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The '''Liberty Bell''' is an iconic symbol of American independence located at the Liberty Bell Center in [[Independence National Historical Park]], [[Philadelphia]]. Originally commissioned to hang in the Pennsylvania State House (now [[Independence Hall]]), the bell is famous for the large crack running through it and the inscription "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof" from the Book of Leviticus. The Liberty Bell has become one of the most recognized symbols of freedom in the world and is Philadelphia's most visited attraction, drawing over 2 million visitors annually.<ref name="nps-bell">{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm |title=The Liberty Bell |publisher=National Park Service |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
{{Infobox LocalBusiness
| name = Liberty Bell
| type = Historic artifact
| address = 526 Market Street (Liberty Bell Center)
| neighborhood = Old City
| phone = (215) 965-2305
| website = https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm
| established = 1752 (cast); 2003 (current location)
| hours = Daily 9am-5pm
| public_transit = 5th Street Station (MFL)
}}


Admission to see the Liberty Bell is '''free'''. The bell is housed in the Liberty Bell Center, a glass-walled pavilion on Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets, directly across from Independence Hall. Visitors can view the bell up close and learn about its history through exhibits in the center.
The '''Liberty Bell''' is an iconic symbol of American independence, housed in the [[Liberty Bell Center]] in [[Old City]], Philadelphia. Cast in 1752 and famously cracked, the bell became a symbol of liberty in the 19th century and remains one of America's most visited historical objects.<ref name="bell">{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm |title=Liberty Bell |publisher=National Park Service |access-date=December 23, 2025}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
Line 7: Line 17:
=== Origins ===
=== Origins ===


The Liberty Bell was commissioned in '''1751''' by the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly to hang in the new State House (now [[Independence Hall]]). The Assembly ordered the bell from the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London, one of England's most respected bell makers.
* '''1751''' — Pennsylvania Assembly ordered bell from London
 
* '''1752''' — Bell arrived, cracked during testing
The bell arrived in Philadelphia in '''1752''' and was inscribed with the biblical verse from Leviticus 25:10: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof." This verse was chosen to commemorate the 50th anniversary of William Penn's 1701 Charter of Privileges, which granted religious freedom and democratic governance to Pennsylvania's colonists.<ref name="ushistory">{{cite web |url=https://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/index.html |title=The Liberty Bell |publisher=Independence Hall Association |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
* '''1753''' — Recast twice by local founders Pass and Stow
 
* Hung in Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall)
=== The First Crack ===
* Inscription: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land"
 
When the bell was first tested in Philadelphia in '''March 1753''', it cracked on the first stroke. Local metalworkers '''John Pass''' and '''John Stow''' were hired to recast the bell. They melted it down and recast it with additional copper to make it less brittle.
 
The recast bell was hung in the State House steeple in '''June 1753'''. Pass and Stow's names and the date "MDCCLIII" (1753) are cast into the bell, along with the original inscription.
 
=== Revolutionary Era ===
 
During the Revolutionary War, the bell was used to summon citizens and legislators to public meetings and announcements. It rang to mark significant events, including:
 
* Reading of the Declaration of Independence (July 8, 1776)
* Battles and victories during the Revolutionary War
* Deaths of prominent figures
* Proclamations and public gatherings
 
When British forces approached Philadelphia in '''1777''', the bell was removed and hidden in Allentown, Pennsylvania, beneath the floorboards of Zion Reformed Church to prevent British soldiers from melting it for ammunition. It was returned to Philadelphia in 1778 after the British evacuation.
 
=== The Famous Crack ===


The origins of the Liberty Bell's famous crack are somewhat uncertain. Historical records suggest the bell developed a thin crack sometime in the early 19th century.
=== The Crack ===


The crack became unmistakable in '''February 1846''' when the bell was rung to celebrate George Washington's birthday. The crack widened significantly during the ringing, rendering the bell unringable. Attempts to repair the crack by drilling along its length to prevent further spread were unsuccessful.
The bell's famous crack:


The bell has not been rung since 1846, though it is occasionally tapped for ceremonial purposes.
* Bell cracked sometime in early 19th century (exact date disputed)
* Final crack appeared 1846 while ringing for George Washington's birthday celebration
* The crack made the bell unringable
* Multiple repair attempts failed
* The crack became part of its identity


=== Symbol of Freedom ===
=== Adoption as Symbol ===


The bell was not widely known as the "Liberty Bell" until the '''1830s''', when abolitionists adopted it as a symbol of their movement. The inscription about proclaiming liberty "unto all the inhabitants" resonated with those fighting to end slavery.
The bell was not called "Liberty Bell" until the 1830s:


The name "Liberty Bell" first appeared in an 1835 anti-slavery publication. Abolitionists used the bell's image in pamphlets and publications, transforming it from a local historical artifact into a national symbol of freedom.
* '''Abolitionists''' — Adopted the bell as anti-slavery symbol
* The inscription ("Proclaim Liberty") resonated
* Traveled the country for expositions (1885-1915)
* Became national symbol of freedom
* Now permanently in Philadelphia


Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the bell traveled across the country by train for exhibitions, further cementing its status as a national icon. These tours ended in 1915 due to concerns about damage from travel.
== The Liberty Bell Center ==


== Visiting the Liberty Bell ==
=== The Building ===


=== Admission and Tickets ===
The Liberty Bell Center opened in 2003:


'''Admission is free.''' No tickets are required during most times. However, during peak season (generally March through December), timed entry tickets may be required to manage crowds.
* Designed specifically for the bell
* Located across from [[Independence Hall]]
* Views of Independence Hall through glass
* Free admission, no timed tickets
* Exhibits on the bell's history


'''Timed Entry Tickets:'''
=== Viewing the Bell ===
* Free tickets can be reserved online through the National Park Service website
* Same-day tickets may be available at the Independence Visitor Center
* Tickets are not required during low-visitation periods


We recommend arriving early, especially during summer months and holiday weekends, to avoid long lines.
* Walk through exhibits about the bell's history
* Approach the bell at the center's end
* Photography permitted
* Touchable replica outside for the visually impaired
* No touching the actual bell


=== Hours of Operation ===
== The Inscription ==


The Liberty Bell Center is open daily with seasonal hours:<ref name="nps-hours">{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/hours.htm |title=Operating Hours & Seasons |publisher=National Park Service |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
The bell's inscription reads:


'''Standard Hours:'''
<blockquote>
* 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
"Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof" — Leviticus 25:10
</blockquote>


'''Extended Summer Hours (Memorial Day through Labor Day):'''
* Originally referenced the 50th anniversary of Penn's Charter
* 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
* Later interpreted as call for freedom
* Resonated with abolitionists and civil rights movements


The Liberty Bell Center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
== Visiting ==


=== Security Screening ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Detail !! Information
|-
| '''Hours''' || Daily 9am-5pm
|-
| '''Admission''' || Free
|-
| '''Tickets''' || None required
|-
| '''Time needed''' || 20-30 minutes
|-
| '''Security''' || Screening required
|}


All visitors must pass through a security screening before entering the Liberty Bell Center. This includes:
=== Tips ===
* Walking through a metal detector
* Having bags screened by X-ray


The security checkpoint is located at the entrance on Chestnut Street. During busy periods, security screening can add 15-30 minutes to your visit.
* No tickets needed—walk up during operating hours
 
* Lines can be long during peak season
=== Location ===
* Morning visits tend to be less crowded
 
* Security screening at entrance
'''Liberty Bell Center'''
* Combine with [[Independence Hall]] (across the street)
526 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
 
The Liberty Bell Center is located on Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets, directly across from [[Independence Hall]] in [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]].
 
The glass-walled building allows views of both the Liberty Bell inside and Independence Hall behind it, creating an iconic photo opportunity.
 
== What to See ==
 
=== The Bell ===
 
Visitors can view the Liberty Bell up close inside the climate-controlled Liberty Bell Center. The bell sits on a special mount that allows viewing from all angles.
 
'''Bell Statistics:'''
* Weight: 2,080 pounds
* Circumference: 12 feet at the lip
* Height: 3 feet from lip to crown
* Composition: Copper (70%), tin (25%), and trace amounts of lead, zinc, arsenic, gold, and silver
* Inscription: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof"
 
=== Exhibits ===
 
The Liberty Bell Center includes exhibits documenting:
 
* The bell's creation and early history
* Its role in the Revolutionary era
* The adoption by abolitionists and civil rights movements
* The bell's travels across America
* Stories of people who have been inspired by the bell
 
The exhibits are designed to take 15-30 minutes to view before reaching the bell itself.
 
=== Photography ===
 
Photography is permitted inside the Liberty Bell Center. The glass walls and interior lighting are designed to facilitate good photographs of the bell with Independence Hall visible in the background.
 
Tripods are generally not permitted during peak hours.


== Getting There ==
== Getting There ==


=== Public Transit ===
* '''SEPTA Subway''' — 5th Street Independence Hall Station (Market-Frankford Line)
* '''Walking''' — On Market Street between 5th and 6th
* '''Near''' — Independence Hall, Independence Visitor Center


The Liberty Bell Center is easily accessible by [[SEPTA]] public transit:
== Frequently Asked Questions ==


'''Subway'''
{{FAQ
* '''Market-Frankford Line (The L):''' 5th Street/Independence Hall Station (directly adjacent)
|q1=How did the Liberty Bell crack?
* '''Broad Street Line (The B):''' City Hall Station, then transfer to MFL
|a1=The exact timing is disputed, but the bell cracked sometime in the early 19th century. The final, irreparable crack appeared in 1846 while ringing for a George Washington birthday celebration. Multiple repair attempts failed, and the bell has not been rung since.


'''Bus Routes'''
|q2=Do you need tickets to see the Liberty Bell?
* SEPTA bus routes 17, 21, 33, 38, 42, 44, and 48 stop nearby
|a2=No, the Liberty Bell Center is free and does not require timed tickets. You can walk up during operating hours (9am-5pm daily). There is security screening at the entrance, and lines can be long during peak tourist season.


'''Regional Rail'''
|q3=Why is the Liberty Bell important?
* Jefferson Station (4 blocks north)
|a3=The Liberty Bell became a symbol of American freedom, particularly for abolitionists in the 1830s who adopted its "Proclaim Liberty" inscription as an anti-slavery message. It has since become one of America's most recognizable symbols of liberty and independence.
* Suburban Station (6 blocks west)


=== Parking ===
|q4=Can you touch the Liberty Bell?
 
|a4=No, you cannot touch the actual Liberty Bell. There is a touchable replica outside the Liberty Bell Center designed for visually impaired visitors. Inside, you can view the bell closely and take photographs.
Limited parking is available in the Independence Mall area:
}}
 
* '''Independence Visitor Center Parking''' - Autopark at Independence Mall, 6th Street between Race and Arch
* '''On-street metered parking''' - Very limited, 2-hour maximum
* '''Private garages''' - Several within walking distance
 
Public transit is strongly recommended. The area is highly walkable from Center City hotels.
 
=== Independence Visitor Center ===
 
Stop at the '''Independence Visitor Center''' (6th and Market Streets) before visiting the Liberty Bell to:
 
* Pick up free timed-entry tickets if required
* Get maps and information about Independence National Historical Park
* Watch the orientation film about Independence Hall
* Use restrooms and purchase refreshments
 
The Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (extended hours in summer).
 
== Nearby Attractions ==
 
The Liberty Bell is located within Independence National Historical Park, which includes several other significant sites within walking distance:
 
* '''[[Independence Hall]]''' - Where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed (directly across the street)
* '''Congress Hall''' - Where Congress met from 1790-1800
* '''Old City Hall''' - Home of the Supreme Court 1791-1800
* '''Carpenters' Hall''' - Site of the First Continental Congress
* '''Benjamin Franklin's Grave''' - Christ Church Burial Ground (2 blocks)
* '''Betsy Ross House''' - Historic home (4 blocks)
* '''National Constitution Center''' - Interactive museum (3 blocks)
* '''Museum of the American Revolution''' - Revolutionary War history (2 blocks)
 
We recommend allowing at least half a day to explore the Independence Mall area.
 
== Tips for Visiting ==
 
=== Best Times to Visit ===
 
* '''Weekday mornings''' - Shortest lines, typically
* '''Off-season (January-February)''' - Fewer crowds
* '''Early morning''' - Lines are shortest right when doors open
 
=== Avoiding Crowds ===
 
* Reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance during peak season
* Arrive at opening time
* Visit on weekdays rather than weekends
* Avoid holiday weekends and summer peak season if possible
 
=== Accessibility ===
 
The Liberty Bell Center is fully accessible:
* Wheelchair accessible entrance and viewing areas
* ASL interpretation available with advance notice
* Audio description available
* Large-print materials available
 
== Common Questions ==
 
=== Can you touch the Liberty Bell? ===
 
No. Touching the Liberty Bell is not permitted. The bell is protected by barriers, though visitors can get very close to view it.
 
=== Why did the bell crack? ===
 
The bell cracked due to metal fatigue, likely caused by repeated striking over many years. The composition of the bell (particularly the high copper content) made it prone to cracking. The famous large crack appeared in 1846 when the bell was rung for Washington's Birthday celebration.
 
=== Does the bell still ring? ===
 
The bell is no longer rung due to the crack, which could worsen if the bell vibrated. However, the bell is occasionally tapped gently for ceremonial purposes, such as on Independence Day.
 
=== Is the Liberty Bell the original? ===
 
The current Liberty Bell is technically the '''second''' version. The original bell from London cracked on first testing in 1753. Local metalworkers John Pass and John Stow recast the bell, and that recast version is what we see today.


== See Also ==
== See Also ==


* [[Independence Hall]]
* [[Independence Hall]]
* [[Old City]]
* [[Independence National Historical Park]]
* [[Independence National Historical Park]]
* [[Old City, Philadelphia]]
* [[Franklin Court]]
* [[Philadelphia history]]
* [[Benjamin Franklin]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 226: Line 135:


* [https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm National Park Service - Liberty Bell]
* [https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm National Park Service - Liberty Bell]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/liberty-bell-center/ Visit Philadelphia Guide]
* [https://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/ Independence Hall Association - Liberty Bell]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Liberty Bell - Complete Visitor Guide to Philadelphia's Most Famous Landmark
|title=Liberty Bell - America's Iconic Symbol of Freedom in Philadelphia
|description=Free admission guide to the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. Hours, tickets, history of the famous crack, location at Independence Mall, and tips for visiting this American icon.
|description=The Liberty Bell, with its famous crack, is displayed free at the Liberty Bell Center in Old City Philadelphia. No tickets required to see this symbol of American liberty.
|keywords=Liberty Bell Philadelphia, Liberty Bell Center, Liberty Bell crack, Liberty Bell history, Independence Hall Liberty Bell, free Liberty Bell tickets, visiting Liberty Bell
|keywords=Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Philadelphia, Old City, American Revolution, Proclaim Liberty, National Park Service, cracked bell
|type=Article
|type=Article
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}}
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[[Category:Historic Sites]]
[[Category:Historic Sites]]
[[Category:Old City]]
[[Category:Old City]]
[[Category:Independence National Historical Park]]
[[Category:American Revolution]]
[[Category:Attractions]]
[[Category:Free Attractions]]

Revision as of 04:09, 24 December 2025

Liberty Bell



TypeHistoric artifact
Address526 Market Street (Liberty Bell Center)
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodOld City
Phone(215) 965-2305
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1752 (cast); 2003 (current location)
HoursDaily 9am-5pm
Liberty Bell(215) 965-2305526 Market Street (Liberty Bell Center)PhiladelphiaPAUS

The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence, housed in the Liberty Bell Center in Old City, Philadelphia. Cast in 1752 and famously cracked, the bell became a symbol of liberty in the 19th century and remains one of America's most visited historical objects.[1]

History

Origins

  • 1751 — Pennsylvania Assembly ordered bell from London
  • 1752 — Bell arrived, cracked during testing
  • 1753 — Recast twice by local founders Pass and Stow
  • Hung in Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall)
  • Inscription: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land"

The Crack

The bell's famous crack:

  • Bell cracked sometime in early 19th century (exact date disputed)
  • Final crack appeared 1846 while ringing for George Washington's birthday celebration
  • The crack made the bell unringable
  • Multiple repair attempts failed
  • The crack became part of its identity

Adoption as Symbol

The bell was not called "Liberty Bell" until the 1830s:

  • Abolitionists — Adopted the bell as anti-slavery symbol
  • The inscription ("Proclaim Liberty") resonated
  • Traveled the country for expositions (1885-1915)
  • Became national symbol of freedom
  • Now permanently in Philadelphia

The Liberty Bell Center

The Building

The Liberty Bell Center opened in 2003:

  • Designed specifically for the bell
  • Located across from Independence Hall
  • Views of Independence Hall through glass
  • Free admission, no timed tickets
  • Exhibits on the bell's history

Viewing the Bell

  • Walk through exhibits about the bell's history
  • Approach the bell at the center's end
  • Photography permitted
  • Touchable replica outside for the visually impaired
  • No touching the actual bell

The Inscription

The bell's inscription reads:

"Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof" — Leviticus 25:10

  • Originally referenced the 50th anniversary of Penn's Charter
  • Later interpreted as call for freedom
  • Resonated with abolitionists and civil rights movements

Visiting

Detail Information
Hours Daily 9am-5pm
Admission Free
Tickets None required
Time needed 20-30 minutes
Security Screening required

Tips

  • No tickets needed—walk up during operating hours
  • Lines can be long during peak season
  • Morning visits tend to be less crowded
  • Security screening at entrance
  • Combine with Independence Hall (across the street)

Getting There

  • SEPTA Subway — 5th Street Independence Hall Station (Market-Frankford Line)
  • Walking — On Market Street between 5th and 6th
  • Near — Independence Hall, Independence Visitor Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Template:FAQ

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "Liberty Bell". National Park Service. Retrieved December 23, 2025
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