Special documents are coming to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum!

September 8, 2026 - October 13, 2026

As part of the “Opening the Vault” initiative, the Nixon Library will showcase seven pivotal documents that have shaped American history. 

From September 8, 2026 to October 13, 2026, these artifacts will be featured in the America 250: A More Perfect Union exhibition. The “Opening the Vault” initiative is a series of special exhibits at Presidential Libraries, organized by the National Archives and Records Administration, to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Featured Documents:

• Thomas Edison’s Patent Drawing for an Electric Lamp (1880)
• Original Design of the Great Seal of the United States (1782)
• Henry Clay’s Handwritten Draft of the Compromise of 1850
• Act of Military Surrender (May 7, 1945)
• Telegram Announcing the Surrender of Fort Sumter (April 18, 1861)
• Joint Resolution Proposing the 13th Amendment (1865)
• Wright Brothers Patent Drawing for a Flying Machine (1906)

For press information, please contact: public.affairs@nara.gov

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