A rare original copy of the Declaration of Independence is currently on public display at Fair Park in Dallas as part of an exhibition commemorating the United States’ 250th anniversary. The Dallas Historical Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving local and state history, is hosting the exhibit titled “Declarations: America and Texas” at the Hall of State through July 17.

The display is located near landmarks such as the FIFA Fan Fest, Big Tex, and the Cotton Bowl Stadium, providing an opportunity for World Cup visitors and residents alike to engage with early American history. Alongside the rare broadside copy of the Declaration of Independence—one of only 26 known surviving prints made shortly after July 4, 1776—the exhibition features other significant artifacts. These include Thomas Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration, journals related to the Texas Declaration of Independence, and the sole remaining copy of the Juneteenth handbill announcing emancipation in Texas.

The copy of the Declaration on view, often referred to as the “lost copy,” was discovered in 1968 at a bookstore in Philadelphia before being acquired by the city of Dallas in 1982. It is the only known surviving copy of the document housed west of the Mississippi River. Due to its historical value and fragility, its transfer from the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library to the Hall of State involved a carefully supervised move requiring an armored vehicle and expert archivists. The document is now secured in a specially commissioned display case situated in the Great Hall, under constant surveillance.

Kaitlyn Price, curator of collections at the Dallas Historical Society, explained that the exhibit aims to highlight parallels between the United States’ emergence as an independent republic and Texas’ own declaration of independence. She noted that while historians often draw this connection, it may not be widely recognized by the broader public, particularly international visitors attending the World Cup festivities.

Karl Chiao, executive director of the Dallas Historical Society, emphasized the significance of presenting the document to an international audience gathered at Fair Park. He said the Declaration represents the foundation of American ideals such as hope and the pursuit of the American dream. “Whatever it is that makes you think America is great, it’s because of this document,” Chiao stated.

The Hall of State is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission for visitors. The exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the nation’s formative history alongside important episodes in Texas heritage, inviting reflection on the enduring principles of freedom and independence.