Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Marian Anderson Commemorative Stamp Dedication at DAR Headquarters

Pamela Wright, President General

Today marks the 20th anniversary of the unveiling of the Marian Anderson commemorative stamp. On January 27, 2005, at the invitation of the United States Postal Service and the family of Marian Anderson, DAR co-hosted the unveiling of a commemorative U.S. postage stamp honoring the operatic and concert star at DAR Headquarters. 

Click here to view a video with highlights from the
Marian Anderson Commemorative Stamp Dedication Ceremony in 2005

The dedication ceremony was a tribute to Marian Anderson’s extraordinary life and legacy as a world-renowned contralto and an inspirational figure whose artistry transcended boundaries. DAR was deeply honored to co-host this meaningful event, recognizing Anderson’s profound influence on American music and culture.

Having the stamp dedication ceremony held at DAR Headquarters was a moving event that recognized the symbolism of the journey of progress from Marian Anderson first not being allowed to sing in Constitution Hall in 1939 because of her race, to being invited by the DAR to sing in Constitution Hall in 1943, and subsequently performing in Constitution Hall on a number of occasions including the launch of her farewell tour in 1964.

It was a special moment for many when then-DAR President General Presley Wagoner welcomed the attendees to DAR Headquarters, expressing in part: “We deeply regret that Marian Anderson was not given the opportunity to perform her 1939 Easter concert in Constitution Hall but recognize that in the positive sense the event was a pivotal point in the struggle for racial equality… I stand before you today wishing that history could be re-written, knowing that it cannot, and assuring you that DAR has learned from the past…. On this day we celebrate the life, the talent and the legacy of Marian Anderson. America is a better place because of her dreams and her sacrifices. As a nation, we can be grateful that she opened so many doors for all those who follow; and, as an organization, the DAR is genuinely pleased to pay tribute to her memory." Click here to watch a video of Mrs. Wagoner’s entire remarks.

James DePriest, the nephew of Marian Anderson and a well-known American conductor, represented the family and gave touching remarks, including in part: “On behalf of the family, I want to particularly thank Mrs. Wagoner for her remarks… Everything that needed to be said today has been said… This moment and this day is so fraught with both symbolism and iconography and the symbolism goes back far beyond 1939… My aunt’s devotion was to two things, really: singing, of course, and also to her mother, my grandmother… she would have never imagined a day like today… So I know particularly on behalf of my aunt, this day is really for my grandmother, her mother.” Click here to watch a video of Mr. DePriest’s entire remarks.

The event brought together luminaries from the world of music, history, and civil rights. Renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves gave a stirring performance, and the talented students of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts added their voices to the celebration. The event also welcomed distinguished guests, including members of Anderson’s family, Deputy Postmaster General John Nolan, and representatives from the USPS and DAR. Together, they celebrated a woman whose talent, grace, and resilience left an indelible mark on the world.

The Marian Anderson commemorative stamp, part of the USPS Black Heritage series, captures the grace and dignity of a woman who overcame incredible obstacles to become one of the greatest voices of her time. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, artistry, and courage.

We invite you to revisit the highlights of the 2005 stamp ceremony through video clips and photos in the Marian Anderson section of our website.

Ongoing Commitment 
Over the past 20 years, DAR has continued to commemorate Ms. Anderson’s extraordinary life and contributions in myriad ways such as anniversary celebrations at the Lincoln Memorial, hosting commemorative concerts in her honor at Constitution Hall, contributing to PBS documentaries, creating online resources and archival exhibits, and joining with others to celebrate the renaming of the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra Marian Anderson Hall. DAR members help support future commemorative initiatives, as well as the DAR Marian Anderson Legacy Scholarship, through the DAR Marian Anderson Legacy Fund.

Upcoming Celebrations
We are especially pleased to announce that after a strenuous four-year restoration effort, the National Marian Anderson Museum in Philadelphia will be reopening on March 1, 2025. The Museum is housed in the historic row house that Ms. Anderson and her family used to live in. After suffering a devastating flood caused by pipes bursting, the Museum has gone through a comprehensive historic restoration to reopen to the public with upgraded exhibits, wiring, and facilities so it is ready for a new century of education and service. DAR was proud to provide more than $200,000 to support the Museum’s restoration efforts.

We are thrilled to be joining in the Marian Anderson Museum reopening festivities in Philadelphia and DAR is proud to be a sponsor of the Reopening Gala Celebration on March 2, 2025. DAR members and the public who would like to join me and other Executive Officers at the Gala can learn more and purchase tickets at the Marian Anderson Museum’s website here.

As DAR reflects on the 20th anniversary of the stamp ceremony, we remain deeply proud to have hosted this tribute to Marian Anderson. Her legacy continues to inspire millions, and her influence resonates not only in the world of music but also for those championing equality. I hope DAR members feel proud to share our ongoing commitment to honor this remarkable woman.

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