."

Thoreau's Legacy
With his personal example of simple living, his criticism of materialism, and the questions he raises about the place of the individual in society and humanity's role in the natural world, Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862) continues to inspire readers to assert their independence, reinterpret his legacy, and ask challenging questions of their own.

With Thoreau's personal example of simple living, his criticism of materialism, and the timeless questions he raises about the place of the individual in society and humanity's role in the natural world, he continues to inspire new generations to assert their independence, reinterpret his legacy, and ask challenging questions of their own.

More info from the USPS regarding the Thoreau Forever 2017 Postage Stamp.

Dual - 2017 and 1967 Stamp - First Day Cover by KSC Cachets