North Carolina travelers who like to boast about their home state on their license plate now have a new option. The state Division of Motor Vehicles has introduced the new “First In Freedom” plate.

The plate is decorated with a quill pen and the dates of two memorable North Carolina events.

May 20 commemorates the 1775 Mecklenburg Declaration Of Independence, claimed as the first Colonial statement of separation from Great Britain.

The plate also notes the Halifax Resolves of April 12, 1776. That's the date 83 members of North Carolina's provincial Congress resolved to encourage a push for independence by all 13 colonies.

Both dates are also featured on North Carolina's official flag and seal.

The News and Observer reports some historians question the authenticity of the Mecklenburg Declaration.

But a little historic license plate fudging is nothing new for the state.

Some also question the “First In Flight” license plate commemoration, arguing that the first accomplishments in aviation actually happened in Ohio.

But no matter. Under legislation approved last year, DMV is giving North Carolinians a choice between the two slogans when they renew registration. 

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