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Rare copy of Declaration of Independence found by UK National Archives in papers of captured US ship
By Danica Kirka, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC)
· July 2, 2026
· 4 min read
Michael Scurr has been volunteering at Britain’s National Archives for the last 11 years, spending his Thursday mornings painstakingly cataloging documents for the benefit of future researchers.Then one day last May the retired insurance executive made a discovery of his own while sifting through...
Key takeaway Then one day last May the retired insurance executive made a discovery of his own while sifting through the letters of an 18th-century Royal Navy captain.
Why this matters in The Piney Point
The discovery of a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence in the UK National Archives has significant implications for the understanding of American history, and for residents of Piney Point Village , it serves as a reminder of the country's rich heritage. As the US approaches its 250th anniversary of independence, this find highlights the bravery and determination of the Continental Congress and the sailors who risked their lives to disrupt British trade. The fact that this copy was printed in Exeter, New Hampshire, and captured from a ship under the direction of the Continental Congress, underscores the importance of the sea battles fought during the American Revolution. For locals in Piney Point Village, this discovery may spark interest in learning more about the role of Texas in the American Revolution, and how the state's history is intertwined with the country's fight for independence.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . The Piney Point surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 2, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Michael Scurr has been volunteering at Britain’s National Archives for the last 11 years, spending his Thursday mornings painstakingly cataloging documents for the benefit of future researchers.Then one day last May the retired insurance executive made a discovery of his own while sifting through...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 2, 2026 by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for The Piney Point readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Danica Kirka, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how The Piney Point selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Piney Point, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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