Documents That Shaped America

America’s founding was influenced by many different writers, philosophers, politicians and leaders. Now through August 5, 2023, the Indiana Historical Society will showcase many of these significant historical written works in its latest exhibit, Documents That Shaped America.

Thanks to a new partnership with The Remnant Trust, the new exhibit features an impressive collection of early editions of some of the most important manuscripts in American history including a first edition 1788 U.S. Constitution (one of five known copies), a first edition of the Gettysburg Address, and an early edition of Life & Times of Frederick Douglass (1893). It also features texts that help build the major foundational pieces of Western democratic philosophy, such as a 1350 edition of the Magna Carta.

With more than 1,550 items, The Remnant Trust collection contains historic manuscripts, books, and publications that encompass subjects such as religion, philosophy, politics, mathematics, science, and economics. Public access to these important items is made available to promote conversations on topics such as liberty and human dignity.

Co-Presenting Sponsors
Ruth Lilly Philanthropic Foundation
John and Carolyn Mutz
Care Institute Group, Inc.

Supporting Sponsors
Stan and Sandy Hurt
Pierre F. and Enid Goodrich Foundation

Contributing Sponsors
Lewis Bakeries
Nicholas H. Noyes, Jr., Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Opening Reception Sponsor
Marianne Williams Tobias