Apiculture, the art and science of beekeeping, began when people first used clay pots, hollow logs, or other structures as homes for bee colonies.   To gather wax or honey from these enclosures usually meant the destruction of all or part of the colony.   But improvements in the design of hive construction during the mid-1800's led to the development of today's modern hive with removable drawer-like sections and separate chambers for storing honey and rearing brood.

In human societies, honey bees have come to symbolize hard work, conservation, savings, and resourcefulness.   These ideals are represented on some of the stamps you can view by clicking on links in the left frame.