Mount makes its mark on the Postal Service

By Ashley Andyshak
Frederick News-Post Staff

EMMITSBURG -- If you need to write a note this spring, you can send it on a Mount St. Mary's University postcard.

In April, the U.S. Postal Service will issue a 26-cent stamped card featuring a watercolor painting of the Terrace, one of the oldest buildings on the Mount's campus. The Terrace comprises DuBois, Brute and McCaffrey halls, built between 1820 and 1890.

The university began a letter-writing campaign in 2004, asking the Postal Service to issue a stamped card for the school's 200th birthday celebration this year, said bicentennial director Liz Monahan.

The Postal Service commissioned Massachusetts illustrator Frank Constantino to design the card, and he based the illustration on early photos and drawings.

Monahan said the card is a highlight of the celebration year.

"The issuance of the stamped card will serve as a catalyst to promote awareness of our strong academic programs and will enhance the public's perception of the university," she said.

Father John DuBois envisioned the university and seminary in 1808 when he planted a cross on Mary's Mountain in Emmitsburg. The Mount is the second-oldest Catholic university in the country. Only Georgetown University is older.

The Postal Service has issued stamps and cards to commemorate significant events since 1893. A Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee, comprised of historians, artists and academics, recommends designs to the Postmaster General.

Other stamps and cards to be issued this year include entertainers Frank Sinatra and Bette Davis, author Marjorie Rawlings and series of American scientists and journalists.

A dedication ceremony for the card will be held on the Mount campus in April.