ALLENTOWN, PA. – May 7, 2026 − The Allentown Economic Development Corporation, ANIZDA, PPL, City Center, Coterra, the Downtown Allentown Alliance, the Office of Senator Nick Miller, America250PA Lehigh County, and America250PA celebrated the official unveiling of Pennsylvania’s newest Semiquincentennial Bell today at The Allentown Liberty Bell Semiquincentennial Site.
The site tells the compelling story of how the actual Liberty Bell was hidden in Allentown during the Revolutionary War, alongside narratives of local patriotism and its profound symbolism in various civil rights movements.
The event was the fourth in a series of commemorative bell installations across the Commonwealth, each recognizing a site of historical significance as Pennsylvania celebrates America’s 250th anniversary throughout 2026.
“The story of the Liberty Bell being safeguarded in Allentown during the Revolutionary War is a powerful reminder of the critical role our region played in protecting a symbol of American freedom during a defining moment in history. To honor that history and our country’s Semiquincentennial, I am proud to have helped lead the effort to bring this new Liberty Bell monument to downtown Allentown,” said Senator Miller. “This monument will not only preserve and celebrate that legacy for future generations, but also strengthen downtown Allentown as a destination for residents, visitors, and those seeking to connect with our rich history in the Lehigh Valley. I’m grateful to America250PA, ANIZDA, the City of Allentown, City Center, PPL, and Coterra for their partnership in delivering this important investment in our community.”
Modeled after the replica Liberty Bell donated by Queen Elizabeth II for America’s Bicentennial in 1976, each bronze Semiquincentennial Bell is a permanent public installation designed to invite reflection, pride, and connection to the Commonwealth’s diverse contributions to the American story.
The first bell was unveiled at The Dennis Farm in Susquehanna County in the summer of 2023, recognizing the legacy of free African Americans who established and sustained the oldest continuously Black-owned farm in the United States.
The second bell was unveiled at the Hawley Silk Mill in Wayne County in the fall of 2024, honoring the immigrant women and children who formed the foundation of Pennsylvania’s industrial workforce during the 19th century.
The third bell was unveiled at Camp Security in York County in the summer of 2025, reflecting how Revolutionary-era Pennsylvanians balanced security, survival and shared responsibility in uncertain times.
“This installation honors the spirit of hope in the face of adversity,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA. “It marks a turning point in our history and anchors that story in the heart of Lehigh County. It carries forward the legacy of those who lived, fought, and sometimes had to hide during a pivotal moment in human history—and reminds us that their resilience made this anniversary, and this country, possible.”
Also participating in the event were Former Governor & Honorary A250PA Co-Chair Mark Schweiker, Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk, Rev. Greg Edwards of the Resurrected Life Community Church, and Dr. James Higgins, Executive Director of the Lehigh County Historical Society.
The Semiquincentennial Bell project is part of America250PA’s broader preservation mission to ensure every Pennsylvanian sees themselves in the story of the Commonwealth and the nation it helped shape.
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About America250PA
The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the General Assembly and Governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania’s integral role in that event, and the impact of its people on the nation’s past, present, and future. The Commission is made up of current and past Pennsylvania leaders, celebrating the rich history and diversity of the state.
That shared history gives us context, pride, and perspective. America250PA is partnering with communities in all 67 counties so every Pennsylvanian can take part in this once-in-a-lifetime milestone and help shape what 2026 looks like across the Commonwealth. Our work is guided by four themes: Educate, Preserve, Innovate, and Celebrate.