Historic Document Returns to the Statehouse

After years of being missing, the historic document first presented to the New Hampshire House of Representatives in 1885 by Stilson Hutchins of Laconia is coming home, according to a press statement.

House Speaker Shawn Jasper, R-Hudson, himself a lifelong student of history, unveiled the document today at the Statehouse prior to the regularly scheduled House session.

“When I first learned of the discovery of this document I knew that we had to bring it back to its rightful place in the New Hampshire Statehouse,” said Jasper. “When Mr. Hutchins first presented the document to the his colleagues in the House in 1885 it was with the hope that it would remain in our legislative chamber,” added the speaker.

On July 4, 1876, the Centennial of American Independence, a document signed by President Ulysses S. Grant was created by order of a special Act of Congress to honor the historic milestone. It was titled, “The Administration of the 4th, 1876.” It was then signed by the Cabinet members, Supreme Court justices, and members of the United States Congress. Only New Hampshire native and Vice President Henry Wilson’s name is missing because he had recently died while in office. On Aug. 26, 1885, Hutchins, who would one day publish what is now the Manchester Union Leader, presented a framed copy of this document to the New Hampshire House.

Said Hutchins at the time of the presentation, “I have thought it would be a peculiarly appropriate addition to the historical treasures of the legislative chamber, where it has been placed by the sergeant-at-arms, and where I trust it will remain.”

At some point in our history, perhaps during one of the renovations of the Statehouse, the framed copy disappeared. Some thought it may have been stolen. It remained an historical mystery for many years until recently. While shelving was being removed from the New Hampshire Archives building in Concord, the crated copy was discovered.

“As the original donor, Stilson Hutchins, had requested in 1885, I am having this unique part of New Hampshire history returned to its rightful place in the New Hampshire House for our citizens to enjoy,” added Jasper.