Canada Post spotlights Benjamin Franklin on anniversary stamp
U.S. businesses that utilize address verification software to reach Canadian customers are now able to bridge country lines with a new stamp. In celebration of the 250th anniversary of Canada Post, the mail service issued a special stamp on June 10 that portrays U.S. founding father Benjamin Franklin.
According to CTV News, Franklin played a significant part in Canadian postal history by opening the country's first post office in 1753 as joint deputy postmaster general for the British colonies. The first Canadian post office was founded in Halifax to be an accessible link between Britain and its North American colonies.
Postal News reports Franklin was unable to continue his duties as joint deputy postmaster general because of the evolving revolution among the 13 American colonies against the British Empire. Hugh Finlay became Canada's postmaster general in 1763.
Stamp creates controversy
The commemorative stamp depicts Franklin's image over an illustration of Quebec City. Franklin's visage chosen by Canada Post is most often found on U.S. $100 bills, according to CTV News.
Despite Franklin's significant contribution to Canada Post's history, many Canadians expressed confusion about why a U.S. founding father is on one of their stamps.
However, Jon Hamilton, spokesperson for Canada Post, told CTV News this is not the first time Franklin has been on a Canadian stamp and deserves recognition for being an early influence on the mailing service.
"You can't ignore the fact that the first post master appointed to set up postal service in this new land that eventually became Canada was Benjamin Franklin," Hamilton said. "He's noted for doing a number of things … but this is important."
Employing address verification software to send mailing materials to Canada is often a wise choice for direct mail marketers. However, companies now have the opportunity to place a figure pivotal to both countries on mailing pieces.