Liberty Bell

In the heart of Portland, Oregon, nestled near the intersection of Southwest Fourth and Madison Street, stands a symbol of freedom and resilience—the Liberty Bell. This iconic bell is not just a piece of metal; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of liberty and a tribute to the veterans who have served the state. The Liberty Bell in Portland is a replica of the original Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, and it carries with it stories of hope, destruction, and rebirth.

The Journey of the Liberty Bell

The story of Portland's Liberty Bell begins in 1962 when the first replica was purchased for $8,000. Crafted at the renowned McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore, this bell was guaranteed against breakage for 25 years. However, its journey to Portland was not without incident. Upon arrival in June 1963, the bell was damaged at its base after slipping from its supports. Fortunately, the necessary repairs were made, and the bell was paraded through downtown Portland on a flatbed truck before being stored until Independence Day.

On July 4, 1964, the bell was publicly rung for the first time, marking a moment of celebration and national pride. It was then installed in the rotunda of the City Hall on May 5, 1964. The bell stood proudly, a symbol of liberty and freedom, until a fateful day in November 1970.

A Day of Destruction

On November 21, 1970, a bomb placed under the bell exploded, causing significant damage to the east portico of the City Hall. The explosion shattered windows, damaged columns, and destroyed the bell. Miraculously, no one was injured, but the blast left a lasting impact on the community. The crime remains unsolved to this day, with various speculations ranging from political terrorism to a prank gone wrong.

Rebirth and Resilience

Despite the destruction, the spirit of liberty could not be silenced. Private donations totaling $8,000 were quickly raised to purchase a new bell. The second replica, also crafted at the McShane Bell Foundry, was installed outside the east portico of the City Hall in 1972. This new bell was dedicated on November 6, 1975, and it stands as a gift from the people of Philadelphia to the schoolchildren of Portland. It also serves as a memorial to the veterans of Oregon, recognized by the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs.

A Closer Look at the Bell

The Liberty Bell in Portland is an impressive piece of craftsmanship. Weighing approximately 910 kilograms, it is made of Best Genuine Bell Metal, an alloy containing a minimum of 16% copper. The bell measures around 1.7 meters in height, width, and depth, and is mounted on a horizontal beam supported by two V-shaped brackets. The base, constructed from wood, metal, and bricks, provides a sturdy foundation for this symbol of liberty.

On the west side of the bell, the inscription Pass and Stow/Philada/MDCCLIII can be seen, a nod to the original Liberty Bell's makers and the year it was cast. The top of the bell bears the famous words from Leviticus 25:10, PROCLAIM LIBERTY THROUGHOUT ALL THE LAND UNTO ALL THE INHABITANTS THEREOF, along with a mention of its commission by the Assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania for the State House in Philadelphia. The foundry's mark is also present, adding to the bell's authenticity and historical significance.

A Symbol of Freedom

Today, the Liberty Bell in Portland is more than just a replica; it is an emblem of the city's resilience and commitment to freedom. It is included in various walking tour guides of Portland, inviting visitors to reflect on its history and significance. The bell's presence outside the City Hall serves as a constant reminder of the values of liberty and justice, and it stands in silent tribute to those who have fought for these ideals.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual tourist, a visit to the Liberty Bell in Portland offers a moment of reflection and appreciation for the enduring spirit of freedom. As you stand before this majestic bell, take a moment to listen to the echoes of the past and the promises of the future, all encapsulated in this timeless symbol of liberty.