Declaration of Independence Print Takes Center Stage at Fair Park This July 4th
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Whether you’re in town from abroad or you’re a homegrown North Texan, there’s no reason not to take in a rare piece of the nation’s founding history this July 4th season.
Visitors to Fair Park’s Hall of State can view Dallas’ original 1776 printing of the Declaration of Independence as part of the new “Declarations: America & Texas Independence” exhibition through July 19. The free exhibit brings together one of the city’s most impressive artifacts with documents tracing both American and Texas independence, giving residents and the influx of international visitors in North Texas a chance to learn some national and state history.
The Declaration on display is one of roughly 200 copies printed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, immediately after the Continental Congress approved the document. Only 26 known examples have survived nearly two and a half centuries, making Dallas’ copy exceptionally rare.
“People come from all over the world to see what we have,” Dallas Public Library Director Manya Shorr previously said. “To display America’s founding document during our country’s 250th anniversary year is thrilling.”
Mayor Eric Johnson said he requested that the Declaration be moved from its permanent home at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library so it could be displayed at Fair Park during this especially notable July 4th season.
Not only is it the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, but Dallas is playing host to the FIFA World Cup International Broadcast Center, with nine matches down the road in Arlington. Also, Fair Park is the official FIFA Fan Festival site, so there’s going to be plenty going on at the grounds.
“As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, I am thrilled to invite both Dallasites and visitors from near and far to experience firsthand an original copy of our nation’s founding document and reflect on the ideals that make America exceptional,” said Johnson.
Because of the document’s rarity and historical significance, extensive precautions are in place to protect it throughout the exhibition. The Dallas Historical Society commissioned a custom-built display case specifically for the document, while archivists are overseeing its preservation and Dallas police officers are providing continuous security during its stay at Fair Park.
While the Declaration itself is the centerpiece, the exhibition also features additional historical documents from the Dallas Historical Society’s collections that explore the paths to both American and Texas independence.
The exhibit is the result of a partnership involving the Dallas Historical Society, Dallas Public Library, the Dallas Police Department, the Mayor’s Office, and the City Manager’s Office. Admission to the Hall of State exhibit is free.
