"The National Archives announced plans today for a major presence at historic Federal Hall National Memorial, operated by the National Park Service. Archivist of the United States Allen Weinstein was joined by Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) and Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), to talk about the National Archives sharing its rich documentary treasures with the tens of thousands of visitors to Federal Hall, which was the first capital of the United States. Deputy Secretary of Interior Lynn Scarlett officially welcomed the National Archives as a partner at Federal Hall.
"At today's ceremony, the Archivist unveiled the original New York Ratification of the U.S. Bill of Rights, signed on March 27, 1790, that will be on display at Federal Hall through Sunday, Dec. 17. This exhibition marks the first time that the ratification document has been publicly displayed since it was signed, according to records at the National Archives. The document is among the billions of Federal records the National Archives holds in trust for the American people.
"In his remarks, Weinstein said, 'The National Archives is committed to increasing civic literacy in the United States. We are fulfilling our promise, in part, by bringing one of our nation's treasures back to New York City where it was signed more than 216 years ago. Today, at Federal Hall, we are also opening a preview exhibit entitled 'New York: An American Capital.' This exhibition showcases documents that shaped the character of New York and the United States as a whole. Our long-range plan is to work with the foundation for the National Archives and our new partner, the National Park Service, to create a permanent National Archives interactive exhibit at Federal Hall to engage all Americans in learning about and appreciating our history.'
"Weinstein described the 'beautiful and historic building as the perfect venue for the National Archives presence in New York City. George Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States and James Madison drafted the Bill of Rights on the Federal Hall site. It was also the first home of the Supreme Court, the offices of the executive branch and the U. S. Congress. We are grateful to the National Park Service for inviting us to partner with them at this site.'"
