Williamstown has received something special this month — a hand-printed reproduction of the Declaration of Independence, produced using 18th-century techniques on a wooden press with handmade paper, just as it would have been in 1776.
The reproduction is part of a statewide initiative led by the Revolution 250 Commission and MA250, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. 250 years ago, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress ordered copies of the Declaration distributed to every parish in the Commonwealth, directing that ministers read the words aloud to local residents. This year, that tradition has been recreated — with hand-printed reproductions delivered to all 351 Massachusetts cities and towns.
Each copy was printed by The Printing Office of Edes & Gill at the Museum of Printing in Haverhill using authentic 18th-century typesetting and cotton-linen paper, recreating the original Russell Declaration first printed in Salem around July 17, 1776. It is the first time in 250 years that this reproduction has been made using these traditional methods.
Williamstown’s copy will be preserved permanently in the town archives. Thank you to Senator Paul Mark for making sure our community is part of this remarkable moment in history.
Want to see it in person? Stop by the Town Clerk’s Office and ask to view the Town’s copy of the Declaration through Friday, July 17. Visit during normal business hours — we’d love to share it with you.