The Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell, originally known as the State House bell, was likely one of many that rang out in celebration of the reading of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776. It bears a message used for centuries as an icon of abolition, women’s suffrage and civil rights efforts: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof.”

Today, visitors can see the Liberty Bell up close at the Liberty Bell Center, just steps from Independence Hall. Exhibits explore the bell’s history, its famous crack and its evolution into an enduring symbol of liberty, while offering views of the bell with Independence Hall as its historic backdrop.