Author Event: When the Declaration of Independence was News by Emily Sneff

Drawing on her latest research, Dr Sneff will explore how news of independence spread across the colonies and beyond, offering fresh insights into this pivotal moment in American history. This in-person event provides a wonderful opportunity to hear from the author and deepen your understanding of the nation’s founding.

This is a free event. Please RSVP to reserve your spot and help us plan for seating. Thank you.

You do not need to read the book in advance to enjoy the program. We encourage you to reserve a copy ahead of time. Click here to order your copy of When the Declaration of Independence was News from Orinda Books.

Copies will also be available for purchase at the event, and the author will be signing books. Doors open for seating and book sales at 6 PM.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1776 people could hear the Declaration of Independence proclaimed in public squares and could read it in the pages of their local newspapers. Stories of the Declaration typically recount the work that took place inside the Continental Congress, focusing on the men tasked with drafting the text. Although Congress declared independence, the work of spreading the news involved printers, post riders, ship captains, civic leaders, soldiers, clerks, orators, preachers, diplomats, and translators.
Published for the 250th anniversary of American independence, When the Declaration of Independence Was News returns to a time before the legacy of these words and the outcome of the war against Great Britain were known to reconsider what the founding of the United States meant to the people who were living through it.

This fresh perspective reveals how people first experienced the news of independence—and how uncertain and complex that moment truly was.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Emily Sneff is an early American historian and leading expert on the Declaration of Independence. She earned her Ph.D. in History from William & Mary. She is a consulting curator for exhibitions marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration at the Museum of the American Revolution and Historic Trappe.

This event is presented by the Acalanes Chapter, NSDAR, with the valued partnership of the Lafayette Historical Society, Moraga Historical Society, Orinda Historical Society, and the Commonwealth Club.

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Host or Publisher Acalanes Chapter, NSDAR