In celebration of America’s 250th, West Overton Village and Museum will exhibit a set of rare historic documents this July.

The documents, preserved in West Overton Village’s archives, give a glimpse into the development of the United States from the colonial period to the Civil War. 

“We are proud to display this collection of rare documents from West Overton’s archives,” says Aaron Hollis, co-executive director. “Our site’s significance is in the 19th century, but we are exhibiting these documents and releasing our Cherry Bounce cordial to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. We do not know the next time these documents will be available for public viewing again.”

The earliest document is a letter from Duquesne, Governor General of New France, signed July 4, 1754.

Two Westmoreland County land documents from 1787 feature Benjamin Franklin’s signature, one of which was signed in June while he was attending the Constitutional Convention. 

Several documents are signed by presidents including an 1824 land document signed by President James Monroe, an 1847 document appointing a diplomat to Denmark signed by President James Polk and then Secretary of State James Buchanan, and an 1861 document signed by President Abraham Lincoln appointing the Postmaster of Uniontown.  

The documents will be exhibited only throughout July in the Museum at West Overton Village.

The Museum is open Thursdays – Sundays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Museum admission is $15 with discounts for seniors, veterans/military, and children.

To learn more about West Overton Village, please visit www.westovertonvillage.org