DELAWARE — This holiday season, history buffs have a unique opportunity to delve into the past at the Delaware Public Archives. The institution is currently hosting an exhibit titled “Celebrating Emily Bissell: The Christmas Seal Story,” which shines a light on the origins of Christmas Seals and the remarkable woman behind them.
Emily Bissell, a social activist and social worker from Delaware, dedicated her life in the early 20th century to helping those afflicted by tuberculosis. This serious bacterial illness, historically known as “consumption,” was a source of great public concern in the 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily affecting the lungs.
To raise funds for battling this disease, Bissell initiated a campaign that encouraged the public to attach a special stamp, or a Christmas Seal, to their mail. The proceeds from these seals were then directed to Health Departments to aid in the fight against tuberculosis.
The exhibit offers visitors an insightful journey into Bissell’s efforts, featuring a collection of historic Christmas Seals, scrapbooks, photographs, and documents related to her tireless work. The centerpiece of the display is the original oil portrait of Emily Bissell, which previously adorned the walls of the now-closed Emily P. Bissell State Hospital.
The “Celebrating Emily Bissell: The Christmas Seal Story” exhibit is open to the public during business hours at the Delaware Public Archives, located at 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, North, Dover, Delaware 19901. Admission is free.
This eye-opening exhibition serves as a reminder of the power of individual initiative and the impact one person can make in improving public health. It also offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the rich history of Delaware and its notable residents. For more information, visit the official website of the Delaware Public Archives.
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