A Stamp of Recognition
On November 20, 2018, the United States Postal Service (USPS) unveiled a stunning stamp featuring the Ontonagon River. The river is a breathtaking 25-mile waterway flowing through Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula to Lake Superior. Captured by renowned photographer Tim Palmer, this stamp is part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers series. The series honors America’s unaltered rivers.
The Ontonagon River: A Natural Gem
The Ontonagon River has been celebrated for its natural beauty and ecological significance. It is one of twelve rivers featured in the Wild and Scenic Rivers series. The series was part of the USPS’s 2019 Forever Stamp lineup. This program, has highlighted unique aspects of American history and culture since 1847. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the nation’s natural landscapes.
Sections of the Ontonagon River were designated as wild and scenic in 1992. The purpose is to protect these beautiful waterways for future generations. The stamp serves as a poignant reminder of the value of preserving our natural environment. As U.S. Postal Service Stamp Services Executive Director Mary-Anne Penner noted, “These miniature works of art offer something for everyone’s interest about American history and culture.”
The Significance of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Program
The Wild and Scenic Rivers program was established by Congress in 1968. The purpose was to preserve rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition. According to the National Park Service, the Ontonagon River, with 43 miles designated as wild and an additional 35 miles listed as scenic, falls within this important initiative. This designation highlights the river’s accessibility and the level of development along its banks.
Currently, the Wild and Scenic Rivers System protects 209 rivers across 40 states and Puerto Rico, covering a total of 12,754 miles. The Ontonagon River’s inclusion in this program underscores its ecological and recreational significance. Plus, drawing attention to the natural beauty that Michigan has to offer.
A Celebration of American Heritage
The stamp showcasing the Ontonagon River depicts what appears to be Kakabika Falls. The falls are on the Cisco Branch of the river in Gogebic County, as reported by the Ironwood Daily Globe. It stands alongside other stamps in the series that celebrate America’s diverse heritage, including figures like legendary poet Walt Whitman and entertainer Gregory Hines. Each stamp in the program serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of American history and culture.
The USPS 2019 Forever Stamp lineup features approximately 20 diverse designs. Each series tells a story about different aspects of the nation. As Mary-Anne Penner stated, “This program is diverse and wide-ranging and tells America’s story on stamps.” The inclusion of the Ontonagon River in this collection highlights the natural beauty that remains an integral part of America’s identity.
The stamp reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our natural landscapes and the stories they tell. The Ontonagon River not only enriches Michigan’s cultural landscape but also serves as a vital reminder of our collective responsibility to preserve the environment for generations to come.
Learn more about the rich history of the Western Upper Peninsula.
