V6101

Historic Railroad Stations

Tamaqua Station

Cover Announcement

Since I started as a cachetmaker, it has become apparent to me that certain subjects are favored by collectors for topical collections. My trains and railroads first day covers have always been very popular. When the Postal Service announced a mini-set of Historic Railroad Stations, I was very excited. The first one I am offering is the Tamaqua Station built in 1874 in the coal region of Pennsylvania.

The small wooden station there had been destroyed by fire, and the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad built a large Victorian style station to replace it. My hand painted cachet shows the new structure as a train pulls in for the passengers waiting in period dress. The new stamps are quite large and are tied to the envelope with a bullseye first day of issue postmark.

More than 40 passenger trains stopped at the station daily during the fust half of the 20th Centuny. A full service 

restaurant was located in the station and did a brisk business. The beautiful grounds surrounding the building became part of Depot Square Park and, with its well cared for lawns, garden, and fountain, became a focal point of the dountown area.

The size, style, and elaborate decor of the new Tamaqua Station made it an important transportation hub for the growing region. The first of five Historic Railroad Stations is now ready. Tarnaqua. Collins # V6101 at $18.50.