What great news.
The National Archives in London found a copy of the US Declaration of Independence.
The rare copy has undergone conservation works to stabilise its paper and repair a slight tear, making it safe for handling, study and future display.
It will go on display as part of Revolution 250: America’s Independence Story, 1763-1783 at The National Archives.
The National Archives already holds three of the original official copies of the Declaration of Independence printed by John Dunlap in Philadelphia on 4 July 1776.
Around 200 copies are likely to have been printed on the night, of which only 26 are known to have survived until today.
It is part of the National Archives “Revolution 250: America’s Independence Story 1763–1783” exhibition. Hopefully, I can go and see it in person.
Glad to hear of this historic discovery. It might be regarded as ironic that it was found in London, but presumably Jefferson or someone must have popped it in the post to George III back in the day.
ReplyDeleteIt's actually very interesting.
DeleteIt belonged to the Captain of a Privateer vessel , as it were on official US government business. It was apprehended by the British navy in Spain or Portugal and the crew imprisoned in Plymouth (England) under rather harsh conditions. The documents were seized and the declaration directly to the Admiralty. Many years later, taken to the archive office.
Interesting, isn't it.