Rare 1776 document visits Maryland

A rare original printing of the Declaration of Independence is visiting Maryland for the first time to help kick of the National History Day competitions.

The document is one of the originals printed July 4, 1776 to be sent to the colonies to be announced to soldiers and citizens.

Six weeks later, the same text was printed and signed by most of the delegates to the Continental Congress. That signed copy is kept in the National Archives.

The copy visiting Maryland is owned by Hollywood producer Normal Lear.

Thousands of middle and high school students and teachers from across the country will get a chance to see the document Monday at the University of Maryland. They're gathering in College Park for the weeklong National History Day competitions.

-- Associated Press