Capturing Michigan’s Frozen Beauty
On January 18, 2020, Michigan’s stunning winter scenery took center stage. A new United States Postal Service (USPS) Priority Mail Express stamp featuring the Grand Island Ice Caves was released. These breathtaking natural formations, located near Munising in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, are renowned for their ever-changing ice curtains and stalactite-like icicles. These formations transform Grand Island’s sandstone cliffs into a magical winter wonderland. This stamp, designed by Greg Breeding and illustrated by Dan Cosgrove, immortalizes one of Michigan’s most picturesque winter travel destinations.
Hiawatha National Forest
Grand Island, part of the Hiawatha National Forest, sits just a half mile off Munising’s coast in Lake Superior. While summer visitors can reach it by ferry for hiking, biking, and camping, winter access is more challenging—and risky. Snowmobiles or crossing the frozen lake on foot are the only ways to visit. Remember the safety of the ice is never guaranteed due to underlying currents. The USPS stamp allows everyone to enjoy the beauty of these elusive ice caves, even if they can’t experience them in person.
The journey to this iconic stamp began with a public suggestion, one of tens of thousands received annually by the USPS. Proposals are reviewed by the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee. They evaluate subjects based on their cultural, historical, or environmental significance. Once approved, the Grand Island project underwent extensive research and collaboration. This culminated into Cosgrove’s stunning artwork.
Dan Cosgrove
Cosgrove’s design captures the ice caves’ essence, blending the interplay of light, ice, and rock formations in a scene viewed from inside an ice cave at sunset. The artwork required a meticulous process, from conceptual sketches to a final high-resolution digital piece, ensuring the design remained vibrant and clear, even at stamp size.
The Grand Island Ice Caves stamp stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship behind USPS’s stamp program. Each stamp is a miniature masterpiece, combining storytelling, research, and security features. Printed by Ashton Potter, 1.26 million copies of the stamp were produced, celebrating Michigan’s icy splendor.
Beyond its artistic appeal, the stamp highlights the Grand Island National Recreation Area’s unique winter charm. While winter visits may be limited by safety concerns, the stamp provides a glimpse into this frozen wonderland, inspiring both locals and tourists.
The Stamp
Whether you’re a stamp collector, a Michigan native, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the Grand Island Ice Caves stamp offers a slice of winter magic. It’s a reminder of Michigan’s unique landscapes and the power of art to capture fleeting natural wonders.
The Grand Island Ice Caves stamp isn’t just a piece of postage. The stamp is a celebration of Michigan’s winter beauty and the artistry that brings it to life. Next time you see one, remember the effort, inspiration, and natural wonder it represents. Whether you’re mailing a letter or adding it to your collection, this stamp is a tiny window into a world of icy elegance.