Women on Stamps
The United States Postal Service, currently imperiled by coronavirus, is so significant to daily American life that its artifacts and ephemera have their own Smithsonian museum. Apart from delivering letters and parcels six days a week in snow, rain, and heat, one of its important functions is commemorating significant people, events, and dates, as it’s done since the 1860s. In 1893, Queen Isabella I, credited with financing Christopher Columbus’ 1492 voyage, became the first woman immortalized on a U.S. postage stamp. Since then, the USPS has recognized pioneering women in politics, health care, activism, and the arts. But it’s unlikely you’ll find one of these special stamps in the mail—these commemorative issues are typically made in small batches, and many are very rare. Thankfully, despite its closure, the National Postal Museum has a four-part virtual exhibit titled Women on Stamps. The first honors early government leaders and pioneering women, like Sojourner Truth, Abigail Adams, and Sacagawea. The other portions of the exhibit feature women in health, science, philanthropy, and the performing and visual arts. If you find yourself wishing for a pen pal to write to with all of your newfound time, the virtual exhibit is sure to be the perfect source of inspiration. All four parts of Women on Stamps are available at postalmuseum.si.edu/virtual-exhibitions. Free. —Sarah Smith
Ivy & Coney’s coloring book pages
With the evenings stretching out and the streets in full bloom, pilsner should be freely flowing from every rooftop and patio in the District. Coronavirus sucks! April is the coolest month, and this stinkin’ pandemic is robbing us of some of spring’s best offerings. Pouring a draft at home’s just not the same, especially if there’s no baseball playing there either. The best substitute for authentic spring leisure might be fantastical escape. The Ivy & Coney coloring book is a portal to a time when a seat on the rooftop with a view of a screen didn’t feel like an unimaginable luxury. Order a coney, a Chicago dog, or anything else off their take-out menu, and get free digital coloring-book pages to go. Grab some crayons and Malört and feel transported. Coloring book pages come with orders from Ivy & Coney. Prices vary. —Kriston Capps
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