Postal Museum to honor Dr. Woolery

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DELPHOS — This Sunday, September 23, at 2 p.m., the Museum of Postal History of Delphos will be honoring Dr. Walter W. Wolery for his many contributions not only to the museum but his dedication to the art of philately (stamp collecting).

In 2001, when the museum was still located in its former home, a stamp gallery was established through the generosity of Dr. Wolery and the Arnold C. Dienstberger Foundation to display this major aspect of postal history.

Doctor Wolery’s donation of stamps, both domestic and international, stamp albums, philatelic stationery, and one of a kind collectibles enabled the museum to introduce the wonderful world of philately. Casual collectors were not even aware of the existence of these “new” items. The exhibits also encouraged individuals to begin their own stamp collections.

Over the 17-year history of the museum, Dr. Wolery has continued his donations with complete sets of United Nations issues, topical collections, such as the first day covers honoring Sir Rowland Hill (the inventor of the postage stamp), and loose stamps to be given to those visitors interested in exploring this hobby.

Even prior to the creation of the Museum of Postal History, Dr. Wolery assisted the postmaster of Delphos with various promotions, such as America’s introduction of semi-postal stamps, items related to canal history, or on the subject of letters written in times of war. Dr. Wolery would provide stamp displays and would make himself available to the public during these exhibitions

“Regardless of the subject matter, you could be sure that Dr. Wolery had colorful and interesting items and stories to entertain and educate the public,” said Museum Curator Gary Levitt, a former Delphos postmaster.

A granite paver designed in the form of an addressed envelope to Dr. Wolery will be placed in the entryway of the museum, 339 N. Main St. in Delphos.  The public is invited to take this opportunity to view all the new exhibits that were completed this year and also to chat with the Wolery family.

Light refreshments will follow the unveiling.