Children from Freshford Church School welcomed the United States Ambassador to the American Museum & Gardens in Bath as he opened an exhibition featuring an exceptionally rare original printing of the Declaration of Independence.
Warren A. Stephens, US Ambassador to the Court of St James’s, met pupils from the school before touring the museum’s collection of American decorative arts and design.
He was joined by museum director Lucy Littlewood and formally opened the exhibition, which marks the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain. The historic document is being displayed in England for the first time this year.
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.”
The exhibition forms part of the museum’s America 250 programme, which is bringing the story of American independence to life through exhibitions, live music, performances and family events during July and August.
The museum’s grounds include a recreation of George Washington’s garden at Mount Vernon, alongside extensive gardens overlooking the Limpley Stoke Valley.
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.”
Weekday daytime admission to the museum has been reduced to £2.50 per person throughout July, helping more people see the Declaration of Independence during the anniversary year. Standard museum admission is also benefiting from the temporary reduction in VAT on tickets from 20% to 5%, which runs until 1 September 2026.
