Hear the echoes of history. This magnificent bell before you is the American Legion Freedom Bell. A giant among bells it’s a 2:1 scale replica of the Liberty Bell. It’s a powerful symbol of American independence.
The American Legion gifted this bell to the nation’s youth in the 1970s. The initial plan was for children to donate pennies. These pennies would be melted down to create the bell. A truly sentimental idea but it didn’t happen. The Verdin Company of Cincinnati and the Petit & Fritsen bell foundry in the Netherlands crafted this impressive bronze masterpiece. They used an alloy of 80 percent copper and 20 percent tin.
The American Legion Freedom Bell is no ordinary bell. It weighs over eight tons. It stands nearly 7.5 feet tall and wide. A beautiful ironwork structure supports this giant. The structure includes post and beam support. It was created by Fred S Gichner Iron Works. Jack Patrick was the associate architect. Allen J Wright Associates contributed. Unlike the original Liberty Bell this one lacks a crack. It’s perfectly tuned to the key of F for freedom.
Its journey is as remarkable as its size. The American Legion Freedom Bell traveled across the 48 contiguous states. It journeyed on the American Freedom Train. This train was part of the Bicentennial celebrations. The bell shared its train car with a lunar rover. Millions saw it during its travels.
After the Bicentennial the bell sat in National Park Service storage. There were debates over its location. The American Legion wanted it on the National Mall. It eventually found its home at Union Station in 1981. Today it stands as a silent testament to American history and the American Legion’s dedication. The inscription echoes the Liberty Bell’s message “Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” The plaque at its base proudly states its gift from the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary.
The American Legion Freedom Bell is more than just a replica. It’s a symbol of American history. It’s a monument to the spirit of the Bicentennial. It silently stands. It reminds us to reflect on the journey of freedom and the dedication of those who fought for it. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty and its story.