In a remarkable find at the Williams Grove Flea Market in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, local historic re-enactor Brian Engle uncovered a rare journal from the Revolutionary era. The journal, dating back to 1776, was found in a beer box covered in plastic, a surprising place for such a significant piece of history.
A Glimpse into Revolutionary Pennsylvania
The journal is believed to be one of only 200 copies printed in 1782 and contains entries from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives during the pivotal years of 1776 to 1781. It includes records of the Continental Congress’s declaration of independence on July 4, 1776, and details the nation’s struggles throughout the Revolutionary War. Engle purchased the journal along with other historic items for $300.
Engle expressed his awe at the discovery, stating, “I got chills just to know that history and what it’s been through.” His wife, Elaine Engle, was initially surprised by another book in their collection but quickly recognized its importance. “He’s definitely come home with a lot of interesting things, but this one probably has to take the top prize,” she remarked.
Preservation and Public Sharing
The journal provides a unique perspective on the efforts of the Founding Fathers as they worked to establish a new nation while George Washington and the Continental Army fought for independence. It also includes records of taxation, bill payments, and debates on various issues in Pennsylvania at the time. Engle noted that during this period, Pennsylvania’s governing body convened in Lancaster, a time when the state had far fewer counties than today.
To ensure the journal’s preservation, Engle sought advice from state Rep. Tom Mehaffie, who connected him with the state library. Engle was advised to maintain the journal in conditions similar to those comfortable for humans, with reasonable temperatures and humidity.
Engle plans to share the journal with the public as part of the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations. He intends to bring it to places like Historic Dill’s Tavern, managed by the Northern York County Historic and Preservation Society. “I’m excited to take it places and share it. To me, it’s not supposed to just sit on a shelf,” Engle said.
Elaine Engle humorously noted the potential for more flea market trips in the future, saying, “I guess I have to let him go to the flea market more often. Not that I could stop him!”
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
