Sweets in Strabane: The Printing Press Where the Declaration of Independence's Printer Learned His Trade

Strabane's Gray's Printing Press is where John Dunlap learned his trade before emigrating and printing the first published copies of the US Declaration of Independence.

A press behind a shop front

Gray's Printing Press, at 49 Main Street, was listed as a printing press in the mid-18th century and supplied books, pamphlets and newspapers to the local community. It is now looked after by the National Trust.

From Strabane to Philadelphia

John Dunlap was born in Strabane around 1746 or 1747 and was sent to Philadelphia at the age of ten to work for his uncle, a printer. When the Declaration was approved, John Hancock had Dunlap print an estimated 200 broadsides, the first published versions.

Sweets still arrive the same way as everywhere else

Strabane's claim to fame is printing, not confectionery — so pick 'n' mix, bulk bags and trade cases for the town come by delivery, the same as the rest of County Tyrone, Northern Ireland and the UK.

25,000+ customers, and counting

We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Strabane and the rest of Northern Ireland included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.

Frequently asked questions

Do you deliver sweets to Strabane?

Yes — the same as the rest of the UK, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.

What is Gray's Printing Press in Strabane?

A National Trust property where John Dunlap, later printer of the Declaration of Independence, learned his trade.

Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Strabane?

Yes — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Strabane addresses.

Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.

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