American Ambassador opens Declaration of Independence exhibition

The American Ambassador to the UK visited The American Museum & Gardens to open the exhibition of an extremely rare original printing of the Declaration of Independence, on display in England for the first time at the Museum. It is on display as part of the Museum’s series of special exhibitions and events marking the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain.

Warren A. Stephens, American Ambassador to the Court of St James, was greeted by children from Freshford Church School before touring the Museum’s outstanding collection of American decorative arts and design and formally opening the Declaration of Independence exhibition.

Following the visit, Ambassador Stephens said: “The ties between our countries run deep, are visible across the United Kingdom, and speak to a living connection that goes far beyond bricks and mortar. It is why I’m honoured to open this exhibit celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. We know this exhibition will inspire visitors to reflect on the special relationship that has enriched our two countries for centuries, and that continues to do so today.”

Lucy Littlewood, Director of The American Museum & Gardens, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Ambassador Stephens to the Museum during this significant 250th anniversary year. America 250 provides an opportunity to reflect on our shared histories and culture. The exhibitions and events we have created at the Museum and in our gardens enable people to discover the diverse and astonishing decorative arts of America, learn more about its history and have a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the Declaration of Independence – a document which changed the world.”

America 250 programme

We’re bringing the story of American independence to life through a wide-ranging programme of exhibitions, performances and family events marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, with events taking place during throughout the year.

To help as many people as possible experience the Museum during this landmark 250th anniversary year - including the rare opportunity to see the Declaration of Independence - weekday daytime admission throughout July has been reduced to just £2.50 per ticket. To help families make the most of the summer holidays, the Government has also reduced VAT on standard museum admission tickets from 20% to 5% between 25 June and 1 September 2026, making visits to museums more affordable throughout the school break.