Philatelic Society of Lancaster County
The James Buchanan Chapter #173 of the American Philatelic Society
Chapter 118 of the American Topical Association
Society Meetings Archive & Photo Journal
This page contains images of Society events throughout the years, e.g, Holiday Dinner, Club Meetings, Guest Lecturers, Picnics and other events. If you have images to share, please contact Dr. Charles J. DiComo.
On September 8, 28+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order and held a moment of silence in honor of the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Paul then welcomed our newest member Laura Duncan and shared a membership update. Lou then reported on the Society treasury, and that we are in the process of donating a portion of our Exhibit Frames to the Brandywine Stamp Club in Delaware. After a screen vote to approve the last two meetings minutes, Paul then introduced our guest speaker Patricia A. Kaufmann.
Trish spoke on 
The Madison Florida 1861 Postmaster’s Provisionals. This is Trish’s definitive research on the 3 Cents 1861 Postmaster Provisionals, published jointly in both the 1984 and 2000 American Philatelist and the Confederate Philatelist, that resulted in an entirely new Confederate section in the 2000 Scott Specialized Catalogue, as well as the CSA Catalog. Her research on the Madison Provisionals was a 16-year project, which ultimately disproved the misconception of over a century of prior catalog listings – both U.S. and Confederate. Her 2000 article, dedicated solely to the Madison C.H., Florida, 3-cents postmaster provisionals, was a watershed moment for Confederate philately.
The program traced her efforts from 1984, when the Madison provisionals were not accepted as genuine by the philatelic community, to their ultimate acceptance in 2000. There are only six recorded 3-cent Madison provisionals recorded, only one of which is known on cover, and a unique 5-cents Confederate rate Madison provisional. After a lively Q&A session, David Hunt shared a few of his confederate items which prompted even more question.
This was then followed by Charles J. DiComo, PhD – who presented A New Discovery: An Unlisted All-Over Double Transfer on the U.S. Private Die Proprietary Medicine Stamp RS151 of Johnston, Holloway & Co.. Both video presentations are also available on our YouTube Channel – Enjoy!
On August 25, 20+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests, shared a membership update and the excellent turnout for our Annual Picnic a few weeks ago. We then moved on to our guest speaker for the evening.
Award-winning exhibitor and author Roger Brody spoke on Jamestown 1907. The presentation gave the historical background and the development, production and use of the three-stamp issue celebrating the 300th Anniversary of the 1607 English settlement of Jamestown, Virginia. In early 1903, the Virginia Historical Society petitioned the Post Office Department to issue special stamps to commemorate the Jamestown founding in conjunction with the 1907 Tercentennial Exposition on the shores of Hampton Roads, Virginia. Unlike previous fairs, the exposition had a strong military presence and international naval participation. In October 1906, the Post Office Department agreed to issue 1¢ and 2¢ Jamestown commemorative stamps to meet the domestic postcard and letter rates, respectively. In March 1907, a month before the Exposition opening, with the expected assemblage of foreign war ships, postal officials saw the need for a 5¢ stamp to meet the foreign postage letter rate. A lively Q&A followed, and we are looking forward to having Roger back in the future. Enjoy his presentation Jamestown 1907.
Our Show & Tell then followed, with a number of items shared by our members and guests, including Larry Rosenblum’s short presentation on A Brief Story of the High-Life Casino in Dinard. Also enjoy his video presentation on our YouTube Channel, along with Roger’s and many presenters.
On August 11, ~25+ members and friends met at Millersville Memorial Park for our annual Society Summer Picnic. A great time was had by all – we held a successful silent auction, and there were plenty of door prizes and giveaways to put smiles on attendees faces. And while a few storms blew through, the Pavilion kept all attendees dry – we know that stamps, postal history and water do not mix!
Can’t wait for next year! We thank all that attended and Paul, Lou and all our volunteers who helped set-up, oversee the auction and break-down. Enjoy a few pix below.
On July 28, 32+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests, shared a membership update and reminded all of our Society Picnic on August 11 at Millersville Park. We then moved on to our guest speaker for the evening.
Jesse Spector, MD led an open discussion entitled Philately in the 21st Century. The Train has left the station. Are you onboard? When in the late 1990s he was encouraged by an ardent philatelist to resurrect the hobby of his youth, Jesse returned to stamp collecting with a passion. 
Over a decade he built up extensive U.S., British North America, and Finland collections. Granted, quality was less a concern than filling up empty spaces. And oh, the pleasure of eclectic back of the book collecting. So, what then, with his pleasure at a high, was the seemingly concurrent paradox of membership in philatelic societies and clubs dropping, even precipitously, venerable publications barely surviving or going out of existence, and jam-packed aisles at philatelic shows often now but a distant memory. We all know the answer, albeit reluctantly accepted, that times change. George Bernard Shaw opined that “progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” Well then, if progress is inevitable, and that includes buggy whips, oil lamps, ice boxes and rug beaters going by the wayside, are certain avocations also on the chopping block. An excellent discussion followed. This was then followed by our ever popular Show & Tell.
On July 14, 35+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President Charles J. DiComo, PhD called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. Paul shared a membership update (we are at 138 members) and reminded all that dues are overdue. Lou gave a Treasury Report, which was approved by all digitally. We then moved on to our guest speaker for the evening.
Mark Schwartz, acclaimed author, award-winning exhibitor and ambassador of philately, presented his Champion of Champions, Single-Frame Exhibit entitled Boston’s Use of the 1847 Issue: America’s First Stamps from America’s First Post Office. The Act of Congress, March 3, 1845 (effective July 1), established new and simplified rates. Letters sent up to 300 miles were charged 5¢ per ½ oz., and those sent over 300 miles, 10¢ per ½ oz. Section 11 of the Act of Congress, March 3, 1847, authorized Postmaster General Cave Johnson to prepare and issue postage stamps. He contracted with Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson to prepare both 5¢ and 10¢ adhesives. These stamps were issued on July 1 of that year. Beginning on July 2 and over the next 4 years, Boston would receive 401,000 5¢ stamps and 41,000 10¢ stamps, a number exceeded only by New York and Philadelphia. All attendees were treated to a fantastic lecture, with artifacts of major importance and rarity, followed by a lively Q&A session. We look forward to having Mark back in the very near future.
Visit our PSLC YouTube Channel for the recording and enjoy his PDF presentation here: “Boston’s Use of the 1847 Issue: America’s First Stamps from America’s First Post Office”.
This was then followed by our ever popular Show & Tell, where Larry Rosenblum shared a short presentation entitled An Irish Beer Mat/Coaster Used As Postal Stationery; Larry also updated us on the collar stiffener mailed after the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco, CA by showing the address side (and there is a postmark!); Dr. DiComo shared an uncommon used of a Boston Carrier tied to a cover but mostly hidden underneath a U.S. 3 Cent 1851-57 stamp used from Boston, MA; and Bob Noble closed the evening with a color variety/changling of a U.S. 2 Cents Documentary Revenue stamp.
On June 23, 27+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President Charles J. DiComo, PhD called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. Paul shared a membership update, reminded all that dues are due and shared an update from Len Kasper (do keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers). We then moved on to our guest speaker for the evening.
Bob Toal discussed Livermore and Knight-Printed Matter Advertising Cards: 1890-1919. Starting around 1892, this company produced some of the most creative and innovative advertising postcards ever. Themes on these stock cards were driven by prevailing newspaper headlines, timely social topics, or the holiday seasons. The overview displayed various examples of the cards and the products they advertised. These cards make great additions to topical collections and exhibits. Enjoy his presentation: Printed Matter Advertising Cards of Livermore & Knight Co.: 1891-1918.
After a Q&A session, we moved on to our Show & Tell. Cathy Kotanchik presented a Machin Mystery. Enjoy: A Machin Mystery. Dr. DiComo shared a recent discovery of a rare double transfer on a U.S. Private Die Proprietary Perfume Revenue stamp from Woodworth & Son. Enjoy: A Brief History and Examination of the C.B. Woodworth & Son Imperishable Perfumes Company and the scarce RT20b Double Transfer Private Die Proprietary Stamp. George Hauber presented a number of recent Censored Cover finds from the WWII era. Enjoy: WWII Censored Covers. Larry Rosenblum shared a piece of postal history written on a collar stiffener sent after the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco, CA.
On June 9, 35+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President Charles J. DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. Paul shared a membership update, reminded all that dues are due and Lou followed with a Treasurer’s Report. We then moved on to our guest speaker for the evening.
Paul introduced our good friend Rick Barrett, and the title of the evenings talk was Niagara Falls and Philately. Rick took us on a marvelous philatelic trip over Niagara Falls – he guided us through a fun and fast-paced presentation which was especially attractive to stamp collectors, as well as those who enjoy a good travelogue. Rick showed us many interesting examples of The Falls on stamps, as well as postal history pertaining to Niagara. Plus, there’s some absolutely fantastic history of Rick’s family that we were pleased he shared. Rick’s presentation can be viewed on our YouTube Channel here: 
Niagara Falls on Stamps. Please stop by, view our other lectures and Subscribe to be kept up to date when new content is posted.
This was then followed by our ever popular Show & Tell, where Al Schaub, Scott Ney and Mike Bach led the discussion with short presentations and Q&A. Enjoy
Fathers and Sons, Baseball Players Postcards to Their Fans, by Scott Ney.
A Story in 5 Picture Postcards (PPCs), by Al Schaub.
An Ordinary 1890 Great Britain Cover, Or Is It?, by Mike Bach.
On May 26, 30+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees and guests. Our guest speaker this evening was Cemil Betanov, who spoke on Mail Wrappers: An Introduction, Foreign & Domestic. Issued by the U.S. in 1861 and then in other countries, these wrappers, a form of postal stationary contained the franking and address space to practically convey the items through the mail stream. For collectors, there is a lot to study from the postal history, paper types, indicia, printing houses, essays, watermarks, and many others. These can be hard to find intact, as they were often ripped and discarded. Early collectors cut the indicia from the wrapper. Enjoy the presentation that follows: Collecting Newspaper Wrappers. This was follow by Q&A and our ever popular Show & Tell.
On May 16, ~40 members and guests joined us for the Philatelic Society of Lancaster County’s Inaugural Member’s Outdoor Sunday Bourse at Millersville Memorial Park. There were 10+ dealers with tables of stamps, covers and supplies, along with the Society table of giveaways and club donations. Folks really seemed glad to see one another after >1 year apart and the weather held out for the entire afternoon. We thank all that attended and hopefully we can do a similar event at a future date. See you at our August Picnic at Millersville Park…
On May 12, 30+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President Charles J. DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees and guests. A short business meeting was held, with Membership and Treasurer’s Reports, and a reminder to please send in your dues. The Society now at 141 active members and growing. Paul reminded all that this Sunday, May 16 we will be holding out Inaugural Member’s Outdoor Sunday Bourse from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Millersville Memorial Park.
Paul then introduced our guest speaker, Ron Majors, who lectured on his award-winning exhibit entitled Canada/British No. America (BNA)-Union and Confederate Postal Cross Border Correspondence during the U.S. Civil War. The U.S. Civil War was an uneasy time of relationships between pre-Confederation Canada and both the Union and the Confederacy. The border was virtually open and there were Canadians living in both the Northern and the Southern States. However, once the war commenced, President Lincoln imposed a blockade of the Southern Coast and merchandize and mail to/from the South to Canada (and other countries) virtually stopped. Although mail from the Union and Union-occupied Southern cities was barely affected, there were only a few (and extremely difficult) methods where mail could be delivered to/from the South such as blockade runners, flag of truce, prisoner of war exchange, hand carried, etc.
Ron spoke about how postal communications between Canada and the Union and Confederacy were affected before, during and after the war. Using illustrated and non-illustrated covers and letters, he showed the sentiment of the general public during this time as well typical and atypical means of correspondence that took place. In addition, over 50,000 Canadians fought in the war and communications by military personnel sent cross border and even within Canada/BNA helps to understand the more personal side of the War. Patriotism flourished during the Civil War and beautifully illustrated patriotic covers were an important symbol used to reflect support and many examples will be shown during this presentation. Canada/British North America (BNA)-Union and Confederate Postal Cross Border Correspondence during the U.S. Civil War: 1859-1867.
This was then followed by our ever popular Show & Tell. George Hauber led the session with his presentation entitled Two End-of-War Covers from the Phillipine Isles. Enjoy!
On April 28, 30+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President Charles J. DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. He then shared the success of the past weekends 2-day Stamp Show at the Farm & Home Center – moderated by Kevin Kellman – 12 dealers and 150+ attendees led to smiles under everyone’s masks. Paul then shared a membership update, discussed dues renewals and reminded all to hold the May 16 for our outside spring Stamp Flea Market at Millersville Park.
We then proceeded with this evenings keynote speaker Ron Lesher, who’s presentation was entitled “Doc, I need a drink”: Events and Revenues Leading to the Prohibition. This stellar lecture featured the taxation of legal alcohol during National Prohibition. It included prescriptions for medicinal alcohol, sacramental wine, and industrial or non-beverage alcohol. The story of National Prohibition includes a chapter of one state that thought they could allow the sale of alcohol if they taxed it and another chapter on some efforts to discourage home brewing by taxing malt. Enjoy the presentation: “Doc, I need a drink”: Events and Revenues Leading to the Prohibition
This was then followed two short presentations by Scott Ney entitled Introduction to WWII Motor Vehicle Use Tax Stamps and George Hauber entitled Late Letters. We then moved to a lively Show & Tell with new finds requiring more research and updated on prior research projects.
Finally, to close out the Society’s two months of well-received, Revenue-focused lectures, Dr. Charles J. DiComo shared a recent find of a rare U.S. Private Die Proprietary Medicine stamp, the 4 cents Scovill RS221e on Experimental silk paper. He shared the history of the firm, the stamp in question, and how one distinguishes this uncommon paper variety from old, silk and watermarked. No doubt members and guests are checking their revenues now. Enjoy “The A.L. Scovill & Company” RS221e on Experimental Silk Paper: A brief History & Examination of Paper.
On April 14, 40+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. Dr. Charles J. DiComo shared a few updates on the Society website and YouTube Channel and urged all to visit and “Subscribe” and enjoy the diverse programs already posted. There are ~14 more video presentations to be posted over the next weeks. Paul then shared a membership update, discussed dues renewals and reminded all to hold the April dates (23-24) for the 2-day Kevin Kellman Stampshow at the Farm & Home Center, as well as the May 16 for our outside spring Stamp Flea Market at Millersville Park. Lou DiFelice gave the Treasurer’s Report, which was unanimously approved by a show of “virtual hands”.
The evenings program was entitled Revenues: Carte-de-Vistas, presented by Bill Schultz. The carte de visite (French:[kaʁt dəә vizit], visiting card), abbreviated CdV, was a type of small photograph which was patented in Paris by photographer André Adolphe Eugène Disdéri in 1854, although first used by Louis Dodero. Each photograph was the size of a visiting card, and such photograph cards were commonly traded among friends and visitors in the 1860s. Albums for the collection and display of cards became a common fixture in Victorian parlors. The immense popularity of these card photographs led to the publication and collection of photographs of prominent persons. Bill focused on a series of historical CdV’s related to West Chester, PA in the form of a philatelic revenue exhibit. Enjoy Revenues: Carte-de-Vistas.
This was then followed by a lively Show & Tell, with many members and guests sharing their own CdV’s and revenue-related items. We are excited to continue our Revenue series on April 28 when Ron Lesher will join us and speak on the taxation of legal alcohol during National Prohibition.
On March 24, ~40 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. He then shared a few updates on the Society website and YouTube Channel and urged all to visit and “Subscribe” and enjoy the diverse programs already posted. There are ~18 more video presentations to be posted over the next weeks. Paul then shared a membership update (we are at 133 members), discussed dues renewals (we are at 50% paid to date) and reminded all to hold the April dates (23-24) for the 2-day Kevin Kellman Stampshow at the Farm & Home Center, as well as the May 16 for our outside spring Stamp Flea Market at Millersville Park.
Tonight’s program was entitled An Introduction to Revenue Collecting as Illustrated by Members, led by Paul Petersen & Charles J. DiComo, PhD. Paul Petersen provided a brief overview of revenue stamps, the depth of types and varieties and uses, both foreign and domestic, illustrating many colorful examples.
Dr. DiComo followed with a lecture entitled “Who Needs a Doctor? This Elixir Will Do! A Primer on U.S. Revenue Private Die Proprietary Medicine Stamps and Nostrums”, the history of the firms that produced them, along with original packaging from the 1860-1880’s.
David Hunt followed with a presentation entitled A Few Revenue Stamps, showing many of his favorites. Thereafter we moved to a broad Show & Tell, where many members and guests shared their favorite revenues, ephemera and stories.
Tonight was the first of three presentations on revenue topics with two specialized presentations to follow in April. On April 14, Bill Schultz shall present “Revenues: Carte-de-Vistas” and on April 28 Ron Lesher shall present “Doc, I need a drink”: Events and Revenues Leading to the Prohibition.
On March 10, ~65 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests. He then shared the launch of the PSLC YouTube Channel and urged all to visit and “Subscribe” and enjoy the diverse programs already posted, with many more of the way! Lou then followed with the Treasurer’s Report, with all approving. Paul then shared a membership update, discussed dues renewals and reminded all to hold the May date for our outside spring Stamp Flea Market.
We then moved on to a diverse program lead by Al Schaub, George Hauber, Paul Petersen and our Show & Tell. A few pictures of the attendees and slides, and the videos are on our YouTube Channel. Stop by and Subscribe today!
On February 24, ~34 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees, new members and guests from the Empire State Postal History Society. Paul shared a membership update (we are over 130), discussed dues renewals and reminded all to hold the May date for our outside spring Stamp Flea Market. Dr. DiComo revisited the very successful socially distanced” Some Sunday Stamp Show of Kevin Kellman that took place on Sunday February 21 at the Farm & Home Center, Lancaster, PA. A reminder the Kevin and 10-12 dealers will be back for a two-day show on April 23 & 24 – so stay tuned!
Paul then introdcued Charles J. DiComo, PhD, President of PSLC & ESPHS who lectured on The Providence, R.I. Pre-Mailing Control Marking on the U.S. 3 Cent 1851-57 Stamp. The re-discovery nearly 20 years ago of a number of covers and stamps led to a re-examination of what had previously been termed a “silent precancel” on the U.S. 3¢ 1851-57 Issue. The stamps have either a single horizontal and/or vertical ruled line (or both) in black pencil and/or red pencil (or both) spanning the stamp from edge to edge. An examination of over 700 Providence covers (and many more stamps) from 1851 through 1860 and the discovery of 13 year-dated covers confirmed the period of use as ~June 1855 to October 1857. These control marked 3¢ stamps were post-cancelled with the Providence, RI CDS and accepted for postage at the Providence PO. Brown University appears to be a main “account” holder, with other prominent businesses and families partaking, e.g.: Corliss Steam Engine Co.; H.F. Walling Publishers; and Comstock. This original research and remarkable story of ingenuity at the Providence, RI Post Office can now be shared. Enjoy: The Providence, R.I. Pre-Mailing Control Marking on the U.S. 3 Cent 1851-57 Stamp.
Following a dynamic Q&A session, was out ever-popular Show & Tell where members and guests posted a number of stamps and covers looking for more information, or simply to share their recent find and current research. We urge all our members and friends to share an image of their favorite item or puzzler… See you next month.
On February 10, ~26 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees and new members. Paul shared a membership update (we are now at 130), discussed dues renewals and reminded all to hold the May date for our outside spring Stamp Flea Market. Lou then gave a Treasurer’s report and Dr. DiComo reminded all that on Sunday February 21st, Kevin Kellman will be holding a Some Sunday Stamp Show (masks required and all at a distance) at the Farm & Home Center, Lancaster, PA.
Paul then introduced Mike Bach, who spoke on “The 1890 Jubilee Celebrations of the Penny Black.” With the issuance of the world’s first postage stamp fifty years earlier by the U.K in 1840, many other countries followed suit. Along with the stamps often came some degree of needed postal reform. Reformer Rowland Hill agitated sufficiently until many of his ideas became law including uniform penny postage across the land. With this came improved literacy, greater communication, and a spawn of new businesses. In 1890, the 50th anniversary of this all was celebrated across the land. There were exhibits, gala events, speeches, and ephemera of all kinds. The 1890 Jubilee Celebrations of the Penny Black.
This was then followed by two short presentations by George Hauber and Scott Ney, with a Q&A session. There presentations are below and we are all looking forward to Dr. DiComo’s lecture on February 24 entitled The Providence, R.I. Pre-Mailing Control Marking on the U.S. 3 Cent 1851-57 Stamp.
In The Back Of My Desk Drawer, by George Hauber.
Coffee Rationing Stamps of WWII, by Scott Ney.
On January 27, ~34 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order and welcomed all attendees and new members. Paul shared a few updates on membership (we are now at 128 members), discussed dues renewals and mailing to Barbara and the plan for our outside spring event in May – stay tuned for more details in the PSLC Newsletter and on our website.
After a brief introduction by Paul, our guest speaker John Howker spoke on “The Map Stamps of Panama”. These detailed map stamps originated in Columbia and then changed issuance to Panama when the latter gained its independence. This was shortly followed by the demarcation of the Canal Zone across the isthmus in preparation for the construction of the Panama Canal. As a new country, Panama used existing map stamps of Columbia and overprinted then in 1904 with both ‘Panama’ and ‘Canal Zone’. Other renditions followed for the next two years. Various overprints were used during this period, and they varied by city. Enjoy the presentation “The Map Stamps of Panama”.
This was followed by our popular Show & Tell, where members and guests shared some of their favorite stamps & covers.See you in 2 weeks when Mike Bach will present on 1890: The Jubilee Celebrations of the Penny Post.
On January 13, ~37 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, wished all a Happy New Year and welcomed all attendees and new members. Paul shared a few updates on membership (we are now at 127 members), discussed dues renewals and mailing to Barbara, the planning for an outside spring event, and Lou shared that our Treasury is stable.
After a brief introduction by Paul, our guest speaker Dick Colberg spoke on French Balloon Mail, where he shared the history of the Ballon Mail during the Siege of Paris, the many flights leaving Paris carried by the winds to various destinations around France, to cities and countries beyond. Dick also shared numerous covers and discussed the specifics of each. This was followed by a lively Q&A.
Following this, Dr. DiComo shared a presentation on a recent find of a Private Die Proprietary U.S. Revenue Medicine stamp RS243e issued by the U.S. Proprietary Medicine Company on Experimental Silk Paper. He relayed a brief history of the company, the stamps issued, their use and a detailed examination of the paper. Charles highlighted the white and fibrous nature of the paper, along with the minute pieces of silk thread (blue and red) widely scattered within the paper, confirming its designation as experimental silk. “The U.S. Proprietary Medicine Company RS243e on Experimental Silk Paper: Brief History & Examination”.
We then moved on to our Show & Tell, where many members shared their favorites stamps and covers, with a few short presentations. See you in 2 weeks when John Howker will present on “The Map Stamps of Panama.”
On December 23, ~35 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, and welcomed all attendees and new members. Paul shared a few updates on membership, dues renewals, planning for an outside spring bourse, and Lou shared our Treasury is stable.
After a brief open session of members and introduction by Paul, Dr. DiComo, PSLC & ESPHS President, shared a presentation entitled Banking in the Village of Pawling, NY and Surrounding Townships as told through Postal History, Bank Checks, Currency, Revenue Stamps and Postal Cards: 1849–1929. Dr. DiComo lived in Pawling, New York for a decade, and began researching the history of village, town, hamlets and neighborhoods in Dutchess County. He began collecting its postal history, along with real photo postcards, postal cards, postal stationery, Victorian trade cards, railroad tickets, newspapers, hotel paraphernalia, etc. He shared a sub-collection from this study which included Bank Checks, Promissory Notes, Bank Tags, Fractional & Federal Currency, Revenue-stamped documents and other Ephemera. Banking in the Village of Pawling, NY and Surrounding Townships as told through Postal History, Bank Checks, Currency, Revenue Stamps and Postal Cards: 1849–1929.
For those interested, he recently published an article on a portion of this story, The Life of Hiram Vail and the Obsolete Notes produced for his Banking & Collection Office in Amenia, New York, Paper Money, May-June 2019, Vol. LVIII, No. 3, Whole No. 321, pp. 190-194.
Following a spirited Q&A session, we moved to our Show & Tell where George Hauber shared a presentation on the U.S. Americana Definitive Series, 1975-1981. This was a short-lived definitives series, but offers diverse paper, gum and tagging varieties. The Americana Series 1975-81.
We ended the evening and 2020 with everyone raising their glasses and Dr. DiComo wishing all a safe, relaxing and wonderful time over the next few weeks; we are all deserving of some time to reflect, recharge and head into 2021 with renewed hope.
On December 9, ~35 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen, in President DiComo’s stead, called the meeting to order, and welcomed all attendees and new members. Steven J. Rod then spoke on “Nassau Street: The Stamp Collectors Paradise.” Nassau Street in Manhattan was the place to be, as it exemplified the great history of the hobby in its golden years. Everyone was treated to stories about the dealers and other characters, the auctions, the sales, and some of the other great details behind this unprecedented NYC real estate. This was followed by a Q&A session and all were treated to a lively Show & Tell. See you on December 23rd.
On November 25, ~33 members and guests gathered online from across the country (and a dealer from Australia) at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen, in President DiComo’s stead, called the meeting to order, and welcomed all attendees and new members.
Mike Bach then led a lecture entitled “Wilkins-Ellsworth 1931: Ill-fated Expedition to the North Pole by Submarine Nautilus.” This presentation revolved around a postcard with two addresses and stamps from two countries with a cachet of a submarine at the North Pole. Mike told the story of the ill-fated journey by submarine that was conceived by two adventurers, Hubert Wilkins, an Australian, and Lincoln Ellsworth, an American who we all should know but we don’t. After Mike’s presentation, everyone in attendance knew a little more about these characters. The post-presentation was dynamic with many having similar covers and information to share. Wilkins-Ellsworth 1931: Ill-fated Expedition to the North Pole by Submarine Nautilus.
Scott Ney then spoke on his most current project, involving the creation of philatelic calendars using your “extra” stamps, a fascinating area that anyone can start. His presentation is entitled Philatelic Calendar – Or Puzzle?. The evening ended with our ever popular Show & Tell. See you next month…
On November 11, 33 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, and welcomed all attendees and new members. Lou shared a Treasurer’s report; Paul a membership report – with the great news that we have signed on our 125th member (welcome Steve!). Paul then called for a motion to vote in the current slate of officers for another term in 2021. The vote was unanimous and Dr. DiComo thanked the membership on behalf of the officers for their vote of confidence.
Paul then introduced the evenings presenter, David Hunt, President of the Reading Stamp Collectors Club. David spoke on “Pilgrim-400: The 400th Anniversary of the Landing at Plymouth Rock.” Dave showed the U.S. stamps for the 300th, 350th and 400th anniversaries, the 3 stamps Great Britain issued for the Mayflower/Pilgrims, and some postal history (very) loosely connected to the Pilgrims. He’s a member of The Society of Mayflower Descendants in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, has been an officer of said organization, as a descendant of Gov. William Bradford (and probably a few others such as John and Priscilla Alden). 400th Anniversary of the Pilgrim Landing. This was followed by a very active Show & Tell, with submissions by Steve Rod, Paul Petersen, Bob Noble and Dr. DiComo. We look forward to see you all in 2 weeks!
On October 28, 27+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. In President DiComo’s absence, Paul Petersen called the meeting to order, welcomed all attendees and gave a brief update. This was followed by our keynote speaker, Bob Kotanchik, who gave a colorful presentation on An Introduction to the Machin Issues of Great Britain. This is one of the longest running worldwide definitive stamp issues, one that began in 1964. How did these get started? Who designed them? How are colours picked? How can one be told from another? If security precautions are used, what are they? What makes these stamps such an interesting issue to collect? It’s all here. Introduction to the Machins Issues of Great Britain. This was then followed by our most popular Show & Tell. We look forward to seeing you next month.
On October 14, 27+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed all attendees and gave a brief overview of the Society website, Membership status, and a summary of the successful “Some Sunday Stamp Show” on October 11 at the Farm & Home Center. Paul Petersen then put forth the current slate of Officers for reelection in 2021. This was motioned and seconded and will appear in net months newsletter, to be voted on at the December meeting.
Paul then introduced the evenings presenter, David Hunt, President of the Reading Stamp Collectors Club and Treasurer/Auction Director of the Errors, Freaks, and Oddities Collectors Club. David spoke on Great Britain Stamped to Order Stationary and the Royal Household Official Mail. He showed covers with special markings and cancels and various aspects of postal activity in the UK.
Great Britain Stamped to Order Postal Stationery & Royal Household Official Mail
This was then followed by Show & Tell, with short presentations by George Hauber, Al Schaub, Mike Bach, Bob Noble and others. Jose Rizal: Philippines Hero, by George Hauber.
On September 23, 32 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed all attendees and gave a brief overview of the Society website with many new features – do visit our website today! Paul Petersen then introduced Ann Byerly, ATA Chapter Coordinator who presented on “Nurse Philatelic Stories.” We are seeing the many sacrifices being made as we endure the current Corona virus pandemic, and among those on the front line are the nurses. Ann shared stories behind the nurses on stamps as a thematic collector and former RN. It is her thank you to all the healthcare workers for their service. Ann is the ATA Chapter Coordinator, writing the Chapter Chatter column in each issue of Topical Time. PSLC is reviewed each month based on the information in our newsletters. Nurse Philately Stories.
Charles J. DiComo, PhD followed with a short presentation on The 1893 2¢ Columbian “Broken Hat” Plate Varieties. I am sure we all have one or more copies, but did you know that this transfer roll break or damaged relief developed gradually over time, leading to variations in the break? Do check your copies after viewing Charles’ presentation! The 1893 2 Cent Columbian “Broken Hat” Varieties.
This was followed by our popular Show & Tell. Bob Kotanchik shared a few slides and “stamps” or “labels” from the 1971 British Postal Strike. Great Britain’s Postal Strike of 1971.
David Hunt shared a few select U.S. Revenues; a First Issue 5 Cent red Certificate stamp with a SON cancel in black from Mohawk Valley Bank dated April 14, 1865 (I am sure you can guess the historical significance of that date). The second was an R154 1 Cent green Franklin small banknote stamp from 1898 overprinted with the red “I.R.”, postally used on a drop cover from Parkersburg W.V. (an illegal use). Presentations and pictures of the meeting to follow. See you next month!
On September 9, 40 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed all attendees and gave a brief overview of the state of the Society – which is stable and healthy. Paul Petersen then introduced Dawn Hamman, the President of the American Topical Association (ATA), who presented a delightful and informative lecture of Collecting your State. Even for those who are not yet topical collectors, this presentation demonstrated how anyone can collect stamps and ephemera related to your state or other states of family or friends. There are unlimited educational benefits to this for younger collectors or collectors to be. Dawn demonstrated how she developed such a collection of stamps from her state of Florida. She also notes that ATA has topical checklists for most states that will enable collectors to get a jump-start on their new topical collection. Do visit their new and improved website. This was then followed by our Show & Tell. The meeting concluded a little after 9:00 PM. All are looking forward to ATA Chapter Coordinator, Ann Byerly’s presentation in two weeks on Nurse Philatelic Stories.
On August 26, 40 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. President DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed the attendees, gave a brief overview of the state of the Society and passed the floor to APS Executive Director Scott English – who discussed the recent success of the Virtual APS Stamp Show 2020 and thanked all for their ongoing support. Paul Petersen then introduced our guest lecturer, Robert G. Rufe, President of the Brandywine Valley Stamp Club. He spoke on the 1928 Era “Special” Booklet Paper Variety Stamps now listed in the 2020 Scott Catalog. These exciting new listings have been a decade long effort by Bob and we congratulate him. 1928 Fourth Bureaus on Special Booklet Paper.
Charles J. DiComo, PhD then followed with a brief presentation entitled What are Those Extra Lines on your Gravure-printed Stamp?, where he discussed the doctor blade, the high precision steel blade found on gravure printing systems that scrapes (or meters) away the excess ink from gravure cylinder, leaving the raised areas free of ink. The ink is then transferred from the depressed areas under pressure to the stamp paper. When the doctor blade is defective, errant lines of ink may appear. Examples are shown, along with plate cracks and scratches. What Are Those Extra Lines On Your Gravure-printed Stamps?.
We ended the evening with our popular Show & Tell and reminded everyone to check our website for future speakers, new presentations, reprints and exhibits.
On August 12 we held our self-catered, socially-distant Annual Summer Picnic at Memorial Park in Millersville. Seventeen members and guests brought their own food, drink, table covering, hand sanitizer and masks – a truly self-catered picnic. The pavilion was large enough for everyone to spread out, keep their distance and still have engaging conversation. There were also plenty of stamps and covers at our silent auction and door prizes. The rain held out again (thanks Doug!)
On July 22, members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Paul Petersen called the meeting to order, welcomed the attendees and discussed the annual picnic on August 12th. The keynote speakers was George Hauber, Sr., who presented on the History and Overview of World War II V-Mail. This was followed by Paul Petersen who gave a primer on U.S. Postage Currency. We ended the evening with our popular Show & Tell.
History and Overview of World War II V-Mail, by George Hauber, Sr.
A Primer on U.S. Postage Currency, by Paul Petersen
On July 8, 30+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Prez. DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed the attendees, and called for approval of last months minutes. This was followed by the Treasurer and Membership Report, after which Paul discussed the annual picnic being planned for August 12th following a “social distancing” approach. Paul also mentioned our future speakers and made a call for anyone else who would like to share.
Prez. DiComo also gave an update on the Philatelic Society of Lancaster County’s continued partnership with the North Museum of Nature & Science and the “Passport to Discovery” Program he helped to create nearly 2 years ago. This popular Passport program, which is part of the Visitor Discovery Packs for all attendees, invites guests of the museum to explore exhibits in a whole new way and introduces the wonder of Stamp Collecting with the generous donation of starter packets from members of the Philatelic Society of Lancaster County for all attendees. As visitors make their way through the museums’ three floors, they are invited to add stamps to their passport and select locations along the way. TNM-PSLC Passport to Discovery Program Update
Our keynote speaker was Mike Bach, who shared his story entitled The Penny Black, A Pictorial Tour of the Anniversaries: 1840 to 2020. He took us on a tour of the last 180 years of the stamps and souvenir sheets issued from around the globe to commemorate the issue of the worlds first postage stamp, the Penny Black. There were some issues the group had not seen before, with many variations on the theme. A Pictorial Tour of the Anniversaries of the Penny Black: 1840 to 2020, by Mike Bach
This was then followed by a short presentation by Dr. Charles J. DiComo on The S.S. Tahiti: Her History, Her Sinking and a ‘Salvaged’ Cover, based on a recent find of a cover that sat unnoticed in a brown envelope for 35 years. Charles was able to locate photos the Ocean Liners foundering and rescue – with no loss of life – in the South Pacific Ocean. This artifact is one a few pieces of mail that survived and was eventually delivered from New Zealand to its final destination in Indianapolis. The S.S. Tahiti: Her History, Her Sinking and a “Salvaged” Cover, by Charles J. DiComo, PhD
We ended the evening with our Show & Tell. Members and guests shared a myriad of items, including Silent Precancels, Advertising Covers and Wrappers, a complete plating the Great Britain One Penny Reds (WOW), and World War II Ration Stamps of all types.
2020-06-24 Virtual Bi-monthly Meeting
On June 24, 35 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Prez. DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed all members and guests, and passed the mike to Paul Petersen., He discussed the ongoing interest in our annual picnic – following a “social distancing” approach. Paul also mentioned our future speakers and made a call for anyone else who would like to share.
Rudi Anders, President of the Germany Philatelic Society, then spoke for 60 minutes on WWII German Censorship: An emphasis on Berlin with an overview of the entire system. Rudi is a specialist in WWII postal history and issues, with a sub-specialty of Immediate Post-WWII postal history. In this primer, he showed early examples from the Boer War and WWI, described currency control in the early 1930’s in Germany, then reviewed the mechanics of censorship and rules. Finally, Rudi presented a broad array of covers from the WWII period, some common, some scarce – all unique in their own right. The evening concluded with a Show & Tell, led of by Bob Kotanchik, who put a smile on everyone’s face with his presentation entitled Satirical Stamp Designs Created to Commemorate Brexit: i.e., Britain’s Departure from the European Union. The presentation, along with Rudi’s is shared below. Additional members & guests kept the evening going by sharing their favorite stamps and covers and took questions. As always, we all learned something new.
WWII German Censorship: An emphasis on Berlin with an overview of the entire system
German Censorship of Civilian Mail during World War II: List of Cities
Satirical Stamp Designs Created to Commemorate Brexit
2020-06-10 Virtual Bi-monthly Meeting
On June 10, 35 members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our monthly meeting. Prez. DiComo called the meeting to order, welcomed all and passed the mike to Lou and Barbara for the Treasurer and Membership reports, respectively. Paul then polled the membership for their interest of holding the annual picnic at Memorial Park in August. More details to follow.
PSLC President Charles J. DiComo, PhD then spoke for 60 minutes on The Development of Perforations on United States Postage Stamps: 1855 – 1857. He reviewed the events preceding the purchase of a perforating machine by Toppan, Carpenter & Co. (TCC) and the inventors of the rotary perforating machine in G.B. He then discussed the TCC rouletting trial period with Perkins, Bacon and Bemrose and conversion of the roulettor to a perforator; all leading to the eventual issuance of the first U.S. perforated 3¢ stamps in February 1857. He displayed many never before seen original documents and correspondence between TCC and Perkins, Bacon and Charles’ recent discovery of a 3¢ 1851 “brush stroke” pair, Scott #11P3. The presentation is below as a PDF. Finally, the evening was capped off with a Show & Tell, where members & guests shared their favorite stamps and covers. The Development of Perforations on United States Postage Stamps: 1855 – 1857
2020-05-27 Virtual Bi-monthly Meeting
On May 27, 30+ members and guests gathered online from across the country at 6:30 PM for our second meeting of the month and ran for nearly 3 hours. The evenings session was led off by Joanne Murphy, MD, Executive Director of the International Society of Worldwide Stamp Collectors. She shared the ins and out of the International Society of Worldwide Stamp Collectors, the benefits of membership, their newsletter and online resources, including the amazingly useful Worldwide Stamp Identifier. Why not consider joining today by visiting the ISWSC.
PSLC President Charles J. DiComo, Ph.D, followed with a presentation entitled A Primer on the U.S. 3 Cent Stamp, 1851-60 Issue: Plates, Colors, Cancels. Charles gave an overview of the events leading up to reduced postage rates in 1851, the awarding of the contract to Toppan, Carpenter & Co., the production of the 3 Cent stamp; reviewing essays, the die, plate proofs, the 3 reliefs, plate production and layout. He then showed examples of the more common colors/shades from 1851 to 1857 neatly mounted on Dr. Amonette-signed cards, followed by select examples of Fancy Town cancels, Route Agent & Waterway/Vessel Cancels, Railroad cancel and an assortment of colored cancels, both common and scarce in blue, red and green. The presentation is below as a PDF.
Finally, the evening was capped off with a Show & Tell – an amazing assortment of material was shared and discussed. We look forward to seeing you on June 10th for our next virtual meeting, where Charles J. DiComo, PhD with give a 60 minute presentation on The Development of Perforations on United States Postage Stamps: 1855 – 1857. A Primer on the U.S. 3 Cent Stamp, 1851-60 Issue: Plates, Colors, Cancels
2020-05-13 Virtual Bi-Monthly Meeting
On May 13, 44 members and guests gathered online for our monthly meeting, which began promptly at 6:30 PM and ran for 90+ minutes via Zoom. Dr. DiComo opened the session with a welcome, introduced our guest Tom Bowman from the Wyoming Valley Stamp Club, along with our newest PSLC member Stan Shepp. Paul followed with the Treasurers report on Lou’s behalf, then a membership update. We are also happy to report that David Weichert was unanimously voted in as Secretary.
Paul then facilitated the program with our four speakers. Jennifer Miller from the American Topical Association, discussed what initially got her into collecting and the state of the ATA and topical collecting. If you are not a member, do consider joining. Next up was Scott English, APS Executive Director, who discussed the state of the Society and the hobby in general. We also encourage you to join the APS – you will not be disappointed. His presentation is below. Next, Bill Schultz presented on the 6¼ cent rate “of convenience,” based on a special cover he uncovered a year or so ago. This has led to a manuscript with contributions from collectors across the globe, with a publication in the works. His presentation is below. Finally, we ended the evening with George Hauber’s recent find of an old brown wrapper. The moral, you never know what you will find inside – so keep on searching! We look forward to seeing you on May 27th for our next virtual meeting – Prez. DiComo will be leading the discussion with a primer on the U.S. 3 Cent Stamp, 1851-60 Issue: Plates, Colors and Cancels. If you are interested in classic U.S. stamps, you will want to join us.
APS/APRL Update, Managing Through a Crisis, by Scott English.
“The 6¼ cent rate of convenience – How scarce?”, By Bill Schutlz.
“An Old Brown Wrapper, What’s Inside?”, by George Hauber.
2020-04 The Society’s Inaugural Virtual Monthly Meeting a Success
On April 8, 2020, 24 members and guests attended the Society’s inaugural Virtual Monthly Meeting using Zoom video conferencing. Our thanks goes to Sue Noble Uhl who facilitated this and Paul Petersen who moderated the hour long session. It was rewarding to see all the smiling faces, each in good health and social distancing. And there were “door” prizes too! Dr. DiComo opened the session with a welcome and a hearty thanks to all those that could attend. Membership Chair Barbara Buchanan gave a membership update with a reminder that a few members have yet to pay their dues. Then the sharing began, with each on the line sharing a story or two of what they have been doing during these past weeks. Many have been catching up with their stamps, postal history, research articles and home projects. Some were happy to listen to the birds during their long walks. Bob Noble and Dr. Charles DiComo shared their screens and presented a number of interesting stamps and postal history items with brief descriptions. Prez. DiComo captured some screen shots shown below. We encourage more members to join us for the May Virtual Monthly Meeting.
2020-02 Dr. Charles J. DiComo shares an 1856 Postal History Detective Story
On February 12, 2020 47 members and guests were treated to a lecture by Dr. Charles J. DiComo entitled “From the U.S. to Farther India & Back Again. A Five Month Journey of a Baptist Missionary Cover in 1856-1857. The Challenge: Determining the Rates and Routes”. This was a detective story of an 1856 cover with 20+ cancellations and manuscript markings. The challenge was to determine the journey this cover took from Warren, Ohio to Farther India (Burma) and back again, arriving at the Baptist Mission in Boston after 5 months. Charles eloquently revealed the cancels, followed the routes and rates and deciphered the transit, as well as sharing the human story of the Reverend Alfred Satterlee, his wife and newborn daughter. All this was accomplished using numerous resources: personal philatelic references; online databases, philatelic auction catalogs; digital manipulation software; and by contacting colleagues. There was also the usual business meeting, with Treasurer and Membership Chair reports, Lancopex 2020 sign-up sheets, nearly 30+ door prizes, the 50-50 and our monthly bourse.
Paul Petersen also shared with members and guests that our very own Dr. DiComo was the recipient of the Grand Award and Large Gold Award in Literature at the 66th Sarasota National Stamp Expo and Writers Unit 30, which took place February 7-9, 2020. This recognition was for his article entitled New Plate Flaw Discovery: “Dash and Ink Trail” on 3¢ 1851 Stamp. This original research appeared in The Chronicle of U.S. Postal Issues 259, August 2018 published by the U.S. Philatelic Classics Society. For more info on this award and the Sarasota Palmares, click HERE
2020-01 Winter Auction
On January 8, we held our Winter Auction and it was a grand success with 50 members in attendance, over 125 lots and 70% sold. Everyone was excited to be in our new auction space the High Conference Room at Landis Homes. President DiComo wished all a Happy New Year, opened the session and was presented an APS Article of Distinction Award for 2020 from Paul. Paul then followed with general announcements, the LANCOPEX sign-up clipboards and a special recognition to Fred Sargent. Lou shared the Treasurer’s report and Barbara shared the membership report (currently at 118) and that dues are being accepted. Hal Klein provided snacks and refreshments. From the floor Mike Bach updated us on our friends health in Reading and Reading Stamp Club President David Hunt thanked the PSLC for a club donation. Then the aggressive bidding began – A special thanks to our crack staff of auctioneers (Aaron & Mike); runners (Mark, Robert & Charles); and accounting (Lou & Dick). Our members submitted quality material under our new “rules” and our ambitious members and guests bid energetically and won great lots, with nearly $850 in sales. Treasurer Lou DiFelice shall have the detailed results for our February newsletter. We are anxiously looking forward to the June Auction.
2019-12 Society Holiday Dinner
On December 18, a great time was a had by all at the Garden Cafe at Woodcrest Villa. There were 49 members and guests in attendance. At each place setting was the evening’s Holiday Dinner Program. There was an excellent cocktail hour, followed by a welcome and blessing by Paul Petersen. The menu and choice of entrees was as outstanding as was the service, and folks are already talking about next year. This years festivities included an optional gift exchange of a philatelic nature – everyone that participated had smiles on their faces. Paul Petersen then recognized the 2020 Society Officers, all of whom posed for a photo-op. Finally, it was time for the special recognition portion of the evening, where we all thanked our colleagues for their any years of service and volunteerism. The success of our Society is due to its’ dedicated members and we do have many. We closed with well wishes and good health for the New Year.
2019-10 David Hunt discusses the Engraving Art of Czeslaw Slania
On October 9, 2019, 45+ members and guests were treated to a presentation by David Hunt entitled “The Engraving Art of Czeslaw Slania – Life Work of the World’s Finest Engraver”. David discussed the early life of Slania in Poland and his longtime partnership with the Swedish Post who produced many of his stamps after he moved there in 1956. Slania was prolific in that he designed and/or engraved 1547 stamps for 32 countries – a record that will probably never be surpassed. He also engraved banknotes and various art pieces. You can view David’s presentation HERE.
2019-09 Autumn Auction
On September 11, the Society held its Autumn Auction. Before we began, President DiComo led a short business meeting, followed by a moving 9/11 remembrance speech by Vin Kneizys and a moment of silence. There were over 50 members and guests in attendance, with 43 registered bidders, 28 actual buyers and 155 lots for sale. Overall the evening was a grand success and all had smiles on their faces with their new acquisitions. A special thanks to our crack staff of auctioneers (Aaron and Mike); runners (Robert and Charles); bookkeepers (Dick and Lou); and host Joe Berlin for the tasty treats and drinks.
The Society would also like to thank Bill Harris, President of the Allentown Philatelic Society, his wife Susan, and Bob Kotanchik, their webmaster (and now PSLC member) for stopping by the club, and for a dinner meeting prior with Dr. DiComo to discuss partnership opportunities between the two Society’s.
2019-07 Roger Brody discusses The U.S. Stamp Series of 1902
On July 10, 2019, 50+ members and guests were treated to a special presentation by Roger Brody entitled “National Identity: The Stamp Series of 1902”. The presentation discussed the development of the first definitive stamp series designed and produced by the Bureau of Engraving & Printing (BEP). Roger is the foremost expert in the U.S. 1902 Series as seen in his exhibition awards, publications, research, presentations, and consultation. It was a learning experience for all with a great Q&A session. We were honored to have him to the club and are already looking forward his return next summer. You can view Roger’s presentation HERE.
2019-06 Paul Petersen and Dr. Charles J. DiComo presenting at APS Summer Session
On June 24, 2019, 20 participants attended an APS Summer Session elective lecture entitled “Using Your Stamp Club Newsletter & Website for Productive Communication and Growth” by Paul Petersen, Editor – PSLC Newsletter and Dr. Charles J. DiComo, Society President, Webmaster & Designer. The purpose of the presentation and accompanying handout was not to describe how to compose an effective newsletter or build and develop a successful website, but to detail how these modes are an asset to both internal and external communication to promote growth of the club and the hobby itself. There were excellent questions throughout and a number of attendees (including our very own Lou DiFelice) stayed an additional 45 minutes for a live demonstration of the administrative portion of the PSLC website and ease of set-up, editing and maintenance. To access both the presentation and handout, click HERE.
2019 Spring Auction
On June 12, 2019 the Society held its Spring Auction and it was a grand success. A special thanks to our crack staff of auctioneers (Aaron & Mike); runners (Robert & Charles); and host George Younes. Our members submitted quality material and our 50 members and guests bid energetically and won some great lots. We all are looking forward to our Autumn Auction in September.
2019-05 Rick Barrett speaking on his book “Buffalo Cinderellas“
On May 23, 2019, 25 members and guests we treated to a special presentation by Rick Barrett on his award-winning book Buffalo Cinderellas – The Gentleman, The Huckster and the Pan American Exposition. Rick had books available for sale and autographed all for the purchasers. He also brought his extensive collection of Pan American Exposition materials, from tickets, postal history, post cards, stamps, newspapers, ephemera, etc. Rick’s wife Christine joined us and took video, photographs, and was kind enough to hand out to all attendees the USPS Pan American souvenir sheet issued in 2000.
2019-05 Joseph Sullivan speaking on the “The History of Printing on Stamps: A Topical Study”
On May 8, 2019, 50 members and guests were thoroughly entertained by our guest speaker Joseph Sullivan on a topical study on “The History of Printing on Stamps”. Joe is a lifelong, worldwide stamp collector with special interest in the graphic arts and printing as related to philately. He is also a serious collector of Poster Stamps. Joe is a member of the APS, ATA, Baltimore Philatelic Society, Graphics Philately Association, and Europa Study Unit. He is the editor of and contributor to Philateli-Graphics, the award-winning quarterly journal of the Graphics Philately Association. Within the last year, he created the stampsite.org website where he writes regularly about philatelic topics that particularly interest him (and hopefully you too, so check it out.) Joe is also an ATA Ambassador and annual participant in Volunteer Week at the APS. Enjoy!
2019-04 Bill Schultz speaking on the “Joys of Philately”
On April 10, 2019, nearly 60 members and guests were treated to an informal discussion on the Joys of Philately by Bill Schultz; philatelic judge, writer, speaker, collector, curator, and more than 50 year exhibitor. We opened the session with a music video of a rendition of Unchained Melody by the Alle Orchester bei der Musikschau der Nationen recorded in 2002 in Bremen. Bill then followed with an overview of postal history, postal systems, the movement of mail via different modes of transportation (water, rail, horseback), discussed cancels and devices, and the postal rates and stamps that covered the cost of this enterprise. Bill then passed around the room his wonderful exhibit pages of covers and letters from West Chester, PA. Moreover, Bill introduced a Single-Frame Exhibit on “Ft. Delaware POW’s Postal History”. This newly-created exhibit which Bill helped to curate for a collector, contained many unique items sent from the Fort by Confederate (and Union traitor) prisoners of war during the Civil War. The material was rare and unique and has never been exhibited before. A most enjoyable evening was had by all – We are looking forward to Bill’s next visit!
2019-04 The North Museum & Philatelic Society Launch the “Passport to Discovery”
On April 1, 2019, The North Museum of Nature and Science in conjunction with the Philatelic Society of Lancaster County has developed a new program for its young guests. The “Passport to Discovery” program features an all-color booklet that includes spaces for the children to match up cancelled commemorative postage stamps with displays in the Museum.
Children will be given the opportunity to search through boxes of cancelled postage stamps to find a match to the clues given in their “Passport to Discovery” booklets. They may then paste the stamps they find into their “Passport to Discovery” booklet in the space allotted. For instance, there is a space inside the booklet for “dinosaurs.” They may find several stamps dedicated to “dinosaurs” which they may paste in the space in their booklet. There will be prizes awarded for those who finish their booklets. This unique, fun activity is intended to introduce children to the hobby of stamp collecting and give them another new way to explore North Museum. Cost of the “Passport to Discovery” booklets is $5.00 each plus admission to the Museum and the program will last through August 2019.
The North Museum is located on the corner of Buchanan and College Avenues in Lancaster and is open year-round (10:00 am-5:00 pm Mondays-Saturdays; Sundays 12:00 pm-5:00 pm) and features world-class collections of rocks, minerals, and birds as well as an active glass-enclosed beehive, a dinosaur gallery, coding corner, state-of-the-art planetarium and a live animal room.
The Philatelic Society of Lancaster County is an award-winning, non-profit community organization dedicated to promoting stamp collecting as a hobby for education and fun, from the teenager to adult, from the beginner to postal historian, serving members from Lancaster, Lebanon, Reading, York, Harrisburg, Hershey and beyond.
2019-02 Robert Witkosky discussing Bosnian Philately
On February 13, we were treated to a presentation by Robert “Bob” Witkosky. Over 60 members and guests were in attendance. Bob is retired from the U.S. Air Force and the DoD as an analyst. He is now a part-time philatelic dealer specializing in worldwide covers. Bob’s personal collecting interest is Bosnian philately, stamps and postal history. As background, at the start of WWI, Bosnian postal authorities employed their first use of semi-postal stamps by overprinting the 5 Heller & 10 Heller values of the 1906 Views issue stamps (Scott #B1 & B2). The overprints consisted of the year (1914), an additional value (7 Heller or 12 Heller), and four small squares. Bob passed around page after page of stamps, with multiples, perforation varieties, overprints, semi-postal’s, and covers. There were plenty of questions – and a few members brought their own Bosnian stamps for sharing. We hope to see Bob in the near future for Part II.
2019 Some Sunday Stamp Show
On February 10 at the Farm & Home Center was the winter meet-up of the Some Sunday Stamp Show, hosted by our very own Kevin Kellman. PSLC Members and Guests from as far as Maryland were in attendance to search through 8 dealers stock. A silent auction with well over 75 lots was a success, as was the ever popular free pizza and soft drinks. I hope all in attendance walked away with a new find for their research and collections. See you at the next Show.
2019 Winter Auction
On January 9, the Society held our Winter Auction and it was a grand success. We were excited to be in our new meeting space at Landis Homes in the Crossings Meeting Room. A special thanks to our crack staff of auctioneers (Aaron and Mike); runners (Mark, Robert and Charles); and host Tony Coccio. Our members submitted quality material and our ambitious members and guests bid energetically and won some great lots. There were a total of 145 lots presented for sale. Of those lots, 114 were sold and the total sales amounted to over $1,000. We look anxiously looking forward to our Spring Auction.
2018-12 Society Holiday Dinner
A great time was a had by all on December 19 at the Garden Cafe at Woodcrest Villa. There was an excellent cocktail hour and sit down meal. The menu and choice of three entrees was as outstanding as the service, and folks are already talking about next year. At each place setting was the evening’s program and menu. Favors from the Dinner Committee included the ATA Checklist for Cranberries on Stamps and a USPS souvenir sheet of this year’s Santa Claus stamp, the one with the labeled coke bottle in the selvage.
This years entertainment was something new, the reading of the contents from among covers that we have accumulated, some containing letters. These turned out to be poignant, interesting, and in a few cases, very funny. In addition, we had two last minute donations to add to the festivities: the North Museum of Nature & Science Gift Basket and a Pinot Gris with a special postage stamp label – which was auctioned for the PSLC treasury. Finally, we announced the 2019 Society Officers. We look forward to see each of you next year!
2018 Society Picnic at Memorial Park
On August 8th the Philatelic Society of Lancaster County held its Annual Picnic at Memorial Park in Millersville, PA. There were over 40 members and guests, the weather was sunny and warm, with great food, drink and conversation. And nothing like a Scott #39 – 90 Cent sheet cake… Thank you to all that attended and volunteered with set-up, cooking and breakdown!
2018-05 Dr. Paul Petersen discussing the ATA, Topicals and Thematic Collecting
On May 9th, we were treated to a presentation prepared by Vera Felts, Executive Director of the American Topical Association, of which your Society is ATA Chapter #118. Vera unfortunately could not attend and sent her regards. In her stead, our very own Dr. Paul Petersen skillfully and entertainingly delivered the lecture on the State Symbols of Pennsylvania on Stamps. I know we have many club members who already specialize in a variety of subjects – it is very rewarding as well as challenging. The extent of collecting areas is limitless. Now is the time – just pick your favorite subject or theme and forge ahead! And while you are at it, consider joining the ATA.
2018 Chester County Historical Society (CCHS) Lecture Series
What follows are select images from the Chester County Historical Society’s Lecture Series and Philatelic Exhibition that ran from December 2017 through April 2018. On April 14, 2018, 35+ attendees were enlightened by pre-eminent Postal Historian and award-winning Champion of Champions Philatelic Exhibitor Dr. John Barwis on The Rise and Fall of Philadelphia Area’s Pre-Eminence as a Postal Communication Center. An amazing journey through history and what a way to close out the You’ve Got Mail Series. Enjoy!
2018 Chester County Historical Society (CCHS) Exhibition Highlights
From December 2017 through April 2018, the Chester County Historical Society (CCHS) held a seminal Philatelic Lecture Series called “You’ve Got Mail” in West Chester, PA. This was made possible by our friend Bill Schultz, longtime Exhibitor, Accredited APS Judge and Board member of the American Association of Philatelic Exhibitors.
In addition, Bill co-curated a first of its kind CCHS Philatelic Exhibition with items donated from the philatelic community. Also on display for the first time in nearly 80 years was the exhibit of Robert Brinton (1888-1946) of the Westtown School Local Post, containing 101 such examples. In 1941, this won the Grand Award at the 9th Annual Exhibition “Y” Stamp Club, Wilmington, DE and was re-discovered by Bill Schultz at the CCHS.
Here we show a few of the key items from this amazing Exhibition. Thank you again for generous donations and efforts of all involved, especially Bill Schultz.
2018 Renown Postal Historian and Exhibitor Bill Schultz Visits the PSLC
On April 10th, 2018 the PSLC was informed and entertained by renowned postal historian Bill Schultz. He addressed the pros and cons of grading philatelic exhibits using a newly revised numeric system. Bill discussed the background for developing such a rating system and assess how it has fared after 15 months in place. Is it good news or bad news?
Bill has been an exhibitor since the early 1960’s and has served as an accredited APS judge for many years. Most recently he was elected to the Board of Directors of the American Association of Philatelic Exhibitors, just recognition for his service in this area. Many in PSLC are familiar with Bill for his role in curating the outstanding postal history exhibit at the Chester County Historical Society (CCHS) with its corresponding program of world class speakers and researchers entitled “You’ve Got Mail.” This was a series of eight presentations examining the many fascinating aspects of postal history, which began in December 2017 and ran through April 2018.
While most collectors do not exhibit competitively, this activity is an important element of the hobby, helping collectors learn and view new material. While some think that exhibiting is all about deep pockets, it does not always have to be. As important is the research into the printing and other production issues, policy making, postal history and geography, routes & rates, and so much more. Along with dealers and collectors, exhibitors form the three-legged stool of philately, which is so necessary for advancement.
2018 Chester County Historical Society (CCHS) Lecture Series
What follows are a few select images from the Chester County Historical Society’s Lecture Series and Philatelic Exhibition that ran from December 2017 through April 2018. On March 24, 2018, 40+ attendees of all ages were entertained by preeminent U.S. Postal Historian and Award-winning Exhibitor Robert G. Rose, Esq., who regaled us with an overview of United States Mails from its earliest days without stamps, otherwise known as the Stampless Era. An amazing journey through history. Enjoy!
2018 APS Executive Director Scott English pays a Visit to the PSLC
On March 14th, 2018, the PSLC welcomed Scott English, Executive Director of the American Philatelic Society (APS) to our monthly membership meeting as part of his #StampTour2018. We thank him for visiting (and his lovely wife Kendra) and for a great meal, dynamic conversation, an informative presentation, Q&A session and the APS neck tie which will be worn with pride. We are proud to be the James Buchanan Chapter of the APS, actively participating in the new direction Scott and his team are taking the hobby. We even signed up a few of our members to the APS. Scott is also a PSLC member and is always welcome back.
2018 Chester County Historical Society (CCHS) Lecture Series
What follows are a few select images from the Chester County Historical Society’s Lecture Series and Philatelic Exhibition that ran from December 2017 through April 2018. On January 20, 2018, 50+ attendees of all ages were entertained by the preeminent U.S. Colonial Postal Historian Dr. Timothy O’Connor (as Dr. Benjamin Franklin) who regaled us with an overview of the American Postal System from its earliest days up to the Revolution. An amazing journey through history. Enjoy!
2017 Annual Holiday Dinner
What follows are a few select images from the Society 2017 Annual Holiday Dinner for Members, Guests and Friends. A great time was a had by all, with an excellent cocktail hour and sit down meal; a gift exchange; an award ceremony; a thank you to our outgoing President Doug Milliken for a job well done; a keynote speaker; and the presentation of the 2018 Society Officers. We hope to see you next year!
In Memoriam: A few days before LANCOPEX 2017, we reported with great sadness the passing of Jack Ott, longtime philatelist, stamp and cover dealer and appraiser. He was loved and respected by all that knew him. The PSLC will miss his smile and funny stories. We send our condolences to his family and many friends.
2010 Annual Holiday Dinner
Some great photos from the Society archive, club members and friends at the 2010 Annual Holiday Dinner. From the look of it, all are having a great time.
1997 Society Meeting Private Sale
On September 11, 1997 the Philatelic Society of Lancaster County (PSLC) at the club hosted the sale of a private collection through Marilyn Shirley to members and friends.
