The Story of Owney: The Postal Dog of St. Louis

Owney’s Beginnings

In the heart of Albany, New York, during 1888, a stray dog found a unique calling when he wandered into a local post office. Affectionately known as Owney—short for Owen—this spirited canine became a companion to mail wagons and Railway Mail Service train cars, showcasing his love for adventure. As he journeyed across the nation, clerks from various postal offices proudly adorned his collar with over 400 metal tags, each telling a story of travel and connection. A special harness was gifted to him by Postmaster General John Wanamaker to support the growing weight of his prized collection, which is now celebrated at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum.

Owney’s Travels through St. Louis

Owney was more than just a dog; he was a sensation. Local newspapers chronicled his escapades, including his frequent visits to St. Louis, a pivotal rail hub since the completion of the Eads Bridge in 1874. Owney’s stops at St. Louis post offices allowed him to collect tags that celebrated his journeys.

A notable mention was found in the St. Louis Globe-Democrat on March 27, 1893, mentioning “The Canine Tramp” spending the night in the city before continuing his trek southward. Another excerpt from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on August 9, 1894, described how he arrived at Union Station with around 50 tags proudly displayed. Not only was he a joy to encounter, but he was said to bring good fortune, as no trains he boarded ever faced mishaps.

Memorable Gifts from St. Louis

Owney received a remarkable piece of rare currency from St. Louis postmaster J. B. Harlow on March 24, 1894. This Columbian half-dollar was one of the first commemorative coins in the United States, minted for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Such gestures reinforced Owney’s beloved status within the postal service community.

Owney’s Spectacular Journey

Owney’s travels were not limited to the boundaries of the United States. With an adventurous itinerary planned by Tacoma’s Assistant Postmaster Stockings, he was set to voyageto foreign shores. His journey included a trip to Hong Kong before navigating back home, ensuring that his fame crossed oceans. Unfortunately, his luck waned during his final trip to Toledo, Ohio, where he met a tragic end following a bullet wound on June 11, 1897.

The Legacy of Owney

His passing was grieved by postal workers who raised funds for his preservation, ultimately presenting him to the Post Office Department in Washington, DC. By 1911, Owney’s story continued at the Smithsonian, where he stood as a testament to loyalty and adventure, sporting his rich collection of tags. His story remains a treasure trove of nostalgia at the National Postal Museum, serving as a reminder of the bond between man’s best friend and the human experience.

Owney at the 1904 World’s Fair

The world converged in St. Louis during the 1904 World’s Fair, and Owney made an unforgettable appearance. His presence was highlighted by the Cleveland Leader, noting his exhibit in the postal department’s exhibition, where visitors could marvel at a specially designed harness and the legendary dog himself.

Attendees could even take home a piece of Owney with the souvenir spoon created by the Webb C. Ball Company featuring him, representing the whimsical nature of that era.

Owney’s Contemporary Influence

Fast forward to today, and Owney’s legacy still resonates. Residing in the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum, his features—including a harness adorned with medals—offer a glimpse into a rich history. The year 2011 marked a significant chapter as Owney received conservation treatment and a forever stamp, honoring his remarkable travels and connection to American history.

For families and children alike, Owney continues to inspire stories and literature, captivating our imagination as he journeys through time.

Заключні думки

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