August 2, 1776 is one of the most important but least celebrated days in American history, when 56 members of the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. This iconic document, which declared the United States' separation from Great Britain, marked a significant turning point in American history. But what happened to the Declaration once those 56 brave men affixed their names to it?
The Continental Congress understood the significance of the Declaration and the need to preserve it. After signing, the Congress made several decisions about its fate. Firstly, it was decided that the original document would be engrossed on parchment rather than paper, ensuring its durability and longevity. Timothy Matlack, a skilled calligrapher, was entrusted with this task, transcribing the Declaration onto parchment.
Once engrossed, the Declaration was officially adopted on July 4, 1776, a date that would become synonymous with American independence. However, the physical document itself was not ready for immediate distribution. Instead, it was decided that the engrossed parchment would be sent to a printer, John Dunlap, who would produce copies known as Dunlap Broadside.
On the evening of July 4th, Dunlap printed approximately 200 copies of the Declaration. These broadsides were then distributed to various entities, including colonial assemblies, military officers, and prominent individuals. The intent was to spread the news of independence throughout the colonies and inspire support for the cause.
Despite the broad dissemination of the Dunlap Broadside, only 26 copies are known to exist today. The whereabouts of the remaining copies remain a mystery, adding to their allure and value. However, the original engrossed parchment, signed by the members of the Continental Congress, is perhaps the most significant version of the Declaration.
To ensure its safety during the Revolutionary War, the Declaration was moved several times. It was initially kept in Philadelphia, then moved to Baltimore for safekeeping. As British forces advanced, the Declaration was then transported to a hiding place in Leesburg, Virginia. Later, it was relocated to Frederick, Maryland, and ultimately returned to Philadelphia in 1779.
Over the years, the Declaration faced various challenges. It survived a fire in the War Department building in 1800, where it was temporarily stored, and endured mistreatment at the hands of government officials. Insects also posed a threat, with silverfish and bedbugs causing damage to the document. However, the most significant threat to the Declaration's preservation was time itself.
In 1951, the Declaration found its permanent home in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Here, it has been carefully preserved and protected from further deterioration. Today, visitors from around the world can view this historic document, a testament to the enduring ideals upon which the United States was founded.
