| 1 | | 
Name: | Wade E. Saadi
(wadesan@pencom.com)
| | Date: | Fri 12 Jan 2007 03:33:17 PM EST | | Subject: | In Memory Of... | | |
 |
In The Memory of
W. Wilson Hulme...
Wilson was not just the President of our Society, he was a great man. His creativity imbued all he touched. He made changes and improved this Society by giving to us accountability that brought about membership growth and profitable year-ends. He was a collector, a writer, and a researcher, who won most of the Society's awards.
At the Smithsonian, his efforts helped made people notice the National Postal Museum. He brought great stamp exhibits and esteem, and invigorated the Council of Philatelists. He built philatelic relationships at every chance, creating strong bonds between and among organizations.
Wilson was a visionary and a gentle man, respected by all who knew him. I am proud to say he was a close friend and I will miss him with all my heart.
Wade E. Saadi
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| 2 | |
Name: | Mark Banchik
(mebanchik@aol.com)
| | Date: | Fri 12 Jan 2007 09:05:37 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | A wonderful person who brought an old world elegance to our hobby! Wilson led by example, serving as both a leader and interface with the larger public. His gentle presence will be missed! | | | | | |
| 3 | |
Name: | Dr. John B. Flannery
(jflanne1@rochester.rr.com)
| | Date: | Fri 12 Jan 2007 10:11:42 PM EST | | Subject: | Friend! | | | When it arrived Wednesday this news came as a stark reminder how much like a blunt force instrument the internet and e-mail can be. The word was worse than sad, and came like a blow to the gut.
My wife Linda and I have spoken of Wilson several times over the intervening hours. We three have been friends for 15-20 years. Mindful of that, we are grateful that the past year gave several opportunities to be together in as many places for dinners and other delightful functions. Would that someone of his intellect, integrity, energy and charm could be with us indefinitely?
Sadly, Jack | | | | | |
| 4 | |
Name: | Rob Lund
(robinlund@comcast.net)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 02:10:07 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | The name Wilson will always bring a smile to my face. This man, my friend, gave so much to those he touched. He has been a part of my life that I will cherish for ever. When I first received the news I felt cheated, but then realized how fortunate I was to have spent time and to have learned so much from him. Rest in peace my friend.
Rob | | | | | |
| 5 | |
Name: | Janet Klug
(Tongajan@aol.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 05:57:21 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I had the pleasure of working with Wilson on the National Postal Museum's Council of Philatelists and came to know him as a an outstanding philatelist and marvelous spokesman for not just the museum but also the hobby. He was also a terrific guy. Wilson was a modest man with the most wonderful self-deprecating sense of humor. You never knew quite when he was teasing except that eventually he always gave himself away with a grin. Philately is poorer for his loss.
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| 6 | |
Name: | Alex and Carol Linn Hall
(pbsphilatelics@mindspring.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 09:06:54 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | Wilson will be missed by all of us, and more folks than he personally knew due to his multiple endeavors. But, He, Clyde, Pat and all of the other philatelic community giants will carry on.
Our sincerest thoughts to his many family and friends.
Alex and Carol Hall | | | | | |
| 7 | |
Name: | Sonny Hagendorf
(@harryhagendorf@aol.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 10:26:38 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | I was fortunate to become friends with Wilson through the Council of Philatelists at the Postal Museum. I worked on a committee with Wilson going through the archives, cabinets, file drawers, etc., searching for material for the Museum's permanent collection. Each time our committee met, Wilson would stroll into the vaults and greet us with the largest grin on his face. He always said that he felt like a kid in a candy store. He had found his dream job and this was the best part of the dream. He liked nothing more then looking over newly discovered material that had been buried in the vaults of the Museum for so long. He often said he could spend whole days in there just perusing the material and never leave. He loved stamps and the interaction with other philatelists which always showed in his huge smile, wry humor, and amazing disposition. Wilson was always upbeat and cheerful, due no doubt to his dream job but equally to his nature. He will be sorely missed.
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| 8 | |
Name: | Matthew Healey
(healeym@nytimes.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 11:04:36 AM EST | | Subject: | Remembering Wilson | | | The few times I was privileged to chat with Wilson, I was always startled – not so much by the depth of his knowledge, which was extraordinary, as by the perspective he was able to give the facts and the engaging way he was able to impart what he knew.
When I was writing about the Z-Grill swap for the Jenny plate block in fall 2005, I called Wilson to make sure I had a few facts straight, hoping to get a salient quote for my article. I asked if he knew how the Z-Grill got its name. His response was an utterly charming account that left me with the uncanny impression that he and William Stevenson had been buddies... I was taken aback to be told that Stevenson's classification was done around the time of World War I.
Wilson had made it seem as if it were a current event – and that was his special talent, to make the arcane come alive.
What a shame he left so soon.
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| 9 | |
Name: | Harvey Bennett
(hbennett@bennettstamps.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 11:15:52 AM EST | | Subject: | in memorium | | | In addition to being a great philatelist, Wilson Hulme was the heart of the newly invigorated National Postal Museum. The empty spot he has left will be most difficult to fill.
On a more personal note, as I worked on the overwhelming task of preparing the Museums' revenues for the two auctions, every time I contacted Wilson he would immediately give me the time from his busy schedule to assist, encourage and joke about this Herculean effort. I also recall fondly the many in-depth discussions we would have on the 3c 1851s.
The philatelic world has lost a wonderful friend and leader. | | | | | |
| 10 | |
Name: | Scott R. Trepel
(strepel@siegelauctions.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 11:40:40 AM EST | | Subject: | The Great Motivator | | | When Wilson joined the National Postal Museum as Curator, he made a point to visit me in NYC and present his vision of the museum's future. He enlisted my support, and eventually we began work on the Miller collection exhibit and catalogue, "Rarity Revealed". This experience with Wilson gave me insight into his passion and devotion to philately. It also showed me how skilled Wilson was in motivating people. Call it "contagious enthusiasm." Wilson's life was brilliant, and his legacy will last forever. | | | | | |
| 11 | |
Name: | Donald Alec Barany
(donald@donbarany.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 12:40:17 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I had a chance to meet Wilson at Washington 2006 when Frank Mandel introduced us. Several of us ended up having lunch together. Although we had never met, and Wilson had never heard of me, we spent a considerable amount of time talking about the NPM and our collecting interests. This was very gracious of him and should be a reminder to all of us to be more willing to extend such courtesy. | | | | | |
| 12 | |
Name: | Kent Wilson
(turgon96@bresnan.net)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 01:14:42 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | Having just read of Wilson's passing, I am still feeling...
His gentle demeanor and quite humor I will miss greatly. I remember teasing him when he took the job at the museum about having the "philatelist's dream job" and him smiling at me in agreement with a sparkle in his eyes.
I am happy to have known him and considered him a friend. He set a terrific example of how to deal with people, particularly the rest of us who shared this hobby with him.
See you sometime, I hope, my friend.
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| 13 | |
Name: | H. N. (Jay) Hoffman, III, CEO, Hoffman Town Center
(Rupehoff@aol.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 02:58:46 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | Wilson was one of the first people I met when joining the Philatelic Council at the Stamp Museum. He greeted me with open arms and made me feel right at home, knowing all the while that I, personnally, felt like I didn't belong in such an elite group of stamp experts. For this, I will always be in his debt.
Further, Wilson's disarming charm and subtle humor was always a joy to have around. He brought a warmth and light to any room he entered.
The world has lost a wonderful man and the Stamp Museum's Philatelic Council has lost one of it's giants! | | | | | |
| 14 | |
Name: | Michael E. Aldrich
(mea@aldrichstamps.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 03:11:31 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | In philately, our lives are often touched by many different individuals. Some leave an impression some even leave a mark. Wilson was one of those special men that will not soon be forgotten. In our many chats he always had time to discuss our hobby. Many people have passion for different things. Wilson was certainly one of the most passionate philatelists that I have ever met. His love for philately, especially classic philately was simply amazing. Our hobby suffered a major loss with the passing of Wilson. A truly remarkable philatelist has left us, and he will be greatly missed. | | | | | |
| 15 | |
Name: | Leonard H. Hartmann
(Leonard@pbbooks.net)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 05:17:02 PM EST | | Subject: | Memories | | | One must say that Wilson was a good friend of many years. I can't remember when I first met him. My first memories stems from the International in Canada in 1987, Capex, with only a rough location we spent an afternoon running around Toronto looking for a small printing museum, we finally found it, they had a perforating maching from the 1860's, they let us work it using any paper we could scrounge up. He was a true student and scholar. The philatelic world has suffered a significant loss. We had two current projects with him and am sure many others had too! Wilson is a major loss to us all in many respects.
Leonard | | | | | |
| 16 | |
Name: | Dr. John Barwis
(jbatwis@charter.net)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 05:48:20 PM EST | | Subject: | The many facets of Wilson | | | My first experience with Wilson was as an observer. Never having met him, by reading his articles in The Chronicle I knew him only as a scholar. Later, after spending time with him on several occasions at The Happening in New Orleans and elsewhere, I realized that his scholarship was not limited to study and writing, but was happily - even joyfully - used to teach others without pedantry.
After several years I came to appreciate Wilson the man, beyond the philatelist. He showed up as kind and thoughtful, and was always keen to learn from others. I valued his dry wit. On recently explaining that I had found a stamp he wanted for only five dollars, he quickly retorted that "Maybe you should take a hundred percent profit and sell it to me". Wilson was a good friend and a lot of fun. He also knew when to be serious, and how to make things happen. Wilson was not just an observer of life - he lived it in full.
On contemplating the loss I feel, I am aware how remiss I have been in failing to regularly expressing these kinds of views to those who matter most to me. I deeply regret not having done so with Wilson, but somehow know that he realized it anyway. | | | | | |
| 17 | |
Name: | Alan Warren
(alanwar@att.net)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 06:18:43 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | Wilson Hulme had a love of philately that was both contagious and inspiring. The collecting world is diminished with the loss of his knowledge, wisdom, leadership, and enthusiasm for the hobby. | | | | | |
| 18 | |
Name: | Hubert C. Skinner
(hskinner9@cox.net)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 06:25:36 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | We have lost a dear, dear friend and a true prince of philately. Wilson was a fine man of high principles, a cheerful and enduring friend, a truly great philatelist with incredible knowledge of stamps and postal history, the most dedicated and capable student of philately I have ever known, a leader in our Society loved by his peers and his many, many friends. I will miss his wonderful grin and his counsel beyond words. Rest in Peace, my dear friend. | | | | | |
| 19 | |
Name: | Van Koppersmith
(cleave3@aol.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 06:56:20 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | Wilson enriched all of our lives with his charm, wit and intellect. He inspired those around him to always strive to do better. We were lucky to have known him and will miss him. | | | | | |
| 20 | |
Name: | Alexander Haimann
(bretalex1@aol.com)
| | Date: | Sat 13 Jan 2007 07:10:13 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | I first met Wilson at the 2003 APS Show. I introduced myself and he gave me an open invitation to come see him at the Postal Museum. I ended up going to college in Washington, D.C. and in 2005 I began working as a philatelist for the museum's collections department. The two of us became good friends while we worked together on a number of projects. Now as I go back in to work at the museum, I just don’t know how I will feel not having that other U.S. philatelist to talk to. It was an honor and a privilege to have had the chance to be so close to Wilson and I will remember that time for the rest of my life. | | | | | |
| 21 | |
Name: | Norval Rasmussen
(nrasmu@digitalconnections.net)
| | Date: | Sun 14 Jan 2007 10:18:52 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | My memory is full of Wilson anecdotes and stories. A serious philatelist, generous to philately and friends, always with a wry wit, and exceedingly kind. I will miss him. | | | | | |
| 22 | |
Name: | Cheryl R. Ganz
(ganzc@si.edu)
| | Date: | Sun 14 Jan 2007 10:23:37 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | In the past year and a half, I spent several hours of most days with Wilson discussing stamps, philately, museums, visions, and our lives. We felt free to openly debate any topic; we shared joy in our latest discoveries and acquisitions; we teased about each other’s strengths (and he had lots of them!). In the months before his death, he asked me to help him mount his first exhibit, a study of perforation development. In addition, we discussed new research projects with classic stamps and philatelic history that he found so exciting. Wilson was my mentor and my dear friend. He was a true gentleman and scholar, deeply respected by his colleagues and all who knew him.
When Wilson hired me as the second Curator of Philately at the National Postal Museum, I joked that I probably needed to join the Classics Society. He grinned, opened the top drawer of his desk, and said that he just happened to have the membership information handy. But what happened next was most revealing. A week later he shared that, in response, he had joined my primary philatelic base, the American Air Mail Society. Although he was so very specialized in some of his own collecting and research interests, he was a lifelong learner in philately and very open to expanding his knowledge in all fields. He loved to share his passion for philately with everyone.
Wilson looked forward to implementing his vision for the National Stamp Collection to be displayed at the NPM. He had his dream job, he worked with his dream teams (museum staff and the Council of Philatelists), and he had developed a strategy with goals and action steps to make his dreams come true. As his protégé, he prepared me well. I am committed to implementing his vision to display the nation’s stamp rarities, and I expect to have him looking over my shoulder throughout the venture. I have made new friends in the Classics Society through Wilson and deepened friendships with those whom I already knew. I know they will continue to support me in this effort. I will follow the Winston Churchill motto that Wilson kept on his desk: “Never, never, never . . . give up!” The permanent display of the NPM National Stamp Collection will be his greatest legacy.
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| 23 | |
Name: | Dick Winter
(rfwinter@bellsouth.net)
| | Date: | Sun 14 Jan 2007 11:03:50 AM EST | | Subject: | Goodbye Wilson | | | Wilson and I had a long friendship that began in the early 1970s, when he and I both were stationed on nuclear submarines homeported in Charleston, South Carolina. We met at a meeting of the Charleston Stamp Club, where each of us took advantage of the friendship and mentoring of a true old southern gentleman and wonderful philatelist, J.V. Nielsen. Wilson's enthuisiasm for our hobby and desire to learn was infectious. Our paths did not cross again until 1993 when he offered to assist the Society as the Membership Chairman. From that time to his very untimely death, he worked tirelessly for our Society. He applied unceasing energy and expert managerial skills to every task he undertook and to every problem that had to be overcome. What an absolutely wonderful person to work with! As one who deeply admired his skill as a researcher, I will miss the in-depth postal history discussions we had each time I had an opportunity to visit with him. We have all lost a great freind, skilled leader, and knowledgeable philatelist. | | | | | |
| 24 | |
Name: | Richard Frajola
(covers@rfrajola.com)
| | Date: | Sun 14 Jan 2007 02:09:51 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | It is my sincere hope that Wilson's passion for philately will be reborn in the next generation of philatelists that he did so much to encourage, mentor and befriend. Rest in peace friend. | | | | | |
| 25 | |
Name: | Martha Cavanaugh (cavanaum@si.edu.)
(cavanaum@si.edu)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 12:33:41 AM EST | | Subject: | Mr. Wilson Hulme | | | I had the pleasure of knowing/working with Mr. Hulme for the last year. I can remember seeing him every morning smiling and greeting everyone at the security desk. If we were busy at the desk, he would make sure that we recognize him by saying "Good Morning"... it really made my day. I can truly say that I speak for the entire security staff at the Postal Museum. | | | | | |
| 26 | |
Name: | Trish Kaufmann
(trishkauf@comcast.net)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 10:04:41 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I called Wilson the day he died, returning his phone call about the new CSA Catalog, of which he was the Private Perfs section editor. Instead, I received a return call from NPM curator Cheryl Ganz explaining that he had just died. What a shock. It is a terrible tragedy not only for his family, but for all of philately. Indeed, "gentle man" is the perfect description for him. He leaves an enormous hole in the philatelic world and his knowledge, passion and presence will be sorely missed by all those whose lives he touched. | | | | | |
| 27 | |
Name: | Harvey Mirsky
(HarveyMirsky@aol.com)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 11:13:47 AM EST | | Subject: | Not enough time | | | I didn't know Wilson Hulme very well, but what I knew about him, I really liked. He was a gentleman; he was intelligent; he was a scholar; and, above all, he was very genuine. I am very sorry that I won't get to know him more. | | | | | |
| 28 | |
Name: | Ray E. Cartier
(atadir@sbcglobal.net)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 01:16:58 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I had only a few meetings of the Future of Philately group at which I had a chance to meet Wilson. He
was so easy going and approachable that it was a pleasure to talk with him as a down to earth individual.
The hobby is richer for his presence and will be poorer by his absence. | | | | | |
| 29 | |
Name: | Charles Shreve
(charles@shreves.com)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 02:27:37 PM EST | | Subject: | A True Gentleman | | | Wilson...there are regretfully few true gentlemen in the world. You are a member of this elite fraternity. In all my dealings with you, whether personally or as a member of the Council, you always were kind, respectful and cared about what I thought and needed. Thank you for your privilege of your friendship. | | | | | |
| 30 | |
Name: | Steve Pacetti
(sbp57@comcast.net)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 03:59:04 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | Unfortunately for me, I did not know Wilson for a long time, nor very well. I was lucky to spend a couple of hours with him over dinner one evening at Westpex in April 2005, where his warm personality and deep intelligence made a lasting impression on me. I am in his debt for the confidence he showed in me by appointing me as Society Regional VP for the Rocky Mountain Region, and will cherish his philatelic friendship. So long... | | | | | |
| 31 | |
Name: | Nick Lombardi
(8605@comcast.net)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 05:40:31 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I first met Wilson a few years ago and had only spoken with him a few times since. However, each time we did talk, he made me feel as though we had been lifelong friends. He will truly be missed. I just wish I could have spent more time with him. | | | | | |
| 32 | |
Name: | Albert Valente
(alv@ieee.org)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 06:16:53 PM EST | | Subject: | W. Wilson and Researching Paper and Perforation | | | Wilson was a remarkable inspiration to the hobby. Our first conversation came in 1993 when I began exploring the idea of specializing in paper varieties. At the time, he was most supportive and provided me an important reference on Charles Steel. We hit it off, and his support of my work never wavered. I was most pleased to congratulate him upon his acceptance of the job at the NPM.
In 1996, I uncovered numerous letters on stamp paper by Toppan & Carpenter. The research turned on the subject of perforation and changing the stamp paper over 1857-1858. Wilson was one of the first to comment on my article for The American Philatelist. He questioned whether price had any effect on the choice of paper? Unfortunately, for the sake of brevity the answer to that question lay on the cutting room floor as so many articles had to go unpublished.
In 2005, Wilson helped bring two researchers from Great Britain to the Society's annual meeting in St. Louis. Together we discussed the relative strengths of English and American papers, and how such differences might have affected the selection of perforation gauge. This was an eye-opening experience for all, and seemed to set the stage for future scholarship.
Wilson will be deeply missed. One can speak fondly of his soft charm and whit, of his penetrating intelligence and bountiful skills in management and organization. He also exuded an almost youthful glee when sharing new philatelic discoveries.
Allow me to express my deepest sympathy to the family.
Sincerely,
Albert J. Valente
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| 33 | |
Name: | Michael Heller
(@mi.heller@verizon.net)
| | Date: | Mon 15 Jan 2007 09:12:32 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | Although it's been several days since I heard the sad news, I still can't believe that we have lost one of the most well-liked individuals in philately. While a very modest individual, Wilson was a very knowledgeable and talented philatelist, who was always willing to share his knowledge with others. I had the pleasure of visiting him several times at the NPM and the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of research at the Museum. Wilson was consistently warm and friendly, and he was always willing to go out of his way to enhance my philatelic experiences. His passing is a major loss to philately and I will miss him greatly. | | | | | |
| 34 | |
Name: | Ted Wilson
(wilsondt@si.edu)
| | Date: | Tue 16 Jan 2007 12:26:20 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | It was a real privilege to work with Wilson Hulme at the National Postal Museum. Wilson always kept the visitors’ experience front and center in whatever he worked on. And no matter how busy he was, he would set aside the necessary time for staff or visitors who needed his help. His strategy of “accessing the inaccessible” may have sounded like a simple enough idea, but he was passionate about it, and did everything he could to carry it out. He will be deeply missed by everyone at the Museum.
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| 35 | |
Name: | Marty Emery
(emerym@si.edu@)
| | Date: | Tue 16 Jan 2007 03:23:51 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | As a new employee of the National Postal Museum, I did not get the chance to know Wilson as well as others. I do know, however, that I was immediately impressed with his professionalism, knowledge, and intuitive sense of business. I sent Wilson many e-mails asking for a few minutes of his time to help me understand something or to seek his advice. On every occasion, he found time for me. His willingness to help in any way is something that I will never forget. I think it is impossible for anyone to have known Wilson and not be thoroughly impressed. I will forever remember him with the utmost respect and admiration. | | | | | |
| 36 | |
Name: | Nancy Pope
(popena@si.edu)
| | Date: | Wed 17 Jan 2007 10:32:14 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | The National Postal Museum and the philatelic world have lost a truely wonderful gentleman and friend. He always enjoyed teasing me that despite all evidence to the contrary, I was a stamp enthusiast. Although I continue to deny that, there is no denying that I was a Wilson enthusiast. He loved sharing knowledge almost as much as he loved the hobby, and there's no better trait you can ask for in a curator. I find it hard to believe that he won't be popping in my office again, catalog in hand, to chat about an item he'd like to get for the museum, or looking for background information on a topic. One of the things I loved best about Wilson is that it was hard for me to tell if he was more excited about bringing in a rare philatelic treasure or the Lennon album. An expert in his field, but a man also with an eye to finding treasures outside the typical definition of philately. After all, this is the man who helped me secure a pair of handcuffs! (It's ok, it was for an exhibit on the inspection service) ;). That's the Wilson I like to remember. A brilliant man who was also full of fun and love of life. | | | | | |
| 37 | |
Name: | Nick Carter
(dngc@verizon.net)
| | Date: | Wed 17 Jan 2007 05:57:48 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | What a wonderful gift to all of us - Wilson was an inspiring and enthusiastic promoter of things philatelic. He had time for the amateur and for the ultimate specialist and made both feel richer for having had a chance to talk to him. We shall all miss him. | | | | | |
| 38 | |
Name: | Elliot H. Omiya (EHO)
(eho@omiya.com)
| | Date: | Thu 18 Jan 2007 10:30:12 AM EST | | Subject: | Bon Voyage, Wilson | | | I cannot even being to understand the magnitude of our loss. When I met KG Taira in 1992 (who passed two years ago this month), one of the first people he began telling me about was Wilson Hulme. Like many collectors and members of the Society, I last saw Wilson at Wash2006. It is somewhat ironic and very sad that I associate Pacific 97 with KG and now, for the rest of my life, Wash2006 with Wilson, where the Miller Collection and One Cent Z-grill displays were there for all to see, the result of Wilson's tireless work. Wilson is the most amazing philatelic researcher I have ever seen or met. His story of how he found the real story behind the early 1857 perforations and the "Chicago" perfs is the gold standard by which all other philatelic research should be compared.
It is a cliche, but I know that Wilson, in the end of his too-short life, was doing exactly what he wanted to be doing. A year or two ago, I asked him, while we were having lunch together, if the curatorship at the NPM was as wonderful a job as it seemed. He said, simply, "it's even better than you can imagine."
Bon Voyage, Wilson, we will all miss you terribly.
| | | | | |
| 39 | |
Name: | Larry Rosenblum
(lr@gbstamps.com)
| | Date: | Fri 19 Jan 2007 11:15:35 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I have met many wonderful and talented people through philately, but Wilson is clearly at the top of the list. I first met him in 2004 when I was introduced to him by a mutual friend. Although he had never met me, and I am not an important person in the hobby, he spared several hours of his day to give me a tour of the museum and of the exhibit of Queen Elizabeth II's stamps. He also did me a huge favor and facilitated my introduction to Michael Sefi, the Keeper of the Royal Philatelic Collection. I am not only saddened by his death but by the fact that I was never able to repay his kindness and generosity.
I had the good fortune to meet him several more times. As his other friends and colleagues have stated, he was a very pleasant, unassuming person. He was always willing to share his time, his advice, and his sense of humor. He will be missed greatly. | | | | | |
| 40 | |
Name: | Ken Lawrence
(apsken@aol.com)
| | Date: | Mon 22 Jan 2007 10:21:23 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson's Legacy | | | Wilson Hulme was my friend, and I was his, for the past dozen years. We shared not only our passion for the fine points of U.S. philately, but also for the folly that often attends it, the subtle poetic aspects, and above all the mysteries (such as the origins of the 1¢ Z grill of 1868 and the Grinnell Hawaiian Missionary stamps, and the debate surrounding the 24¢ Continental).
I had not known Wilson until he called me in 1995 to ask my assistance in researching the origins of stamp perforation. He had seen my articles on machine-affixed 3¢ Washington stamps of 1857, forerunners of coil stamps, which he likened to his interest in 1856 Chicago perforations and other early stamp separations. He had just come from the Chicago Historical Society library, and had made notes on sources he thought I should read.
When he came to visit, he brought me a gem: an 1850s cover of Farwell’s Steam Bag Manufactory of Chicago, one of John V. Farwell’s companies. Wilson recognized this as a forerunner of Farwell proprietary perforations listed in the Scott catalog. I reciprocated his favor a couple of years later when I found for him an 1854 cover bearing a stamp with Waterbury roulettes, which he illustrated in the 1851 Issue book.
Wilson’s greatest talent was his ability to link individuals who otherwise might never have met, to multiply everyone’s philatelic knowledge and productivity. He drew me into his circle that included Keiji Taira, Roy Weber, and Dick Celler, each of whom enriched my understanding of my stamps and covers, and whose favors I returned. Keiji and Roy preceded Wilson to their eternal rewards.
Wilson called me as soon as he began his dream job at the National Postal Museum, and frequently ever since, for assistance in my areas of expertise or just to chat, and he frequently forwarded questions from members of the public to me for answers. Our collaboration honored me with previews of the Postmaster General’s collection, Stamps Take Flight, and the greatest of all, Rarity Revealed: the Benjamin K. Miller collection so he could query me for suggestions.
I called upon Wilson every second month or so to provide assistance and images for articles I was writing. He never hesitated to help, and was generous with time and resources. He brought the NPM’s rare Hawaiian Missionary stamps to Rutgers to provide references when we were conducting scientific tests of the Grinnells. His shoes will be impossible to fill, and our hobby has lost its most effective champion of our generation.
| | | | | |
| 41 | |
Name: | Pat and Dan Walker
(psw123@comcast.net)
| | Date: | Wed 24 Jan 2007 09:44:25 AM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | Dan and I met Wilson many years ago; I remember sharing dinners with him when he and Dan compared research on perforations of a couple of Dan's obscure Indian Native States and Grenada stamps with the information he was just beginning to uncover in England... that progressed to my reliance on his wisdom, humor and "get it done" attitude when I was President of the USPCS and he my VP. His pure enjoyment of the job he was doing for the NPM and for the USPCS will be sorely missed by many, not just by us. Wilson left us far too soon... rest in peace, my friend. | | | | | |
| 42 | |
Name: | Bill McDaniel
(3c1851@awesomenet.net)
| | Date: | Sat 27 Jan 2007 05:59:27 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I can not find the words to express my feeling of loss at this time. Wilson was a friend, an exceptional philatelist, and one of the most kind and generous people I have ever known. Sara and I will miss him at the "Happening" this year, and many other timnes over the coming years.
| | | | | |
| 43 | |
Name: | Bill McDaniel
(3c1851@awesomenet.net)
| | Date: | Sat 27 Jan 2007 05:59:28 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | I can not find the words to express my feeling of loss at this time. Wilson was a friend, an exceptional philatelist, and one of the most kind and generous people I have ever known. Sara and I will miss him at the "Happening" this year, and many other timnes over the coming years.
| | | | | |
| 44 | |
Name: | May Day Taylor
(mdt@ubs4cars.com)
| | Date: | Mon 29 Jan 2007 05:52:54 PM EST | | Subject: | Treasured Memories - Philatelic Challenge | | | My last conversation with Wilson was on December 5. We talked extensively and enthusiastically about "The Alexandria Blue Boy" which he had just finished reading and we talked about the successes of Washington 2006. With an easy smile he mused about a time when he found
himself 'winding down' after multiple careers but also applying for a new job. Years later he was ever more joyful in his dream position at NPM. Later in the evening we walked leisurely through the Miller Collection and we talked about future exhibits at the museum. Wilson planned to be there. It is now up to us to remember his inclusive energy and how essential he made all of us feel. Those who knew him are his ambassadors for philately. | | | | | |
| 45 | |
Name: | john hotchner
(jmhstamp@ix.netcom.com)
| | Date: | Tue 30 Jan 2007 04:01:40 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson | | | It is no exaggeration to say that Wilson was a towering figure in philately at a time when there have been questions as to whether the hobby would ever see again people of the quality of some of our forbears. Yet, if there were a person of his stature so singularly unaware of his importance to our future, so humble, gracious and without pretense, I could not name him or her.
What I loved about him was his persistence. If one approach didn't work, he found a different one that would. And he generally did this by finding the means to make the outcome a win for everyone concerned.
I mourn for Wilson, for his family, and for all of us who will miss him and the contributions he might have made if he could have stayed with us a little longer. We who remain will best honor his memory by seeing to completion and working to preserve and improve the institutions he favored with his multitude of talents and energy. | | | | | |
| 46 | |
Name: | Roger S. Brody
(rsbco@optonline.net)
| | Date: | Tue 20 Feb 2007 05:37:46 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Remembered | | | Wilson’s contribution to philately will not be forgotten. He brought knowledge, experience and charm to the National Postal Museum, making that institution a tribute to the great hobby of stamp collecting. Wilson was a special person who could educate and inspire. I will always remember his wonderful sense of humor and that sly smile that accompanied his “kid in the candy store” enthusiasm. Wilson had no enemies, and was intensely liked by his friends. | | | | | |
| 47 | |
Name: | Ron Trosclair
(rontrosclair@yahoo.com)
| | Date: | Thu 22 Feb 2007 01:17:14 PM EST | | Subject: | Wilson Hulme | | | Having known Wilson only casually from the Happening in New Orleans, I knew him to be a nice guy. His absence at future Happenings will not go unnoticed. | | | | | |
| 48 | |
Name: | Shirley Gallagher
(Birdie722@aol.com)
| | Date: | Sun 25 Feb 2007 11:12:10 AM EST | | Subject: | Farewell Wilson | | | Wilson departed before his philatelic "to do" list was completed. He was a man who took on a task and always did it well. He leaves behind a long list of friends and achievements. I always admired him for his knowledge, modesty and warmth. | | | | | |
| 49 | |
Name: | Helen M. Galatan-Stone
(hfstone@rcn.com)
| | Date: | Sat 24 Mar 2007 03:16:41 PM EDT | | Subject: | W. Wilson Hulme | | | I have just finished reading The Chairman's Chatter. A wonderful tribute to a wonderful person. | | | | | |
| 50 | |
Name: | Dr. Charles J. Di Como
(charles.dicomo@uspcs.org)
| | Date: | Mon 11 Jun 2007 08:15:11 AM EDT | | Subject: | Never forgotten | | | It can be simply put - Wilson was my friend and mentor. I will truly miss him. | | | | | |
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