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| THE NEW LIBERTY BELL - Some time before the
opening of the Exposition, it was thought that the unique, popular
souvenir of the event should be prepared, and it was suggested that a
great bell be cast, material for which should, for the most part, be
furnished by people from all parts of the country. Contributions of
old coins, precious metal, medals and relics of Colonial and
Revolutionary days were called for, and in course of time these began
to arrive, and the bell was duly cast in a foundry at Troy, New York.
Besides the usual amount of bronze necessary for its proper
construction, all these relics were thrown into the castings. Since
these came from all over the United States, the new bell was as much,
or more, a national affair than Old Liberty itself. It began its
journey westward on the 4th of July, and did not reach Chicago until
September 2d., stops having been made in New York, Philadephia,
Wilmington, Washington, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Indianapolis. It
was transported upon a flat car, and on its arrival there were no
special ceremonies. It was placed on the Grand Plaza in front of the
west entrance to the Administration Building,
and many celebrations
by military and civic bodies were held around it, notably that of the
reunion of the G. A. R., on September 9th, when its tones were heard
for the first time in greeting to the veterans as they marched by.
It is much larger than the old bell, and is inscribed with mottoes of
similar import. |
