On what date was the engrossed Declaration signed, a milestone recalled by America250?

The engrossed Declaration of Independence was signed primarily on August 2, 1776, a milestone recalled within the wider history celebrated by America250. The document had already been adopted by Congress on July 4.

“Engrossed” means the formal parchment copy prepared for signatures. Most delegates signed that copy on August 2, although some signatures were added later. The signing date is distinct from July 4, the date printed on the Declaration and the date Congress adopted it.

This distinction explains a common historical mix-up: Americans often imagine all delegates signing on Independence Day. The famous John Trumbull painting also shows many figures together in a presentation scene, but it is not a literal record of the signing event. The final parchment bears 56 delegates’ signatures.