On this day, January 25th, in 1924, the first Winter Olympics began in Chamonix, France. And what better way to mark this auspicious occasion than to share this philatelic souvenir envelope celebrating chemistry’s contributions to winter sports? Released in connection with the 1980 Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy (PITTCON), the envelope highlights a range of sporting materials and products developed through chemical and spectroscopic research, including synthetic and breathable fibers, silicones, and acrylics. Additionally, a leaflet accompanying the envelope details how fluorine derivatives, better known as “Freons,” are used to create and maintain ice courts and surface ice for hockey and figure skating competitions. And the cherry on top: a U.S. Postal Service stamp issued in honor of the 1980 Winter Olympics held in Lake Placid, New York.
Tell us, Othmeralians, what sports are you looking forward to at next month’s Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea?
Image credit: PITTCON Philatelic Cachets Collection, 1977-2002 (accession 2006.503).
