Hundreds Gather to View UVA's Declaration of Independence Copy

The historic document, written by Thomas Jefferson, is on display at the University of Virginia's Rotunda.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Hundreds of people lined up at the University of Virginia's Rotunda to view one of the two original copies of the Declaration of Independence written by the university's founder, Thomas Jefferson. The document, found in an attic in Albany, New York in 1955, is one of only 26 remaining copies of the 200 sent to the colonies to alert them of its existence. The event was the first major public-facing appearance for the university's new president, Scott Beardsley, who spoke about Jefferson's vision for the "illimitable freedom of the human mind."

Why it matters

The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important historical documents in American history, and the fact that the University of Virginia has one of the original copies is a point of pride for the institution and the local community. The display of this document draws attention to the university's legacy and its founder's role in the founding of the United States.

The details

The line to see the Declaration of Independence copy extended well into the West Lawn corridor, as visitors waited to climb the stairs to the Rotunda Room where the document was on display. In addition to President Beardsley's remarks, the event featured readings of other famous speeches by UVA football player Will Bettridge, Karsh Institute scholar Lauren Duvall, Rotunda Director Sheri Winston, 5th District Congressman John McGuire, and Charlottesville Mayor Juandiego Wade. Attendees also had the opportunity to take selfies with the university's iconic symbols, Thomas Jefferson and Cavman.

  • The event took place on Presidents' Day, February 16, 2026.
  • The document was discovered in an attic in Albany, New York in 1955.

The players

Scott Beardsley

The new president of the University of Virginia, who gave remarks about Thomas Jefferson's vision for the university.

Thomas Jefferson

The founder of the University of Virginia and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, one of the original copies of which was on display.

Cavman

The University of Virginia's mascot, who attendees were able to take selfies with.

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What they’re saying

“We continue to pursue what Jefferson called the illimitable freedom of the human mind, the freedom to inquire, to learn, and to contribute to the common good.”

— Scott Beardsley, President, University of Virginia (cvillerightnow.com)

The takeaway

The display of the original Declaration of Independence copy at the University of Virginia's Rotunda serves as a powerful reminder of the institution's history and its founder's pivotal role in the founding of the United States. The event drew hundreds of visitors and highlighted the university's commitment to the ideals of freedom and intellectual inquiry that Jefferson championed.