15 January 2026
SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has called on the Communities Minister and Derry City and Strabane District Council to work together to erect a permanent public statue of John Dunlap, the Strabane born printer of the Declaration of Independence.
John Dunlap was born in Strabane and began his working life as an apprentice at Gray’s Printing Office before emigrating to Philadelphia, where in 1776 he printed the first copies of the Declaration of Independence, one of the most influential documents in world history.
Despite this extraordinary connection, Dunlap’s legacy remains largely unrecognised in his home town.
Mr McCrossan said a prominent town centre location, ideally close to Gray’s Printers, would underline Dunlap’s early connection to the town.
Speaking today, Daniel McCrossan MLA said:
“John Dunlap was born in Strabane and played a direct role in one of the most important moments in global history. The fact that this is not properly marked in his home town is a glaring omission that must now be put right.
“The Declaration of Independence did not just shape the United States, it helped shape the modern world. Strabane has a rightful claim to that story, and we should be proud of it. As the United States prepares to mark 250 years of independence, there is no better moment for Strabane to step forward and recognise one of its own who helped give that historic moment a voice.
“This is about more than a statue. It is about recognising Strabane’s contribution to democracy, freedom of expression and the written word. It is about telling our story properly, at home and on the international stage. Gray’s Printing Office is where Dunlap learned his trade. A statue in that setting would provide a tangible link between Strabane’s past and a defining moment in world history.
“There are cultural and heritage funding streams available, and this proposal meets every test of historical importance and public value. What is needed now is political will. Strabane has every reason to be proud of John Dunlap. It is time we said so, clearly and permanently.”