The U. S. Postal Service will unveil the new Richard Allen Black Heritage stamp as part of the program for Allen University’s 146th Founders Day celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 9.  The event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon in the John Hurst Gymnatorium, 1512 Pine St. Columbia, SC 29204.  Darryl Martin, District Manager of the Greater South Carolina District of the Postal Service and Dr. Lady June Cole, President of Allen University will serve as dedicating officials.

Allen University was founded in 1870 by former slaves and is still supported by the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church.  It is named for Richard Allen, founder of A.M.E., the oldest independent Protestant denomination founded by black people in the world.

The 39th stamp of the Black Heritage Series recognizes preacher, activist and civic leader Richard Allen for his inspirational life and profound contribution to American history.  It coincides with the 200th anniversary of Allen’s founding of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church, considered one of the most important institutions in African American life, and Allen’s election and consecration as A.M.E.’s first bishop.

“We’re delighted to join with the students, professors and administrators of Allen University to celebrate the life of Richard Allen,” said Greater South Carolina Postal District Manager, Darryl Martin.  “Like other historic figures in the Black Heritage Series, he will represent a unique and important contribution to American history.”

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