Get ready for a historic moment as the U.S. Postal Service pays tribute to Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet, with a stunning new stamp!
On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will honor the remarkable life and legacy of Phillis Wheatley with the release of the 49th stamp in its Black Heritage series. This special edition stamp commemorates Wheatley, who made history in the American Colonies as the first author of African descent to publish a book. The unveiling event is set to take place at 11 a.m. EST at the Old South Meeting House in Boston, Massachusetts, and it’s free for the public to attend, making it a must-see for history and literature enthusiasts alike.
Born in West Africa in 1753, Wheatley was brought to Boston on a slave ship and faced the hardships of enslavement. However, her intelligence and talent were nurtured in the Wheatley household, allowing her to receive an education that was rare for people of her background at the time. In 1773, she published her groundbreaking collection, “Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral,” which showcased her exceptional talent in various poetic forms, securing her place in literary history. Remarkably, the same year she was freed from slavery, she became known for her correspondence with prominent figures, including George Washington, who recognized her poetic brilliance.
Wheatley’s contributions to literature and her role as a symbol of resilience have earned her the title of “the mother of African American literature.” Her works were pivotal in the abolitionist movement, as they served to challenge the prevailing notions about the intellectual capabilities of people of African descent. Today, her influence is evident in the many schools, libraries, and community centers named in her honor across the United States. A statue representing Wheatley was included in the Boston Women’s Memorial in 2003, further solidifying her legacy.
The stamp will feature an artistic design by Antonio Alcalá, an art director for USPS, utilizing a portrait by renowned artist Kerry James Marshall. Issued in panes of 20, the Phillis Wheatley Forever stamp will maintain its value against current First-Class Mail rates, making it not only a collector’s item but also a tribute to a trailblazer.
For those interested in attending the first-day-of-issue ceremony, it’s recommended to RSVP for the event at the USPS website.
