A remarkable discovery at the National Archives in the UK has unveiled a rare early copy of the American Declaration of Independence, just in time for the 250th anniversary of the historic document. This significant find, made by a dedicated volunteer, sheds new light on the revolutionary period and the lengths to which American privateers went to assert their independence from British rule.
A Historian’s Serendipitous Find
Last May, Michael Scurr, a retired insurance executive and long-time volunteer at the National Archives, stumbled upon an extraordinary document while cataloguing the correspondence of an 18th-century Royal Navy captain. After dedicating his Thursday mornings for over a decade to this task, Scurr’s perseverance bore fruit when he unearthed a paper labelled merely “another paper.” Upon unfolding it, he was greeted by the striking word “Declaration” emblazoned at the top.
“I thought, oh, right, OK, this is definitely a Declaration of Independence,” Scurr recounted, his excitement palpable. “How exciting is this?”
Experts at the National Archives have since confirmed that this document is one of only 11 known original copies from the so-called Exeter printing, produced in New Hampshire shortly after the original was signed on July 4, 1776. Notably, this is the only identified copy outside the United States, a discovery unveiled just before the anniversary celebrations.
Historical Context and Significance
The document, printed between July 16 and 19, 1776, serves as an early announcement of the 13 colonies’ decision to sever ties with Britain. Its importance is magnified by the context in which it was found—attached to a report concerning the capture of the American privateer Dalton on Christmas Eve 1776. Amanda Bevan, head of the National Archives’ project cataloguing Royal Navy correspondence from the American Revolution, highlighted that the document was captured from a ship operating under the directives of the Continental Congress, with orders endorsed by President John Hancock.
“The public is often focused on the struggles faced by the Continental Army,” Bevan noted. “However, the efforts of those who ventured into the sea to challenge British trade and the Royal Navy deserve recognition, too.”
A Symbol of Ideals and Commitment
The presence of the Declaration on board the Dalton suggests its use in galvanising the crew and reinforcing their commitment to the revolutionary cause. Bevan speculated that the captain would have read the declaration aloud, as was customary, to inspire his men. “This document articulates their fight not merely as a personal grievance but as a struggle for a larger ideal,” she explained. “Finding the Declaration in a wartime context where individuals are risking their lives at sea is particularly poignant.”
The Dalton, an 18-gun privateer, was part of the fledgling American naval efforts. Captured by Captain Thomas Fitzherbert of the HMS Raisonnable after a seven-hour pursuit off the coast of Portugal, the ship’s crew faced harsh conditions while imprisoned in Plymouth, England. One young sailor, Charles Hebert, who was only 19 at the time, chronicled the dire circumstances of hunger and illness during his two-year captivity before being exchanged.
Enthusiasm from Across the Atlantic
News of the discovery has sparked enthusiasm among historians and institutions in the United States. Matthew Skic, director of collections and exhibitions at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, described the document as more than just a piece of paper. “It’s an artifact that connects us directly to the past,” he stated. “This tangible link allows us to transport ourselves back to 1776, marking a baton being passed through time.”
Skic also emphasised that despite the passage of 250 years, the American Revolution still holds secrets waiting to be uncovered. “This find reminds us that there is much we do not yet know about that transformative era,” he remarked.
Why it Matters
The discovery of this early copy of the Declaration of Independence highlights the ongoing relevance of historical documentation and the narratives that shape national identity. As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, this rare artifact serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and the ideals that continue to resonate today. It not only enriches our understanding of the American Revolution but also underscores the importance of preserving and recognising historical treasures, encouraging future generations to explore and learn from the past.