stamp campaign | karenmgreenwald

SIGNED, SEALED, AND CAMPAIGNED!

The US Postal Service considers suggestions for stamps that reflect the American experience.

Susanna Madora Salter's shocking rise to political fame marked a change in American history.

She became the first woman to win/hold this position in both the US and the world. Her election

shined a powerful light on the potential for equality. Susanna's bravery and subsequent victory

became a popular topic in newspapers on most continents. Her willingness to take a risk in the

face of public humiliation and stay on the ballot as an actual candidate—and the Argonians who

supported her reflect the words that conclude America's national anthem..."Home of thy brave!"

Susana Salter, pictured left. The other

two drawings are newspaper renderings by artists who never saw or met her, circa 1887.

Teachers, turn your classroom into campaign headquarters! Argonia's

election of April 4, 1887 is long over, but you can still vie for victory.

Here's how:

After discussing A VOTE FOR SUSANNA, have students write their own

letters to the US Postal Service Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING IN EACH LETTER:

1. Explain why you think Susanna Salter should be commemorated.

2. Discuss how, while serving, Mayor Salter received thousands of

letters in the mail from women & men (around the world).

3. Mayor Salter wrote back to as many of the well-wishers as possible.

a. Her official salary was $1.00 (a pricey hat in Argonia

at that time would have cost $3.00).

b. Mayor Salter paid for her stationary and stamps herself.

Before mailing the packets to the address below, ask students to make sure

the following steps have been followed:

The proposal letters are written and include pertinent historical information and important dates associated with Susanna Salter (the candidate).
The letters only discuss Susanna Salter.
The package of letters has adequate postage and will be mailed to:

Stamp Development

Attn: Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee

475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 3300

Washington, DC 20260-3501