Rare founding documents land in Miami for America 250 exhibit

Driving the news: The Museum of Miami is one of eight U.S. museums to host the "Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation."

• The National Archives' traveling exhibition will be open to the public June 20 to July 5.

Zoom in: Nine of America's founding documents will be on display, including:

• A secret draft of the Constitution from 1787.
• George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr's Oaths of Allegiance to the Continental Army from 1778.
• The Treaty of Paris from 1783, which gave the U.S. its independence.

What they're saying: Jessie Kratz, historian of the National Archives, told reporters during a media preview Wednesday that she hopes the exhibition inspires Miamians to become more involved in government.

The intrigue: In an international hub like Miami, the story of the Declaration of Independence may especially resonate with those who emigrated from elsewhere.

• Eight of the 56 signers of the Declaration were born outside of the American colonies, according to the Harvard School of Education.
• "They came here [and] they were able to form their own government," Kratz said.

• "People don't feel empowered and I think it's really important for everyone, whether an immigrant or somebody born here; not everyone feels that they have power. If you study history, you realize we have power and I want people to exercise their power."

If you go: Entry is free, but on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Purchasing an advanced ticket ($8-$15) to the museum guarantees entry on the day of your choosing and provides access to the other exhibits.
• Once capacity is reached, walk-ups won't be admitted.
• If you arrive after 4pm, entry is not guaranteed.

Getting there: Museum of Miami, 101 W. Flagler St.

• Parking available at Miami-Dade Cultural Center Garage, 50 NW 2nd Ave.
• Monday-Friday, 11am-5pm.