Liberty Bell Picture

The Liberty Bell is known by Americans as a symbol of freedom. The original bell is located in Philadelphia, and is one of the nation's most famous symbols.

A bell for the Pennsylvania State House was cast in London, England, however, it cracked soon after it arrived in Philadelphia. Local craftsmen John Pass and John Stow cast a new bell in 1753, using metal from the English bell. Their names appear on the front of the bell, along with the city and the date.

By 1846 a thin crack began to affect the sound of the bell. The bell was repaired in 1846 and rang for a George Washington birthday celebration, but the bell cracked again and has not been rung since.

On the Fourth of July every year, descendants of those that signed the Declaration of Independence will tap the bell 13 times as other bells all over the country ring 13 times in honor of the 13 original states.

The Liberty Bell can be found at Liberty Bell Center, which opened in 2003. The Liberty Bell Center is located across the street from Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Open: All year long, but hours vary by season. Closed on major holidays.

Admission: Free

Liberty Bell Address:

   501 Market Street
   Philadelphia, PA 19106