Fred Rogers was remembered as a beloved friend to generations of children at the Postal Service’s March 23 dedication of the Mister Rogers stamp.
“Mister Rogers and his Neighborhood of Make-Believe made the ups and downs of life easier to understand for the youngest members of our society,” said Postmaster General Megan J. Brennan, who led the ceremony. “In ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,’ children learned, in a safe space, how to be a friend and create relationships. He shaped generations with his kindness and compassion. It’s why we honor him today.”
The event was held at the Fred Rogers Studio at WQED, the Pittsburgh public television station where “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” was produced.
Other speakers included Paul Siefken, president and chief executive officer of the Fred Rogers Co.; James R. Okonak, executive director of the McFeely-Rogers Foundation; and Jim Cunningham, WQED’s artistic director.
Rogers was the host and creative force behind “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” which aired nationally from 1968-2001.
The innovative series addressed the experiences of growing up — sensitively dealing with topics such as sharing and friendship — and featured a lively blend of music, puppets and educational visits to places like farms, factories and museums.
“Fred Rogers left an indelible mark on generations of young audiences through his groundbreaking series, and his timeless wisdom and important messages of inclusion and neighborliness remain just as relevant today as they were 50 years ago,” Siefken said.
The Mister Rogers stamp features a photograph of a cardigan-clad Rogers and King Friday XIII, a puppet character from the show’s Neighborhood of Make-Believe.
The stamp is available at usps.com and Post Offices. The USPS news release has more information.
