A thrilling discovery has emerged from the depths of the UK's National Archives, shedding light on a pivotal moment in American history. On a seemingly ordinary Thursday morning, Michael Scurr, a dedicated volunteer, stumbled upon a treasure trove of historical significance. Among the stacks of documents, he uncovered a 'vanishingly rare' copy of the US Declaration of Independence, an early printing that predates the 250th anniversary of its signing by just weeks. This find is not merely a relic but a testament to the intricate web of transatlantic connections during the American Revolution.
The document in question, known as the Exeter printing, is one of only 11 surviving copies worldwide and the first to be found outside the United States. Its journey is a captivating narrative in itself. Graham Moore, a records specialist, highlights the document's 'amazingly complete story,' detailing how it ended up in the possession of the Royal Navy. The Declaration was discovered on the Dalton, an American privateer vessel, after it was captured by a British warship off the coast of Spain in December 1776. This capture provides a unique glimpse into the dissemination of news during the revolutionary era.
The Exeter printing was printed between July 16 and 19, allowing time for news of the Declaration's signing in Philadelphia to spread. These 'broadsides' were designed for rapid distribution, ensuring the message reached as many people as possible swiftly. Moore suggests that Eleazer Johnson, the ship's captain, likely purchased a copy in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where the Dalton briefly stopped. Johnson's commitment to the American cause is evident in his declaration of American citizenship, a statement considered treasonous by the British crown.
The crew of the Dalton, a diverse group of sailors, included Daniel Cottle, a free black man, as described in the muster book. This finding aligns with the historical context of the American Revolution, where free black individuals fought on both sides. Cottle's story, however, remains somewhat shrouded in mystery. After the capture, he was transferred to a guard ship and eventually taken to England, where he was held in the Old Mill prison in Plymouth. Moore expresses the hope that further research might reveal more about Cottle's background, particularly his potential connection to Newburyport, Massachusetts.
The discovery of this rare Declaration copy serves as a powerful reminder of the transatlantic nature of the American Revolution. Saul Nassé, the chief executive of the National Archives, emphasizes the document's importance, not only as a historical artifact but also for its rich story. The provenance of the document, from the print shop in Exeter to its capture and eventual inclusion in the National Archives, is exceptionally rare and adds to the allure of this extraordinary find.
