Discovery of a Rare Document
A rare copy of the United States Declaration of Independence has recently been uncovered in the British National Archives. The remarkable discovery was made by volunteer archivist Michael Scurr, who described the overwhelming excitement he felt upon identifying the document. This particular version of the Declaration is one of only 11 copies that were printed in Exeter, New Hampshire, in July 1776, intended to circulate the news of American independence.
A Historical Context
This extraordinary find provides a unique glimpse into a pivotal moment in history. During the tumult of the American War of Independence, British forces seized this document, which later made its way into the National Archives at Kew in southwest London. According to historians, this copy was initially captured when the British ship HMS Raisonable intercepted an American ship, the Dalton, off the coast of Portugal on December 24, 1776.
A Closer Look at the Find
Scurr was cataloging documents related to British Navy captains when he stumbled upon the Declaration among the letters of Captain Thomas Fitzherbert. He recalled with awe the moment he unfolded the aged paper, realizing its significance. “I called my superior and said, ‘I think you have to come and see this,’” Scurr recounted.
The Importance of the Discovery
Saul Nassé, the executive director of the National Archives, emphasized the find’s significance, labeling it “an extraordinary discovery.” The fact that such a rare copy was located in the UK, rather than the United States, adds an intriguing layer to its story. According to Graham Moore, an expert from Kew, this copy is “one of the most unusual versions of the Declaration” due to the nature of its preservation and history.
Document’s Journey
After its seizure, the document traveled to Plymouth, England, in January 1777, before being transferred to Whitehall. Unlike other copies that were intended for preservation, this particular version was meant for distribution, making its survival even more remarkable.
Preservation Efforts
The newfound document has undergone conservation work to stabilize the paper and repair a small tear. These efforts ensure that it can be studied thoroughly and potentially displayed for future generations to appreciate. Alongside other historic documents, the National Archives also houses three original official copies of the Declaration printed by John Dunlap in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776.
Final Thoughts
This discovery not only enriches our understanding of the Declaration of Independence but also highlights the often-overlooked influences of historical events across the Atlantic. It serves as a reminder of the intricate connections between the United States and the United Kingdom, a relationship shaped by shared history, conflict, and eventual independence.