The Postal Service dedicated a stamp Feb. 2 honoring Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church.
The ceremony was held at Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia and featured tributes to Allen from civil rights leaders, Postal Service officials and others.
Allen, a former slave who founded the AME Church in the 1790s, was praised for his contributions to American history.
“Richard Allen was a man of boundless stature, courage and determination,” said Eastern Area VP Joshua Colin, who dedicated the stamp. “I hope this stamp will inspire every American to learn more about this uplifting man.”
Other speakers included Philadelphia Mayor James Kenney, civil rights pioneer Vernon Jordan and John Bryant, senior bishop of the AME Church.
“I have been an AME member for 80 years and this is the most important event during that time,” Jordan said.
The ceremony drew about 1,500 attendees inside the church, Philly.com reported. Celebrations also were held in other cities, including Miami.
The stamp, which is the 39th entry in the Black Heritage series, is available online and at Post Offices nationwide.
