Trudeau stamp revealed
By EMILY HUNKLER, Enterprise Staff Writer
POSTED: May 13, 2008
Article Photos
“I consider Dr. Trudeau to be a personal hero,” said President and Director of the Trudeau Institute David Woodland, “someone who really thoroughly warrants to be honored.”
Woodland reminded the crowd that, although less discussed, tuberculosis is still prevalent in today’s society.
“Let me end by reminding you that TB is not over; it’s not gone,” Woodland said. “In fact, every third person in the world is infected.”
U.S. Rep. John McHugh praised the U.S. Postal Service for selecting Trudeau for such an honor.
“Let me remind you that Dr. Trudeau is only the 11th individual to be selected for the Distinguished American Stamp series,” McHugh said.
“He wasn’t here for power, money or glory. He came here to build a community and make a difference. And, boy, did he succeed!” McHugh said. “It’s a history more than deserving of the stamp we are about to unveil.”
McHugh and Trudeau’s great-granddaughter Jeannie Trudeau Fenn uncovered a large, framed image of the stamp to the crowd of area residents, elementary students, village, town and school board members, philatelics (stamp collectors) from across the region and many more, who applauded joyously at the sight.
After the unveiling ceremony, the crowd migrated to the historic Saranac Laboratory to purchase collectable first-day covers and cancellation stamps.
While some purchased multiple copies of the cancellation stamps to frame and give as gifts, some were there to take in the experience of the historic event and celebrate the life of Trudeau and his accomplishments.
“I am a big fan of Dr. Trudeau, and I love Saranac Lake history,” said Kathy Merritt of Saranac Lake, who purchased several cancellation stamps. “I think it’s awesome!”
Cathy Newell, 86, who came to cure in Saranac Lake in 1949, was pleased to see a stamp honoring Trudeau.
Newell cured for a year-and-a-half and then stayed to work full time as a nurse at the hospital. After moving to Connecticut and Syracuse for seven years each, she returned to Saranac Lake, which she has called home for 43 years, collectively.
“I’m very excited because I had a great time at the Trudeau hospital,” Newell said. “Of course, that was once I got over the shock of being sick!”
Contact Emily Hunkler at 891-2600 ext. 24 or ehunkler@adirondackdailyenterprise.com.
