A rare copy of the U.S. Declaration of Independence has been unearthed in London, marking a significant historical find. Discovered by a volunteer at the National Archives, this particular version of the document is known as the “Exeter Declaration” and is one of only 11 surviving copies, with the distinction of being the only one located outside the United States.
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Michael Scurr, who has been volunteering at the National Archives, made this remarkable discovery while sorting through a collection of correspondence linked to the American Revolutionary War. The specific box contained papers associated with the American privateer Dalton, which was captured by the Royal Navy in December 1776. Scurr’s keen eye led him to this extraordinary copy of the Declaration, prompting him to call for assistance. “I think you need to come and have a look at this,” he remarked to his supervisor, emphasizing the significance of the document he had found.
The National Archives shared details of the discovery via social media, highlighting the rarity of the piece. According to them, this document provides a unique glimpse into American history, captured at a time when the Declaration was being rapidly disseminated across various colonies in North America. Dr. Graham Moore, a representative from the National Archives, elaborated on the importance of the find. “It is one of the rarest forms of the Declaration that we know about,” he explained, emphasising its historical context.
Following its discovery, the document underwent a meticulous restoration process by senior conservator Jillian Harrold. She employed specialised techniques to preserve the fragile paper, using an ultrasonic humidifier to carefully detach the document from its old surroundings. Harrold repaired a significant tear that ran along one side, ensuring the historic text remains accessible for future generations.
The newly restored Declaration of Independence is now part of the National Archives’ exhibition titled *Revolution 250: America’s Independence Story 1763-1783*. This exhibition delves into the events leading up to the birth of the United States and showcases the newly unearthed document as a flagship artefact, adding gravity to the historical narrative.
The circumstances surrounding the creation of this declaration are steeped in drama. The document was seized in 1776 when the HMS Raisonable captured the Dalton after an intense pursuit off the coast of Portugal. During this engagement, the ship’s captain, Eleazar Johnson, discarded many of his documents to avoid their capture; however, three vital documents remained, including his privateering commission and orders from Congress.
Matthew Skic, director of collections and exhibitions at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, expressed his enthusiasm for this extraordinary find. He described the document as a tangible link to America’s past, stating, “It’s not just a document; it’s an artefact.” Skic underlined the importance of such discoveries, encouraging further exploration of American Revolutionary history. “Even after 250 years, we are still uncovering new facets of this pivotal period,” he noted.
With this impressive discovery now displayed for public viewing, visitors at the National Archives can engage with a piece of history that has connections to key events of the American Revolutionary War. The Exeter Declaration serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting its ongoing relevance to the narrative of freedom and independence that continues to resonate today.
As the U.S. and the UK share a significant historical connection, this rare document underscores the intertwined histories of both nations. The significance of discovering and preserving such artefacts cannot be overstated, as they offer invaluable insights into the past and an opportunity for reflection on the fundamental ideals that shaped the nation.