On View for Seven Days Only
For the first time in history, the handwritten final draft of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech will be on public display.
Between November 16-22, visitors to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights can see the seven handwritten pages that became one of the most consequential speeches in American history.
The artifact will be displayed in the Center’s March on Washington gallery, directly in front of footage of Dr. King delivering the speech at the Lincoln Memorial in 1963.
Witness History on the Page
Before addressing an estimated 250,000 people at the March on Washington, Dr. King worked on his speech at the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C. Written in blue ink, the seven-page draft captures the speech taking shape through handwritten edits, crossed-out passages, and revisions.
Preserved for decades by Edward T. Clayton, Dr. King’s head of public relations, it is the only known handwritten final draft. Now, for the first time, visitors can experience these historic pages in person at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in the March on Washington gallery from November 16 to 22, before the manuscript travels to Chicago and New York where it will be put up for auction at Christie’s.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly will I see?
Visitors will see the seven-page handwritten final draft of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, including handwritten edits, revisions and crossed-out passages.
How long will the handwritten speech be on display?
The manuscript will be on view for a limited time, November 16–22, 2026.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is allowed for personal, non-commercial. Flash, tripods, monopods, and blocking pathways are not allowed.
Do I need a special ticket to view the manuscript?
The display is included with admission to the Center. No separate ticket is required.
Are there a limited number of tickets available each day?
There is no daily ticket limit specifically for viewing the manuscript.
Are tickets timed?
Tickets are not timed. Visitors may arrive during regular museum hours.
Where in the Center will the manuscript be displayed?
The manuscript will be displayed in the March on Washington gallery.
Will the Center be open on Monday, November 16?
The Center will be open on Monday, November 16, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Can school groups and other groups see the manuscript?
School groups and other groups are welcome to experience the display. Visit Group Sales to plan your group visit.
Where can I find more information to help plan my visit?
Visit our Visitor FAQs page for helpful information about directions, parking, accessibility, and more.