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Boeing backs America: Freedom Plane to touch down in Seattle

Boeing employees can see founding documents for free at MOHAI this summer.

January 28, 2026 in Our-Community

Rendering of the Boeing 737 in Freedom Plane livery Rendering of the Boeing 737 in Freedom Plane livery (© Boeing image).

Boeing brings history home: Boeing announced support for the National Archives’ Freedom Plane National Tour as a key part of this year’s “Boeing Backs America” celebration. As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the National Archives’ Freedom Plane National Tour is a major highlight for Seattle. With nearly 70,000 employees in Washington state, this event offers a unique opportunity for the community to connect with American history.

Why it matters: Boeing’s involvement in the tour underscores its 110 years of history and commitment to the local community. The Freedom Plane National Tour runs from March through August 2026.

  • The exhibition at the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), running from July 30 to August 16,  features iconic documents like George Washington’s Oath of Allegiance and the Bill of Rights markup, accessible to the public free of charge.

What they’re saying: At a recent press briefing at MOHAI, Bill McSherry, Boeing Vice President, State Advocacy & Global Engagement, said, “We are particularly excited that the Freedom Plane and these founding documents will be coming to Seattle, where Boeing was founded 110 years ago. We’re proud  to provide the plane and support to make this tour possible.”

Bill McSherry, Boeing Vice President, State Advocacy & Global Engagement, addresses the audience at MOHAI, highlighting Boeing’s support for the Freedom Plane tour and its historical connection to Seattle. The exhibition offers a unique glimpse into America’s founding documents, right here in our hometown. Bill McSherry, Boeing Vice President, State Advocacy & Global Engagement, addresses the audience at MOHAI, highlighting Boeing’s support for the Freedom Plane tour and its historical connection to Seattle. The exhibition offers a unique glimpse into America’s founding documents, right here in our hometown. (© Boeing image)

Local spotlight: Boeing’s partnership with MOHAI began with a $50,000 grant in 1945, leading to a long-standing relationship that includes showcasing Boeing artifacts such as the B-1 Sea Plane — Boeing’s first commercial aircraft.

The Freedom Plane is a Boeing 737, chosen for its important role in aviation history. For over 60 years, the 737 has carried more than 30 billion passengers worldwide. Now, it will carry America’s founding documents across the country, including to Seattle — just a short distance from where the 737 is built.

Boeing employees in Washington state will have a unique chance to see these historic documents up close. “When people see history, it builds a deeper appreciation for our freedoms,” McSherry said.

Boeing is honored to be part of this special celebration of America’s 250th anniversary — connecting history, community, and flight in a way only Boeing can.