SOUTH BERWICK, ME — The U.S. Postal Service introduced a new three-ounce postage stamp honoring author Sarah Orne Jewett, expanding its Literary Arts series with a denomination intended for heavier letters and mailings.
The stamp, unveiled Friday at the Sarah Orne Jewett Literary House in South Berwick, is the 35th entry in the series and is available in panes of 20 at post offices and through usps.com.
The nondenominated stamp bears the words “THREE OUNCE” and remains valid for the applicable three-ounce postage rate regardless of future price changes.
Postal Service art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp, which features an original portrait by artist Mark Summers.
The artwork places Jewett against a Maine coastal backdrop with a ray of sunlight referencing imagery from her best-known book, “The Country of the Pointed Firs.”
Jewett, who lived from 1849 to 1909, became known for fiction and essays depicting 19th-century New England communities, landscapes and regional culture.
She began publishing before age 20 and had established herself as a writer by 1880. Her work ultimately included hundreds of short stories, poems and essays, along with approximately 18 novels.
A 1902 accident ended her writing career, although she continued mentoring younger authors, including Willa Cather.
“Her writings captured 19th-century New England life,” South Berwick Postmaster Matthew Kirksey stated.
Customers can purchase the stamp and other postal collectibles at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, through the USA Philatelic mail-order program or at post offices nationwide.
Additional information about stamp releases and first-day ceremonies is available at stampsforever.com.
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