Annapolis Tercentenary Stamp

On May 23, 1949, the Annapolis Tercentenary three-cent stamp (US #984) was issued in Annapolis Maryland. It was printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The stamp was issued to commemorate the three hundredth anniversary of the founding of Annapolis.

The design features a map of the Annapolis area
showing the water route from the Chesapeake Bay to the Severn River. Also shown are the masted ship and longboat carrying Puritans ashore to the original settlement and natural resources such as trees, hills, crab, and rockfish. It was first called Providence and at first, the stamp’s design had the words “First Settlement - Providence” on it but since no one used Providence anymore, the words “Original settlement” were used instead. Also shown is the coat of arms of Lord Baltimore, the first proprietor of the Maryland colony.

Annapolis was founded by the Puritans who came from Virginia in 1649. The Puritans came to America from 1629 to 1640 to get away from the tyranny of King Charles I of England. The Puritans were great believers in education and after arriving, immediately set up schools.

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland. From 1783 to 1784, it was the temporary capital of the United States of America. The US Naval Academy is located in Annapolis and is the third oldest college in the United States.

Activities for children:

• Draw a map of the original thirteen colonies.
• Find out more about the Puritans. When did they arrive in North America? Why did they leave England?
• What other things are 300 years old? Pick one and draw a picture or give a report about it.
• Pretend you are a Puritan on the boat heading to Maryland. Write a letter back to a relative in England describing your trip.

Original photo by Pat Hensley

References:
https://www.mysticstamp.com/Products/United-States/984/USA/
https://postalmuseum.si.edu/exhibition/about-us-stamps-modern-period-1940-present-commemorative-issues-1940-1949-1948-1949-31