First printed broadside intended for preservation of the Declaration.
The Goddard broadside, printed in January 1777, was crafted with the purpose of preservation — the first document of its kind for the Declaration of Independence. This print was not only a vital record intended to ensure the legacy of the Declaration but also came to symbolize the tangible commitment of the colonies to independence. With her name boldly appearing on the document, Goddard’s contribution transcended printing, marking a significant milestone in publishing history and shaping her enduring legacy as an early advocate for historical preservation.