About This Stamp
The 10-cent Famous American Poets stamp, issued February 24, 1940, pictures James Whitcomb Riley (1849–1916). Born in Greenfield, Indiana, Riley was known as the "Hoosier Poet." He composed many poems about the ordinary working people of the Midwest. Familiar titles include "When the Frost is on the Punkin'" and "The Old Swimmin' Hole." His collection "A Child-World" led to his other unofficial title, "The Children's Poet."
First Day of Issue Ceremony
First Day of Issue Date: February 24, 1940
First Day of Issue Location: Greenfield, Indiana