Quick Facts and Secrets about Liberty Bell, Philadelphia

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Liberty Bell is one of the most prominent, famous and iconic symbols of America's struggle for Independence at the end of the 18th century. The Liberty Bell, often described as a national icon of liberty in the United States, is one of the most familiar symbols of abolition of slavery, nationhood, freedom and independence. The bell was previously known as the "State House Bell". However, the abolitionist societies adopted the bell as a symbol and dubbed it as the "Liberty Bell".

The Liberty Bell

http://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/

The bell, ordered by the Pennsylvania Assembly in 1751, was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London. Made up mostly tin and copper, the bell arrived in Philadelphia in September 1752.

The bell, weighing over 2000 pounds, was hung in the steeple of the Pennsylvania State House, now known as the Independence Hall, in March 1753 and it cracked the first time it rang. The bell was recast by John Pass and John Stow. However, it was recast again by Pass and Stow and was finally put up again on June 1753.

Founding of the Liberty Bell

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty_Bell#Founding_.281751.E2.80.931753.29

The bell was rung to summon people together for special announcements and events. According to historical evidences, the most resonating toll was on 8th July 1776 and it was rung to summon citizens to the public hearing of 'Declaration of Independence', read put by Colonel John Dixon. However, it had been previously rung to announce the opening of the First Continental Congress in 1774 and after the Battle of Lexington and Concord in 1775.

History of the Liberty Bell

http://www.essortment.com/all/libertybellhis_roub.htm

Today, the bell is housed at The Liberty Bell Center and is rung 13 times on every 4th of July in honor of the patriots from the original 13 states.

The Liberty Bell Center

http://www.visitphilly.com/history/philadelphia/the-liberty-bell-center/