Lanarkshire Philatelic Society

"American War of Independence"

Mr. R. Catto

Last Friday, 21^st September, the Lanarkshire Philatelic Society gave a warm welcome to Bob Catto of Edinburgh who was the guest at the meeting. He came with his display on the subject of "The American Revolution - War of Independence" – and a truly magnificent display it proved to be.

With covers, stamps, miniature sheets, postcards he outlined the whole story of the War.

He began with the "Boston Tea Party" of 1773 - when the introduction of taxes that set off the revolt against the British. This was followed by many covers and stamps illustrating the various battles of the War – Lexington, Concord, Bunker Hill. Later stamp issues showed various sea battles.

The development of the Stars and Stripes from the original Union Jack and Stripes was interesting to follow.

The painting, "The Spirit of '76" – also known as "Yankee Doodle" – was well illustrated – this picture became a vision of American patriotism.

Various personalities were illustrated, including Thomas Jefferson, John Hanson, George Washington – as well as the unknown "contributors to the Cause". Also John Paul Jones from Scotland, who fought with the American Navy, and his now famous quote, "I have not yet begun to fight".

The Signing of the Declaration of Independence on 4^th July, 1776 was displayed on many stamps, miniature sheets and covers. The round ended with the surrender of Lord Cornwallis on 16^th October, 1781.

The Second round covered the "Peace Process. The Building of a New Nation". This began with material illustrating "The Treaty of Paris" confirming that the surrender was ratified and signed on 3^rd September, 1783.

The Iconic symbol of American Independence – the Liberty Bell – located in Philadelphia, was wonderfully displayed with covers and stamps.

Many personages involved with the building of the New Nation were illustrated on interesting covers.

The display ended with a show of covers from countries around the world who issued stamps to mark the Bicentennial – 1976 – of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Mrs. Sheila Sinclair led members in giving warm thanks to Bob Catto for presenting what had proved to be a magnificent and educational display!

Our next meeting in the Caledonian Bowling Club, Motherwell Road, Hamilton, is on Friday, 5^th October, 2012 at 7:30pm when we look forward to welcoming visitors from the Kirkintilloch Philatelic Society.

Anyone with an interest in stamps, postal history, postcards etc is very welcome to attend.