Public Reading Of Declaration Of Independence In Findlay

There was a public reading of the Declaration of Independence in front of the Hancock County Courthouse on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 — 250 years after it was read aloud in public for the first time.

“The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence took place on July 8, 1776, making this year’s event especially meaningful as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding,” said Hancock County Commissioner Tim Bechtol.

“It is an honor to gather alongside communities across Ohio and the nation to reflect on this defining moment in American history.”

During the event, local residents and community leaders took turns reading portions of the Declaration aloud.

“The Declaration of Independence is more than a historic document. It is a reminder that our nation’s story began with ordinary people who believed in extraordinary ideals,” Bechtol said.

“I’m grateful we have the opportunity to come together as neighbors to honor our shared history, celebrate our freedoms, and recognize that each generation has a role in shaping the future of our communities.”

Commissioner Bechtol and Tom Davis (as John Hancock) were among the readers, and you can see video of the reading below.