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Ulster Printer's Declaration Stamp Marks 250 Years
26 Feb
Summary
- A new stamp commemorates John Dunlap, born in Strabane, County Tyrone.
- Dunlap printed the first broadside copies of the Declaration of Independence.
- An Post issued the stamp to celebrate the document's 250th anniversary.
A new postage stamp celebrates the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, honoring John Dunlap, who was born in Strabane, County Tyrone. Dunlap played a pivotal role by printing the very first broadside copies of the historic document.
These Dunlap Broadsides, distinct from the signed originals, were distributed publicly to inform citizens about the colonies' formal separation from Great Britain. Only 26 of the original 200 printed copies are known to exist today.
Dunlap, who left Ireland at age 10 for Philadelphia, had become a successful printer and newspaper publisher by 1776. He secured a contract with the Second Continental Congress, leading to his commission to print the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
The stamp, featuring Dunlap's portrait and signature, serves as a tribute to Ireland's contribution to American founding history. US Ambassador to Ireland Ed Walsh highlighted the strong and lasting friendship between the nations, acknowledging the impact of Irish Americans.
