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A rare copy of the Declaration of Independence, originally printed in New Hampshire in 1776, has been discovered in the United Kingdom. The find, made by a volunteer working with the British National Archives, adds a significant chapter to the history of the document and highlights the complex journey of early American revolutionary materials across borders.

The discovery took place during a routine cataloging effort by Michael Scurr, a volunteer participating in the America 250 – Royal Navy Admirals’ and Captains’ Letters Project. While sorting through a collection of letters from the HMS Raisonable, specifically those of Captain Thomas Fitzherbert, Scurr stumbled upon a copy of the Declaration of Independence. The document, printed in Exeter, New Hampshire, was part of the materials seized from the American vessel *Dalton* in December 1776. The *Dalton*, based in Massachusetts, was captured by the British navy, and the Declaration's copy was among the items confiscated.

This particular copy of the Declaration, known as an Exeter Declaration broadside, was printed by Robert Fowle, the printer of the New Hampshire Gazette or Exeter Morning Chronicle, between July 16 and 19, 1776. It was one of several versions of the Declaration produced shortly after its adoption by the Continental Congress. These broadsides were primarily intended for local distribution and public readings, serving as a means of disseminating the revolutionary message throughout New England. However, due to their ephemeral nature, few such copies have survived to the present day.

Only ten known copies of the Exeter Declaration broadsides remain, and this newly discovered copy now joins them. Historians note that the survival of such documents is remarkable, given their initial purpose. As Emily Sneff, a historian specializing in the dissemination of the Declaration, explained, these broadsides were often printed on lower-quality paper, which contributed to their fragility. Despite this, the document managed to endure for over two centuries, offering a tangible connection to the early days of American independence.

The discovery underscores the international dimensions of the American Revolution. The Declaration, as an instrument of international law, played a crucial role in shaping diplomatic relations and alliances. Its presence in British custody, following its capture from an American vessel, illustrates the broader geopolitical tensions of the era. The document's journey from New Hampshire to the UK reflects the complex interplay of military conflict, cultural exchange, and historical preservation.

As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this find serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the document. It not only enriches the historical record but also reinforces the idea that the ideals of liberty and self-governance, articulated in the Declaration, transcended national boundaries.

Looking forward, the newly discovered copy will likely be preserved and studied by historians and archivists. Its inclusion in the British National Archives ensures that future generations can appreciate the document's significance both as a historical artifact and as a symbol of the shared heritage of the United States and the United Kingdom. The discovery continues to spark interest and discussion, highlighting the ongoing relevance of the Declaration in contemporary discourse about freedom and democracy.