Handwritten Copy of Declaration of Independence Found in Maine
Original 1776 document discovered in town records during archival research
1Historic Discovery
Clerks in Wells, Maine, found a handwritten copy of the U.S. Declaration of Independence while examining town records. The document was transcribed in 1776 by town clerk Nathaniel Wells. This discovery provides a direct link to one of America's most important historical documents. The original declaration was printed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776. The manuscript copy offers unique insights into how the document was disseminated.
2Dunlap Broadsides
The first printed copies of the Declaration were produced by Philadelphia printer John Dunlap on July 4, 1776. According to the National Archives, only 26 of these Dunlap broadsides survive today. The newly found manuscript copy differs from printed versions as it was recorded in the town ledger. The Massachusetts Council had ordered the Declaration to be read and recorded in every town. This copy preserves both the text and original transmission instructions.
3Document's Journey
In 1776, Massachusetts (Maine was part of it until 1820) distributed the Declaration to all towns. Town clerks received instructions to record it in official registers. The Wells town record book contains both the Declaration and these original instructions. A Facebook post highlighted the document's 250-year preservation. This complete record provides rare evidence of how revolutionary ideas spread through local governments.
4Other Surviving Copies
The Maine State Archives holds two other Declaration copies printed by Salem's Ezekiel Russell. The Massachusetts assembly commissioned Russell to print copies for distribution to all clergy. Ministers were instructed to read it to congregations on the first Sunday after receipt. Only 12-21 Russell broadsides are known to exist today. These rare documents show alternative distribution methods beyond official channels.
5Preservation Efforts
The manuscript copy was found in the Wells Town Record Book covering 1775-1810. Officials confirmed its preservation in town archives for 250 years. This ledger serves as a primary source from the Revolutionary era. Plans are underway to digitize the document for wider access. The discovery underscores how local records can preserve national history unexpectedly.
6Historical Context
Declaration copies were distributed throughout the colonies in summer 1776 and read publicly. This practice played a crucial role in spreading revolutionary ideas. The Wells copy provides tangible evidence of this dissemination process. The town clerk's transcription demonstrates local governments' role in national history. Such finds continue to reshape our understanding of the Revolution's grassroots impact.
7Russell Broadsides' Significance
Ezekiel Russell's printed copies were designed for distribution through clergy networks. This method ensured broad dissemination of revolutionary messages. Most Russell broadsides were lost over time, with survivors in museums and private collections. The Wells manuscript discovery complements our understanding of distribution networks. Together, they reveal the Declaration's complex journey from Philadelphia to remote towns.
8Value of Historical Legacy
This discovery illustrates how America's founding document was preserved and circulated. It reaffirms local records' importance for national history. Wells has contributed to American heritage through this find. Proper conservation will ensure its survival for future generations. Historians emphasize how such discoveries remain vital for understanding national identity formation.
Original article: Popular Science — ABD Bağımsızlık Bildirgesi'nin el yazması kopyası bulundu