Liberty Bell Center: Viewing an Icon of America

Above are two view of the Liberty Bell. 

The Liberty Bell is the focus of this center that stretches along one side of an entire city block. The Liberty Bell Center, completed in 2003, also includes an exhibit focusing on the bell's origins and role as as icon of freedom.

The bell was cast in London, England in 1752 with the lettering "Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." After arriving in Philadelphia it cracked when it was first rung and was recast twice. By 1846 the thin crack began to affect the bell's sound when it rang for George Washington's birthday celebration. It cracked again and has not been rung since.

The composition of the bell is copper, tin and small amounts of lead, zinc, arsenic, gold and silver. It weighs about 2000 pounds.

The line for entry into the center can be long but it moves swiftly. The exhibit itself allows for time to leisurely learn about the bell. It's once you reach the the Liberty Bell itself is where the crowds pile up. It's only late October so I can only imagine how the National Park Rangers manages the crowds in summer.

You have to be quick if you want a chance for a clear view or photo of the bell. The two photos above were quickly taken in between people switching places to have their photo taken with the bell. For this reason it is really difficult to admire this historical icon. Visit nps.gov for more information; hours vary.

This piece in the exhibit has the word "liberty" written in various languages.

The Liberty Bell Center opened in 2003.

The center is simply designed with a long hallway with curving walls
on one side and on the other are various displays about the history and
 icon status of the Liberty Bell on the other side.

Entrance to the Liberty Bell Center. The line for entry winds to the left
of the main doors and along the building's east side.

The one story building at left along Independence Mall is the Liberty
Bell Center. The line for entry forms along this side of the building.