The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) and the City of Philadelphia have unveiled 22 artist-designed fiberglass replica Liberty Bells to be installed in neighborhoods across the city, including several in the Northwest.
The ceremony was on Jan. 16 in the School District of Philadelphia’s warehouse in Olney, with Mayor Cherelle Parker in attendance alongside artists, stakeholders, and community members.
Each bell was designed by local artists in collaboration with Mural Arts Philadelphia to reflect the culture and identity of the community …
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The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) and the City of Philadelphia have unveiled 22 artist-designed fiberglass replica Liberty Bells to be installed in neighborhoods across the city, including several in the Northwest.
The ceremony was on Jan. 16 in the School District of Philadelphia’s warehouse in Olney, with Mayor Cherelle Parker in attendance alongside artists, stakeholders, and community members.
Each bell was designed by local artists in collaboration with Mural Arts Philadelphia to reflect the culture and identity of the community they represent. Philadelphia’s sculptures represent 20% of the total bells in the Bells Across PA initiative, a statewide public art program commemorating the country’s 250th anniversary with at least one installation in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.
At the ceremony, Parker gave an energetic speech highlighting Philadelphia’s prominent role in 2026 and emphasizing that every neighborhood in the city is vital to the 250th anniversary celebration.
“I want you to know that we are doing the work to make sure our front door is in its best shape, yes, but not just downtown and not just in Center City, but in neighborhoods across the city,” Parker said. “No matter where you are in the city, you should feel a part of this celebration. That’s why I’m excited that these bells are going to be placed prominently across the city, making it a celebration for everyone.”
Other speakers included Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA; Anne Ryan, deputy secretary of tourism for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation; and Jane Golden, founder and executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia.
After the speeches, artists took their places by their bells and unveiled their work as confetti cannons went off.
Northwest bells
In the Northwest, residents and visitors can expect to see bells in both Mt. Airy and Germantown. The Mt. Airy bell was created by Parris Stancell and is titled “A Tapestry of Hidden History.” It will be displayed at United Lutheran Seminary at 7301 Germantown Ave. The Germantown bell is the work of Emily Busch and is titled “Who’s Your North Star?” The Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library at 68 W. Chelten Ave. will host Busch’s bell.
Roxborough will also be home to a bell by Meghan Turbitt entitled “19128: A Place with Roots.” It will sit in Roxborough Pocket Park at 6170 Ridge Ave.
The sculptures will be installed in their public spaces in the spring and will be on display throughout the semiquincentennial celebration. Before installation, they will be coated with a protective sealant to guard them from the elements.
Maggie Dougherty can be reached at Margaret@chestnuthilllocal.com.
