Panel hears SJR 9 asking USPS to issue commemorative Snowshoe Thompson stamp

Senate Joint Resolution 9 (SJR 9), presented by Sen. Robin Titus, requests that the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee and the Postmaster General of the United States Postal Service consider issuing a commemorative postage stamp honoring John “Snowshoe” Thompson.

Sen. Robin Titus, R-Western Nevada, introduced the measure and turned the presentation to Catherine Villasenor, an intern who summarized Thompson’s biography: born in Norway in 1827, Thompson immigrated to the United States, fashioned long oak skis from memories of Norwegian winter travel, and from about 1856 to 1876 carried mail across the Sierra Nevada between Placerville, Calif., and Genoa, Nevada. Villasenor described Thompson’s 90-mile treks through deep snow carrying heavy packs, his rescues of stranded travelers, and his attempts to petition the federal government for compensation (which Villasenor said were unsuccessful). The resolution notes April 30, 2027, as the 200th anniversary of Thompson’s birth and urges issuance of a commemorative stamp.

Support and testimony: Steve McMartin Wills and members of the Snowshoe Thompson chapter of E Clampus Vitus, the Friends of Snowshoe Thompson and the Genoa Historical Society testified in support. Bryce Lister, appearing in Carson City for the friends group, said local books and pamphlets recount Thompson’s life and that a stamp would help honor his legacy and educate the public. Caller Oscar Williams said a 200th birthday commemoration could draw international attention and tourism to northwestern Nevada.

Committee questions and clarifications: Members asked whether the proposed stamp would be a “forever” stamp or another denomination; Titus said the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee and USPS would decide denomination and that the sponsor’s role was to request consideration for a commemorative stamp for the bicentennial. Members also asked about local resources such as the Genoa Historical Society and local publications documenting Thompson’s life.

Outcome and next steps: The committee heard the presentation and public testimony and closed the hearing; no committee vote occurred in the session. Titus asked that the measure be supported as a way to recognize a historical figure’s service connecting Nevada and regional history.

Ending note: Supporters described the resolution as a symbolic recognition ahead of the bicentennial; the committee closed the hearing and moved on to other business.