Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s commemorative Forever stamp is now officially available, a heartfelt tribute to a woman who played a vital role in American history. This stamp was dedicated in a ceremony held on June 10 in Kennebunkport, Maine, just two days after what would have been Barbara Bush’s 100th birthday. The dedication comes as part of the United States Postal Service’s ongoing effort to honor influential figures from our past.
Barbara Bush was not just a remarkable first lady; she was also the wife of George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States, and the mother of George W. Bush, the 43rd President. Her commitment to public service, literacy, and family health left an indelible mark on the American landscape. Following her legacy, other former first ladies like Nancy Reagan and Betty Ford received their own commemorative Forever stamps in recent years, in 2022 and 2024, respectively, celebrating their unique contributions to society.
The stamp features Barbara Bush’s official White House portrait, masterfully created by artist Chas Fagan. Known for his work in depicting notable real-life figures, Fagan has previously painted portraits of all 45 U.S. presidents for CSPAN’s “American Presidents: Life Portraits” exhibition. He has also sculpted statues of iconic figures, including Ronald Reagan and Neil Armstrong, but the opportunity to create a portrait for the USPS stamp marks a significant milestone in his impressive career. Fagan shared with TODAY.com that the chance to have a stamp made in her honor was not only a professional achievement but also a personal honor: “It probably could not happen to a nicer person.”
The intention behind official portraits, like that of Barbara Bush, is to present these individuals in a light that visitors might appreciate. Fagan explained, “In capturing first ladies and presidents, you’re trying to present them as visitors would like to see them or meet them for the first time when they arrive at the White House.” This effort serves as an introduction for people who may never have the opportunity to meet these influential figures in person.
Fagan’s task of capturing Barbara Bush’s essence may have seemed daunting initially, but his nerves quickly dissipated when he met her. He recounted, “I was nervous as can be when I arrived there. But immediately, her humor came out, so that made everything much more relaxed and genuine for me.” This warmth was evident in every aspect of the portrait.
Remarkably, many of the stylistic choices in the portrait were made by Barbara Bush herself. She chose the purple top, pearl necklace, and pin that she would wear for her official portrait. Interestingly, Fagan initially included her beloved English springer spaniel, Millie, in the painting after observing Barbara interact with her pet. Fagan said, “It’s at the point that I asked if we might consider having Millie in the portrait. And she loved the idea of being able to revive Millie for the occasion.” However, Millie did not make the final cut for the stamp; this decision was made to ensure that the focus remained solely on the former first lady.
Fagan’s portrait aims to evoke a sense of warmth and welcome, mirroring how Barbara Bush interacted with people throughout her life. “It’s got a little bit of warmth to it,” he explains. “You can see the humor about to come out. That was my absolute goal.” The adjustments made for the stamp, including the exclusion of Millie, enhance this warmth further, emphasizing Barbara Bush’s personality and legacy.
The availability of this stamp serves as a reminder of Barbara Bush’s impactful life and contributions. It is a small but meaningful way to celebrate a woman whose dedication to family and service resonated with many. Those who encounter this stamp can take a piece of history home, allowing them to share in a legacy that emphasizes kindness, humor, and the importance of community.
As we reflect on the life of Barbara Bush, the stamp stands as an enduring tribute, capturing the spirit of a woman who was deeply committed to making the world a better place. Each stamp can be seen as a portal, transporting us back to a time when her laughter and grace filled the halls of the White House. It offers a tangible way for future generations to remember her contributions and her role as a nurturing leader both within her family and the nation.
In conclusion, the official Barbara Bush Forever stamp is not just a commemorative item; it embodies the values she championed throughout her life. It represents her unwavering commitment to literacy, family health, and public service while providing an opportunity for people to engage with her legacy. As we celebrate her remarkable journey, we are reminded of the impact one individual can have on countless lives.
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