Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is an historical American bell, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is historically important for chiming on July 8, 1776 to summon citizens for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The bell is 70% copper, 25% tin, and contains other trace metals. It has a 12 foot circumference.

The bell received its first crack the first time it was rung. It was originally cast in 1752 by Whitechapel Foundry, and was recast (as a result of the crack) the next year. It received its most famous crack in February 1846 when tolling for the birthday of George Washington.

The bell is inscribed: "Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof"

The bell is now based permanently in Philadelphia, though it has traveled and been displayed at a number of events, including many world's fairs.

See also