1969 - Intercollegiate Football

This stamp commemorates 100 years since the first intercollegiate football game.  The American version of football was created in the 1800's.  At that time each side had 30 or more players and the football could only be kicked.  As the game gained popularity, rules were adopted and teams became organized.  The first game between colleges was played in New Brunswick, New Jersey on Nov. 6, 1869.  Rutgers University defeated Princeton (then known as the College of New Jersey) 6-4.  What is shown here is another way to collect stamps - by having the stamp placed on an envelope and cancelled.  This is a special envelope and cancellation mark issued in Green Bay expressly for this stamp.  First day of issue was September 26, 1969 in New Brunswick, New Jersey.  139 million stamps were printed.  Scott # 1382.