PEABODY — The City of Peabody has received a historically significant gift from State Reps. Tom Walsh and Sally Kerans: a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence printed on an original 18th-century printing press located in Haverhill.

The document, produced on heavyweight paper and featuring the verbatim text of the Declaration as it appeared in 1776, was formally presented to Mayor Ted Bettencourt, who accepted it on behalf of the city.

Bettencourt expressed deep appreciation for the gift, noting its importance during this milestone year.

“At a time when our nation is marking its 250th anniversary, this reproduction of the Declaration of Independence is a powerful reminder of our shared history,” Bettencourt said. “We are grateful to Representatives Walsh and Kerans for providing the City with such a meaningful and beautifully crafted piece of America’s story.”

The city plans to display the framed document in Wiggin Auditorium, where residents and visitors will have the opportunity to view it throughout the nation’s 250th anniversary commemorations.