Postal Updates

Historic Puerto Rican high school celebrates centennial with postmark

Sep 9, 2024, 11 AM
A commemorative postmark featuring the historic Gautier Benitez High School building in Caguas, Puerto Rico, highlights 100 years of the school’s architectural and cultural significance.

Postmark Pursuit by Molly Goad

Gautier Benitez High School, a historically significant institution located in Caguas, Puerto Rico, celebrates 100 years with the postmark shown nearby.

Built in 1924, the school was named after Puerto Rican poet Jose Gautier Benitez and is notable for being the first high school in the area, reflecting the Americanization of public education in Puerto Rico following the U.S. acquisition of the island in 1898.

Architecturally, the building is an example of the Classical Revival style, featuring a U-shaped, two-story concrete structure with prominent neoclassical elements such as a monumental portico with a triangular pediment supported by columns.

Gautier Benitez High School was recognized for its historical and architectural significance when it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on June 15, 1988.

Benitez, the school’s namesake, was a prominent poet whose work emerged during a time of significant social and political upheaval in the late 1800s.

His poetry delved into themes of love, nature and patriotism, capturing the concerns and hopes of a society struggling with its colonial situation and desiring autonomy.

His poetry played a crucial role in defining a Puerto Rican literary voice and continues to resonate with readers today for its emotional intensity and vivid portrayal of the island’s natural beauty and culture.

Note that this postmark has been extended for 30 days. To obtain it, address your request to:

CENTENARIO Station, Customer Relations Specialist, 585 Avenue FD Roosevelt, Suite 223, San Juan, PR 00936-9998, Aug. 9.

Share information by writing to Postmark Pursuit, Box 4129, Sidney, OH 45365

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