Surprising Facts About the Declaration of Independence for the USA 250th

Drafting the Declaration: More Than Jefferson

When most Americans picture the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson typically comes to mind. While Jefferson penned the first draft, he was part of a five-man Committee of Five appointed by the Continental Congress. This committee included John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, and Robert R. Livingston of New York. Each played a role—offering edits, suggestions, and debate—before the draft was presented to Congress on June 28, 1776. Jefferson’s eloquence earned him the primary writing task, but the resulting document was a collaborative effort.

Editing the Words That Changed the World

Many are surprised to learn that the Declaration underwent significant edits before its adoption. Over two dozen passages were deleted or changed, including a passionate condemnation of the transatlantic slave trade, which was removed at the insistence of southern delegates. The process was intense, with Congress debating and altering Jefferson’s draft for two days before approving the final text on July 4, 1776. Jefferson is said to have been frustrated by the changes, but the final result still reflected bold new principles of liberty and self-government.

Who Signed, and When?

Popular legend suggests that all delegates signed the Declaration on July 4, but the reality is more nuanced. On July 4, only John Hancock, as President of the Congress, and Charles Thomson, the secretary, signed an early version. The majority of delegates signed the engrossed (formally written) parchment copy on August 2, 1776. In total, 56 men would eventually add their names over the following weeks and months.

• Not every signer was present on July 4th: Some, like Matthew Thornton of New Hampshire, joined Congress later and were permitted to sign retroactively.
• No one signed from Rhode Island on July 4th: Stephen Hopkins and William Ellery added their signatures in August.
• Thomas McKean's signature: This Delaware delegate may not have signed until 1781, well after independence was declared!

The Declaration’s Journey—and Hidden Copies

After signing, the Declaration didn’t stay put. The precious parchment followed Congress from Philadelphia to Baltimore, York, and other locations as the British advanced. The original is now preserved at the National Archives, but dozens of contemporary copies exist—known as "Dunlap Broadsides," after printer John Dunlap. Twenty-six of these early printings are known to survive, and they spread the revolutionary message far and wide.

One unexpected tidbit? In 1989, a Dunlap Broadside was discovered folded behind a painting bought at a flea market, highlighting how this document can still turn up in the most unlikely places.

Remembering the People Behind the Parchment

Some signers paid dearly for their commitment. Five were captured by the British as traitors, others lost their homes, and many endured hardships as a direct result of their role. The youngest signer, Edward Rutledge, was just 26; the oldest, Benjamin Franklin, was 70. Notably, two future presidents—John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—died on the Declaration’s 50th anniversary, July 4, 1826.

As we approach the USA 250th Semiquincentennial, these stories remind us of the courage and complexity behind America’s founding document. At Pumpbear, we celebrate this enduring spirit of liberty and unity—join us in honoring the Declaration and all who helped bring it to life.