The Lucille Ball Stamp Part I Of II

There is a reason why they named her television show “I Love Lucy”….simply put, everyone adored her then and the same stands true in 2008. In 2001, Lucille Ball was honored with a commemorative stamp by the United States Postal Service in their “Legends of Hollywood” series.

Lucille Ball was one of the most beloved and talented actresses of the 20th century. Her memory still lives on today in re-runs of her best loved show “I Love Lucy”. Known as a hair-brained red-head, she was instead a great entertainer and powerful businesswoman.

This stamp was the second stamp issued in her honor, not the norm in postage stamp issuances, for a private citizen. This stamp came in 34 cent denominations and was appropriately unveiled at the Hollywood History Museum in Hollywood, California.

Lucille Ball was born on August 6, 1911 in Jamestown, New York. Forever a comedian, she told people she was born in Butte, Montana. Lucille’s father died when she was very young. She went on to live with her mother and grandparents. Her grandfather introduced her to theater and encouraged her to perform on her own and in school plays.

In 1927, Ball was sent to the John Murray Anderson School for Dramatic Arts in New York City. She worked with the likes of Bette Davis. After a few weeks there, she was sent home. She was told that she would never have a future as a performer. How wrong they were!

Please check back on Monday for the conclusion to this post.