As part of the celebration surrounding the issuance of the Claude Pepper commemorative stamp, the Pepper Foundation conducted a statewide search for the oldest stamp collector in Florida. This was seen by the Foundation as a way to enable older Floridians, who were a prime concern of Pepper, to be honored along with him. Working with the United States Postal Service, the Foundation contacted some 40 stamp collecting clubs in Florida. The search yielded dozens of nominations from individuals ranging in age from 70 to 98.
The winner was Israel Putnam, of Brooksville, who is 98 years old and still works with his stamp collection up to 10 hours a day, seven days a week. "It gives me something to live for. It is the most enjoyable hobby that someone could ever have, especially in the later years," said Putnam in his nomination letter.
Putnam flew with his family to Washington for the unveiling of the commemorative stamp, and was an honored guest at the ceremony in Tallahassee. Also honored at the Tallahassee event were three "younger" collectors: Clarence Reid, 96, of Pembroke Pines; Lucille Fair, 92, of Orlando; and Lt. Col. William Jones, 90, of Winter Park.
