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Dallas, Texas — In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, a rare, original copy of the Declaration of Independence will be on display at the Hall of State in Fair Park from June 15 to July 17, through a partnership between the Dallas Historical Society, Dallas Public Library, Dallas Police Department and the Dallas City Manager’s office. The document will be showcased as part of the “Declarations: America and Texas” exhibition alongside other historic documents from the Dallas Historical Society’s collection. Entry to Fair Park is free for guests wanting to view the document.
At the request of Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson, the Declaration was transported from its permanent home at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library to Fair Park under the supervision of Dallas Police and archivists from the Dallas Historical Society. Officers will provide 24/7 security throughout the exhibit, and archivists will monitor the document during its stay. Dallas Historical Society commissioned a specially designed display case to house the document while on view.
"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 Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson.
Soccer fans attending the FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park during the FIFA World Cup 2026 are also encouraged to stop by the Hall of State. The Fan Festival runs from June 11 through July 19. “This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce FIFA visitors to such a rare and significant piece of American history,” said Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. “As Dallas welcomes guests from across the world, we are excited to showcase an important part of our nation’s story.”
Dallas’s copy of the Declaration of Independence is one of 200 printed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776. Only 26 survive, with Dallas owning the only copy on public display west of the Mississippi. Rediscovered in 1968 and bought by Dallas business leaders, the "lost copy" was gifted to the city in 1982. The Friends of the Dallas Public Library built its permanent exhibition space at the Central Library.
Throughout 2026, Dallas Public Library will host events and programs as part of its America250 celebration, inviting the community to engage with history and explore the stories that shaped the nation. Visitors are invited to participate in the library’s America250 programs, featuring The Amazing Race for Independence activity challenge.
For more information about Dallas Public Library’s America 250 programs and events, visit https://www.dallaslibrary.org/america250.
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